*The following is archival content from 2003, hosted on the original X PRIZE website, to maintain authenticity.

Propulsion: LOX/Alcohol Liquid and Solid Rocket Engines Ship Name: Canadian Arrow Team Leader: Geoffrey Sheerin Location: London, Ontario, Canada Launch: Vertical from ground Landing: Parchute descent into water Team Overview

Quote from Geoffry Sheerin

"Although there are many different teams competing for the X PRIZE, we are all fundamentally on the same team. When one of us wins the X PRIZE, we will all become entrepreneurs and pioneers in the eyes of the world."

Flight Sequence

The Canadian Arrow is a 54-ft long, two-stage, three person sub-orbital rocket with the second stage doubling as an escape system. The first stage is 33.5 ft. long and 5.4 ft. in diameter with four fins at the base for aerodynamic stability. Steering of the vehicle is accomplished using graphite jet vanes and aerodynamic flaps on the fins. The second stage (crew cabin) is 20-ft. long and 5.4 ft. in diameter at the base, and contains four jet-assisted-take-off type rocket engines for second stage propulsion. The four solid rockets can be ignited at any point during the flight, including before launch, to initiate a zero altitude launch pad abort or an in-flight recovery sequence.

After launch countdown, the propellant valves are opened, allowing the propellants to flow under gravity into the combustion chamber. Ignition occurs, initially producing only 17,000 lbs of thrust. The tanks are then brought up to full pressure, and the engine now builds rapidly to full thrust, lifting the vehicle from the launch pad. Graphite vanes in the exhaust gas ensure a stable flight until enough speed has been built up to allow the aerodynamic fins to function. The first stage burns for just under one minute, until all of the propellant is exhausted. Just prior to engine cutoff, the occupants will experience acceleration of no more than 4.5 G. At the edge of space, the second stage separates and ignites its engines, boosting the velocity enough to reach 70 miles altitude. The pilot can use the cold gas jets to orient the second stage to provide the best window view for the passengers.