Astro Mechanica (YC W24) reposted this
Astro Mechanica (YC W24) has invented a new type of jet engine that is efficient at every speed: the Electric Adaptive Engine. It’s not only more fuel efficient than modern jet engines, but also 3x faster. Because of its efficiency across all speeds, it can be used for different ways. It can send payloads to orbit at a cost three times lower than traditional rocket systems, or power passenger aircraft that travel three times faster than conventional airliners. Founded by Ian Brooke, Astro Mechanica achieved rapid development by using electric motors in the compressor, enabling variable speeds to match airspeed and combustion cycles, crafting a proof-of-concept engine in just two months—a process that typically takes a year in the aerospace sector. With $500k in off-the-shelf hardware, they completed their first flight engine in three months. The next phase involves constructing an airframe within 6-8 months, aiming for a supersonic flight demonstration in 2025. Congrats on the launch, Ian!