Radian Aerospace completes ground tests of prototype space plane

Radian Aerospace has successfully completed ground tests of its prototype space plane, PFV01, in Abu Dhabi, moving closer to achieving a reusable space plane that can take off and land like a conventional aircraft.

The 15-foot-long sub-scale prototype performed short hops on the runway, gathering crucial data to inform the design and flight control systems of the final Radian One space plane.

The vehicle, which could revolutionize space travel by eliminating the need for launch vehicles, is expected to start full-scale flights by 2028. Radian has raised $27.5 million to date.