The British Skylon single-stage-to-orbit space plane would take off from a runway and fly on air-breathing hydrogen-fueled rocket engines for much of its ascent through the atmosphere. When the air becomes too thin, Skylon switches to onboard liquid oxygen.
Watch Our Skylon Space Plane Video Show
Skylon's payload bay carries both passengers and cargo, although the craft itself is controlled remotely and has no onboard pilots.
Crew: None (remotely controlled from the ground)
Passengers: None (up to 30 in optional passenger module)
Payload: 33,000 lbs. (15,000 kilograms)
Length: 273 feet (83 meters)
Wingspan: 88 feet (26.8 m)
Loaded weight: 717,000 lbs. (325,000 kg)
Maximum speed: air-breathing Mach 5.14, rocket Mach 27.8
Orbital altitude: 373 miles (600 kilometers)
The Skylon Space Plane in Pictures
The Skylon Personnel / Logistics Module (SPLM) could be installed in Skylon's cargo bay for carrying a combination of passengers and supplies to orbital stations. If carrying passengers only, it could support up to 30 people.
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