Next Gen Rocket Engine Merlin 1D of SpaceX Achieves Flight Qualification

The next generation of SpaceX's main rocket engine, Merlin 1D, is now qualified to be used in regular Falcon 9 launches after completing a 28 test qualification program, the company announced recently. The test procedures took place at SpaceX's rocket development facility in McGregor, Texas.

The new engine will be regularly used now in the main, or first, stage of the Falcon 9 which is the two stage, liquid oxygen and rocket grade kerosene (RP-1) powered launch vehicle made by the company.

"The Merlin 1D successfully performed every test throughout this extremely rigorous qualification program. With flight qualification now complete, we look forward to flying the first Merlin 1D engines on Falcon 9's Flight 6 this year," said Elon Musk, SpaceX CEO and chief designer in a statement released by the company.

The Falcon 9 has until now been powered using Merlin C engines. The new Merlin D engines will provide significant more thrust to the launch vehicle. The engine is also used in the prototype of the company's reusable launch system called The Grasshopper.

The design goals for the new engine design included increased reliability (increased fatigue life and increased chamber and nozzle thermal margins), improved performance (thrust design objective 140,000 pounds-force (620 kN) and 70-100 percent throttle capability), and improved manufacturability (lower parts count and fewer labor hours). The engine's 150:1 thrust-to-weight ratio delivers excellent efficiency.

"The Merlin 1D has a vacuum thrust-to-weight ratio exceeding 150, the best of any liquid rocket engine in history. This enhanced design makes the Merlin 1D the most efficient booster engine ever built, while still maintaining the structural and thermal safety margins needed to carry astronauts," the company said.