2008: First Tethered Hover

Introducing the Personal Rocketcraft

Imagine straddling a rocket, soaring through the skies on the ride of your life. Whether you are into speed, excitement, or simply the stunning view from above, SpeedUp™ has what you are yearning for.

The personal rocketcraft is an entirely new concept in motorsports. A one-person rocket, which will allow YOU to take the controls, while a computer autopilot continually stabilizes the rocket.

The personal rocketcraft is on the way. Will you be ready for it?

How will it work?

SpeedUp™ personal rockecraft will be based on innovative design and sound engineering. Hydrogen peroxide rockets will provide thrust to lift the vehicle into the air and fly without wings. Meanwhile, a computerized attitude control system (ACS) will use a state space controller to maintain balance and stability.

The ACS will use sensors such as gyroscopes and GPS so that it constantly knows the position of the vehicle. The ACS will also filter the control inputs to the vehicle to prevent dangerous situations such as diving too fast, or the vehicle venturing outside its operating area. The ACS will even be able to fly or land the vehicle on autopilot.

Safety will be provided in depth with primary and backup systems designed through extensive failure mode analysis. A robust control system will monitor the vehicle's health and bring the vehicle in for a landing if any anomaly starts to develop. All safety critical parts will have redundant backups. In addition, the vehicle will have emergency safety systems such as a parachute and a roll cage. All safety systems will be designed to minimize the probability of a failure, and to minimize the severity of a failure should one occur.

When can I get one?

The personal rocketcraft is currently in the design phase, and so is not yet commercially available. You can follow our progress on our news page, and we will announce availability dates as soon as possible.