Maxus (rocket)

Maxus is a sounding rocket that are used in the MAXUS microgravity rocket programme, a joint venture between Swedish Space Corporation and EADS Astrium Space Transportation used by ESA. It is launched from Esrange Space Center in Sweden and provides access to microgravity for up to 14 minutes.

Technical characteristics

 * Overall length: 15.5 m
 * Overall mass: 12 400 kg
 * Payload mass: approx. 800 kg
 * Max. velocity: 3500 m/s
 * Max. acceleration: 15 g
 * Propellant mass: 10 042 kg
 * Motor burn time: 63 s
 * Microgravity: up to 14 minutes
 * Apogee: > 700 km
 * Thrust(max. in vacuum): 500 kN