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Summary of our SALTO work presented at the “Development Trends in Space Propulsion Systems” Conference

BySpaceForest
PhD Adam Matusiewicz presenting the SALTO project at SpaceTrends 2024 conference.
PhD Adam Matusiewicz delivering a presentation on the SALTO project during the SpaceTrends 2024 conference.

The progress of our work on the European rocket as part of the SALTO project was the subject of PhD Adam Matusiewicz’s presentation during the 13th International Scientific Conference “Development Trends in Space Propulsion Systems“, held on December 5-6, 2024, in Warsaw.

In the SALTO project, SpaceForest is responsible for the critical FLIP maneuver – flipping the rocket and preparing it for controlled landing. This is one of the key steps in the development of reusable rocket technology in Europe.

During the conference, we also showcased some of our technical achievements, including the oxidizer tank, which successfully passed a burst test thanks to our Filament Winding technology and advanced composite solutions. The result? Instead of bursting – only a leak caused by internal liner damage at a pressure as high as 250 bar!

Tank test for the SALTO project, durability: 250 bar

SpaceForest SALTO project tank under 250 bar pressure – showcasing cutting-edge composite technology and durability.
A view of the SpaceForest SALTO project tank undergoing a 250 bar durability test, highlighting advanced composite materials and SpaceForest’s engineering expertise.

The oxidizer tank developed for the SALTO project showcases SpaceForest’s advanced engineering and composite technology. During rigorous testing, the tank demonstrated its exceptional durability by withstanding pressures up to 250 bar with only minimal damage to the internal liner. This achievement highlights our commitment to creating reliable and efficient components for reusable rocket systems. Watch the video below to see the tank in action (the video is slowed down by three times to highlight the critical moment)!

Watch the test of the SALTO project tank under 250 bar pressure – showcasing SpaceForest’s cutting-edge composite technology.

Additionally, we presented a completed combustion chamber – a technology already known and tested on our largest rocket engine, SF-1000. More details? Unfortunately, they’re classified… strictly confidential! 😉

Combustion Chamber for SALTO project

Combustion chamber demo for the SALTO project.
The combustion chamber demo for the SALTO project, showcasing SpaceForest’s advanced composite technologies.

About the “Development Trends in Space Propulsion Systems” Conference

The conference gathered over 130 participants from 16 countries, becoming an excellent platform for exchanging knowledge and experiences on ecological propulsion systems and technological innovations in the space sector.

PhD Adam Matusiewicz presenting the SALTO project at SpaceTrends 2024 conference, with the audience prominently visible in the background.
PhD Adam Matusiewicz presenting the SALTO project during the SpaceTrends 2024 conference, with the audience clearly visible in the foreground.

We would like to extend our gratitude to the organizers: Łukasiewicz Research Network – Institute of Aviation, Polish Academy of Sciences and Warsaw University of Technology for professionally preparing this inspiring event.

We are thrilled to have shared our achievements and actively contributed to international discussions about the future of space technologies.

SpaceTrends 2024 conference summary: https://spacetrends.pl/space-trends-2024-summary

Thank you for the inspiring conversations, and see you at future events! 🚀

Photos courtesy of: spacetrends.pl


For more information on SpaceForest’s offerings, including Launch Services (Perun Rocket System), Propulsion Systems, Tracking, Telemetry and Telecommand Systems for Flying Vehicles, Composites, Multifunctional Filament Winding Machines, and Custom Services, visit SpaceForest Rocket Technologies.

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