Firefly Aerospace Expands Capabilities with Innovative Composite Technology

Firefly Aerospace, a leader in end-to-end responsive space services, has been awarded a contract from the Air Force Research Laboratory to develop a ceramic matrix composite (CMC) nozzle extension for liquid rocket engines. The new material is expected to reduce mass by more than 50% and lower production costs compared to industry standard metal-based nozzle extensions. Firefly plans to utilize the composite nozzle extension fabrication methods for its second stage engines, which power its Alpha rocket and Medium Launch Vehicle. The company’s expertise in composite manufacturing and liquid rocket engines positions it well for future responsive space applications. This development was first reported by Firefly Aerospace.