Aurora combines rocket propulsion with traditional aviation features, enabling takeoff from conventional runways and offering unmatched speed and altitude capabilities. The aircraft is designed for horizontal takeoff and landing, rapid refuelling, and multiple daily flights, significantly reducing operational costs.
“For the first time, customers have the opportunity to own an aircraft capable of reaching the edge of space,” said Stefan Powell, CEO of Dawn Aerospace. “Aurora is a game-changing platform for governments, spaceports, and new spaceplane operators to access extreme altitudes and deliver vital services and programs.”
The spaceplane introduces an airline-style business model, allowing operators to purchase and operate Aurora independently of the manufacturer. Dawn Aerospace is engaging with early adopters across the research, commercial, and government sectors to coordinate the first deliveries.
In its 57th flight in November 2024, Aurora reached supersonic speeds of Mach 1.12 and an altitude of 82,500 feet (25.1 km), setting a record for the fastest climb from runway to above 20 km, surpassing a 50-year-old benchmark held by the modified F-15 Streak Eagle. The spaceplane is engineered for missions in defence, surveillance, hypersonics, maritime patrol, and scientific research.
Aurora provides up to three minutes of microgravity, supporting advances in life sciences, including space health and regenerative medicine, and semiconductor testing under near-space conditions. The vehicle’s specifications include a top speed of Mach 3.5, maximum altitude of 100 km, payload capacity of 10 kg, and a turnaround time of under four hours.
According to Dawn Aerospace, Aurora will enable routine, flexible, and cost-effective access to space from airfields around the world. “It’s been over a century since commercial airlines began—now it’s time to launch the first spaceline,” said Powell.
