AIR LAUNCH PLATFORM
Dedicated Launch by Starfighters F-104 provides reliable access to space.
US based launch capability provides control over launch schedule and orbital destination; features not normally available with rideshare launch systems.
Domestic launch site offers protections under US law including environmental, safety, FAA, Space Force, and NASA oversight.
Timely launch capability is critical for commercial activity including constellation replenishment, yet more than half of all small to medium sized satellites launched in the last 5 years had delays up to 24 months.
Starfighters Space is the only commercial company in the world that can fly at a sustained MACH 2. Starfighters Space is in a unique position because of the F-104’s unequaled speed and altitude capability.
We fly payloads including new technologies such as hypersonics for national security research. While we can fly at MACH 2, we are in development of a rocket that will achieve speeds of MACH 5, the minimum speed for hypersonic flight, that would be air-launched from the F-104.
The STARLAUNCH is initially based on the proven envelope of the AIM120 AMRAAM-based SILA-class rocket, an underwing launched guided missile, with over 17,500 built.
With over 2,600 F-104’s produced in several models, replacement parts and expertise are available to maintain the airframes through their design lifespan to 2035.
STARLAUNCH I / II
Starfighters Innovative Launch Alliance: Unique satellite delivery vehicles.
STARLAUNCH I & II
Starfighters Innovative Launch Alliance: Unique satellite delivery vehicles.
STARLAUNCH I & II ORBITAL INSERTION CONCEPT
HYPERSONIC DEVELOPMENT
Hypersonic rockets and projectiles travel at between 5 and 25 times the speed of sound – about 1 to 5 miles per second.
Starfighters is partnered with the Air Force Research Lab to develop and test hypersonic rockets critical to US National Defense
The Pentagon has publicly stated investment begins at $4.7 billion on hypersonic research for 20231
Both Russia and China have hypersonic programs fielding operational hypersonic vehicles1
The Pentagon, National Science Foundation, and the US Congress are pursuing the development of hypersonic systems
1. Congressional Research Service Hypersonic Weapons Report dated July 20, 2022
ADVANCED PILOT TRAINING
Under a Letter of Deviation Authority (LODA) from the FAA, Starfighters is now able to offer F-104 flight training to qualified licensed pilots. This limited-access training is designed to enhance confidence and flight safety through comprehensive ground training sessions and back-seat flight operations in the controlled airspace above NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. Here are the basic requirements:
Must have at least a private pilot’s license (PPL)
Must have a valid flight medical
Must meet height and weight limitations
Must be at least 18 years of age
Must qualify for access badging to NASA Kennedy Space Center
Must sign a release-of-liability agreement
This course covers the fundamentals of flying the legendary F-104, an aircraft that made aviation history with speed and altitude records, its service as a trainer for NASA’s Mercury and Apollo astronauts, and as a multi-role international military warbird. Starfighters will provide one-on-one instruction to ensure a thorough understanding of the aircraft systems, flying characteristics, and important safety issues. Here’s a checklist describing what is needed and what is provided.
For more information and to make a reservation please contact us:
Pilot Training Inquiries: +1 (321) 289-3051
Pilot Training Inquiries:
+1 (321) 289-3051
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