Taiwan's central News Agency reported on the test of a hybrid HTTP-3A rocket designed to launch mini-satellites into orbit, TASS reports.
The country is developing a rocket with a height of 4.8 meters and a mass of 365 kilograms independently. The purpose of the tests was to check the operation of the second propulsion system.
It was assumed that HTTP-3A would be able to reach a height of 12 kilometers and parachute into the sea. The launch took place from the launch pad in the southern Pingdong County. It was not possible to achieve the fully set goal. The rocket stayed in the air not 8-10, but two minutes, and rose only three kilometers.
However, the developers from the Center for Advanced Rocket Research (ARRC) even called this launch a technological breakthrough and a great success. The results of parallel tests allow them to say so. Together with the engine, the rocket's flight control system, ground support and a parachute return system were tested.
The goal of the HTTP-3A program is to develop a rocket with a hybrid engine that can put mini-satellites into orbit at least 100 kilometers high.