Archmage

?#Launcher | Archmage

Archmage is a 2 stage methane launch vehicle which comprises of nine methalox engines that generate more than 1,856kn at liftoff. Archmage can lift nearly 17,700kg (17.7t) to Low-Droo Orbit and 7,600kg (7.6t) to a Geostationary Transfer Orbit.

Archmage's first stage incorporates 9 AE-1 engines across a single aluminum-lithium alloy rocket core containing Liquid Oxygen (LOX) and Liquid Methane (CH4) in a mix called Methalox.

The rocket is equipped with 4 ring tall interstage structure that connects the center core on the first stage and second stages and holds the release and separation system.

Archmage draws upon a proven and reliable design, which minimizes stage separation events and maximizes reliability. The second-stage AE Vac Engine delivers the rocket’s payload to orbit after the main engines cut off and the first-stage cores separate, with the second stage fairing made of a carbon composite material, the fairing protects satellites on their way to orbit.

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First Flight

On January 15th 2025, ASX Space launched the Archmage rocket for the first time from Sounding Pad 1, and while it managed to reach Max-Q, it didn't get to separate as it blew up mid way, the cause of it was due to a coding flaw and residual thrust that occurred, and while Archmage didn't get to reach orbit, it proves that ASX is capable of launching rockets to space and with experience gained, we took those lessons learned and applied them to our new rocket Epsilon.

Using a sophisticated development approach, Archmage showcased our capability to simultaneously develop novel technologies while planning and executing the development, testing, and operation of a launch vehicle of comparable complexity to larger orbital rockets. Building on the success of the Archmage program, we’re accelerating our focus on Epsilon, our medium-to-heavy lift rocket. Epsilon will offer customers a launch vehicle capable of missions from Droo, to any orbit around it.

Watch the replay of the launch here

Enjoy

Credits go to Edduadro as he is the original designer of this craft

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