Rocket ignitions are usually captivating, but observing them with the naked eye can be difficult for apparent motives. The intense temperatures and blinding brightness make it not possible to be close to them. Luckily, higher-speed video technologies enables curious men and women to witness the intricate, gorgeous, and potentially frightening procedure of rocket ignition.

The Slow Mo Guys, a well known YouTube channel specializing in slow-motion videos, not too long ago had the chance to capture a test ignition of Firefly Aerospace’s Reaver engine. In contrast to their preceding projects, this endeavor necessary in depth preparing. With rockets consuming massive amounts of fuel and sources, the group only had one particular likelihood to film the ignition. On top of that, they had to very carefully position and rig the camera to guarantee the security of everybody involved. An enclosure capable of withstanding the intense heat and vibrations was specially made to home their slow-motion camera. To deal with the brightness of the explosion, the gear had to be calibrated, and the film was intentionally exposed more than 40 % darker than usual.

The meticulous preparation yielded outstanding benefits in the footage. At two,000 frames-per-second, the video showcases an initial vibrant green flame. This happens when a rocket fuel mixture named triethylaluminium-triethylborane (TEA-TEB) combusts upon get in touch with with oxygen and air. Following the green burst, yellow and orange flames grow to be visible. Due to the slow framerate, viewers can witness the flames reacting to the shockwaves generated by the engine thrust. The immense energy of a rocket engine is highlighted, as it can create more than 45,000 lbs of thrust in a vacuum at temperatures reaching as higher as five,500 F.