Aerospace

Boeing to partner with GE and NASA on hybrid electric flight project

NASA and GE aviation established a new partnership in October to develop a mega-watt class hybrid electric engine capable of powering a single aisle aircraft and the project has moved a step closer. Boeing has been chosen by GE aviation to modify the plane that will be used to test the propulsion system in air.

Naveed Hussain, Boeing’s chief technology officer and vice president and general manager of Boeing research and technology said “we’re pleased to contribute our extensive research and testing of hybrid electric propulsion systems … for a project that will no doubt be an important milestone on the path to more sustainable air travel”

GE’s foray into electric flying isn’t limited to the NASA’s project. Electrical systems were developed by GE for Boeing’s 787 and 777X passenger aircrafts, among other planes. GE Research scientists are also collaborating with the Advanced Research Projects Agency–Energy (ARPA-E) branch of the US Department of Energy to develop an electric-powered aircraft propulsion system.

The idea behind that system is to combine gasified biofuel and compressed air to generate electricity and heat, with the electricity spinning the engine fan and the heat exhaust being used to provide more propulsion, similar to how a combined-cycle power plant uses exhaust. The goal is to develop a system that is both powerful and light enough to keep a 175,000-pound commercial aeroplane and its 175 passengers airborne at all times.

GE is committed to decarbonizing flying, having pledged to become carbon neutral in its own operations by 2030 and then announcing a goal of becoming net zero by 2050.

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Aerospace

Boeing Transfers Rocket Stage to NASA, Paving Way for Human Moon Mission

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Boeing has achieved a significant milestone by providing NASA with the second core stage of the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket.

This crucial component, crafted at NASA’s Michoud Assembly Facility (MAF), is set to propel the Artemis II crew into lunar orbit, marking humanity’s return to deep space after a 50-year hiatus.

The monumental Boeing-built rocket stage, the largest element of the Artemis II mission, will embark on a journey aboard the Pegasus barge, traveling 900 miles to NASA’s Kennedy Space Center.

Comparison of two legendary aircraft B777x vs B747 aircraft:Click here

Upon arrival, it will be meticulously integrated with other essential Artemis II components, including the upper stage, solid rocket boosters, and NASA’s Orion spacecraft within the iconic Vehicle Assembly Building. This intricate integration process is a vital step toward the eagerly anticipated Artemis II launch, slated for 2025.

“Boeing-built products helped land humankind on the moon in 1969, and we’re proud to continue that legacy through the Artemis generation,” remarked Dave Dutcher, vice president and program manager for Boeing’s SLS program. “Together, with NASA and our industry partners and suppliers, we are building the world’s most capable rocket and paving the way to deep space through America’s rocket factory in New Orleans.”

NASA, Lockheed Martin Reveal X-59 Quiet Supersonic Aircraft:Click here

The delivery of Core Stage 2 marks a significant achievement in the evolution of the SLS rocket. Towering over 200 feet and powered by four RS-25 engines, this core stage, coupled with two solid-fueled booster rockets, will generate a staggering 8.8 million pounds of thrust. This immense power is crucial to launching Artemis II and future missions into the vast expanse of space.

The SLS rocket stands unparalleled in its capability to transport both crew and substantial cargo to the moon and beyond in a single launch. Its extraordinary capacity will facilitate the delivery of human-rated spacecraft, habitats, and scientific missions to destinations including the moon and Mars, ushering in a new era of space exploration.