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About Us

At the core of our mission is a commitment to advancing accessible, high-impact research in thermal protection system (TPS) materials and plasma science. In pursuit of this endeavor, we have constructed the Research, Development, and Material Screening (RDMS) X-Jet Facility—a purpose-built, 33 kW arc jet facility designed to meet the growing demand for cost-effective, real-world testing for our industrial, academic, and governmental partners.

 

For decades, arc jet facilities have played a critical role in simulating extreme aerothermodynamic environments, supporting applications such as spacecraft entry analysis, thermal protection system testing, plasma diagnostics, and hypersonic propulsion research. However, traditional large-scale facilities often require significant financial investment, specialized personnel, and extensive maintenance, limiting their accessibility. Our work focuses on changing that.

 

The RDMS X-Jet Facility represents a new generation of compact, efficient, and affordable arc jet systems. By maintaining the essential capabilities of larger facilities while dramatically reducing operational complexity and cost, we aim to empower a broader community of researchers, engineers, and innovators. This approach enables more frequent testing, faster iteration cycles, and long-term experimental programs that were previously difficult to sustain. Through detailed design, simulation, and analysis, the RDMS X-Jet has demonstrated strong potential as a reliable platform for high-enthalpy plasma research and TPS material evaluation. Capable of sustained flow conditions approaching Mach 4, high enthalpies and heat fluxes rivaling what the Space Shuttle would encounter on entry, the RDMS X-Jet offers MEANINGFUL performance within a compact and scalable framework.

 

Finally, we believe that innovation in aerospace and plasma science should not be limited by access to large-scale infrastructure. By developing practical, lower-cost solutions, we are helping bridge the gap between concept and experimentation—supporting the next generation of research in extreme environments. Our goal is simple: make advanced testing more accessible, more flexible, and more impactful.

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©2026 by Baldwin Aerospace

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