Virgin Galactic will conduct its next rocket-powered test flight of SpaceShipTwo Unity on May 22, according to the company’s press release. The test follows a successful review of mothership jet VMS Eve meant to carry SpaceShipTwo to an altitude of about 50,000 feet.
The scheduled test flight will occur upon detailed technical and weather checks
Further engineering analysis was recommended for VMS Eve in early May to assess a recognized maintenance item in the tail of the vehicle
The VSS unity test flight will have two pilot crews and research payloads as per NASA’s Flight Opportunities program
The test flight will assess further improvements on VSS Unity to minimize EMI levels noted in last year’s December 12 flight
The scheduled test will also include all original test assessments such as the functionality of the upgraded horizontal stabilizing system and flight controls
Virgin Galactic expects to complete a thorough data review after the May flight that will inform the next test flight endeavor.
Virgin Galactic stock is currently gaining. SPCE: NYSE is up 21.13% on premarket.
