Rocket engine testing in vacuum conditions

National Space Propulsion Test Facility (NSPTF)
A new capability for vacuum testing of chemical space propulsion thrusters.
Funded and owned by the UK Space Agency as part of its mission to inspire and lead the UK in space.

Multiple Testing Capabilities

Three high-altitude horizontal chemical rocket test facilities in one location:

• 1,500 N

• 30 N

• 3 N

Access to the facility includes:

• Propellant management & conditioning

• Instrumented thrust stand with full data acquisition

• Dedicated and experienced test operators

Development, Qualification & Acceptance Testing

Monopropellant and bipropellant capability:

• Reaction control system thrusters

• Attitude control system thrusters

• Apogee engines

Propellant compatibility:

• Hydrazine

• MonoMethylHydrazine (MMH)

• Mixed Oxides of Nitrogen (MON3)

Vacuum Environment

• Electric pump set

  • Modular arrangement

  • Allowance for future expansion

• Fast start-up, test ready in <15 minutes

• High pumping capacity

• 4.5 mbar cell pressure (~120,000 ft) for 1.5 kN thrusters

• 1.5 mbar cell pressure (near vacuum) for 1 kN thrusters

Dedicated Customer Room

• Real-time data relay

• Video conference capability

• WiFi access

• Working space

• Basic welfare amenities

Owned By: UK Space Agency

Managed by: Science and Technology Facilities Council
Operated by: Nammo

Open Access Facility

Testing slots brokered through STFC.
📧 Contact: nsptf@stfc.ac.uk
📍 Location: Hosted and operated by Nammo, located at Westcott Venture Park, the home of UK rocket development since the 1940s.
Address:
Westcott Venture Park, Westcott
Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire
HP19 0XB