Rolls-Royce and easyJet Collaborate on Hydrogen Testing at NASA's Stennis Space Center
Key Ideas
- Rolls-Royce, in partnership with easyJet, is conducting full-scale hydrogen testing at NASA's Stennis Space Center to explore the viability of aviation decarbonization through hydrogen as an alternative fuel.
- The goal of the testing is to demonstrate 100% hydrogen fuel operation on a modified Rolls-Royce Pearl 15 engine, with support from Tata Consultancy Services in engineering expertise.
- Rolls-Royce and easyJet aim to lead in developing hydrogen combustion engine technology for future use in aircraft, including those in the narrowbody market segment, by the mid-2030s.
- The collaboration also involves support from various programs and institutions globally, emphasizing the importance of hydrogen research for sustainable aviation and power generation.
Rolls-Royce and easyJet have initiated a groundbreaking project at NASA's Stennis Space Center in Mississippi, focusing on hydrogen testing for aerospace engines. This partnership aims to explore the potential of hydrogen as an alternative fuel to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050. The testing will involve integrating technologies for 100% hydrogen fuel operation on a modified Rolls-Royce Pearl 15 engine, with Tata Consultancy Services providing engineering support. Both companies are committed to advancing hydrogen combustion engine technology for future aircraft, targeting implementation in the mid-2030s. The collaboration also includes support from various programs and institutions worldwide, such as the UK's Aerospace Technology Institute and the European Union's Clean Aviation program, underlining the global significance of hydrogen research in the aviation sector. Rolls-Royce's focus on sustainability and innovation aligns with its vision to lead in developing technologies that promote decarbonization and sustainable aviation practices.