Alumni Ventures Invests in Astro Mechanica to Pioneer the Future of Air Travel

Astro Mechanica has developed a new supersonic propulsion system that enhances both efficiency and adaptability. Unlike conventional jet engines, Astro Mechanica’s “turbo-electric adaptive engine” separates the thermal and propulsive functions of the engine, allowing for optimal performance at any speed. This breakthrough significantly reduces fuel consumption while offering the flexibility to operate efficiently in a wide range of speeds, from subsonic to supersonic.

“Our mission is to replace traditional airline travel with low-cost, supersonic, on-demand flights,” said Founder and CEO Ian Brooke, who recently discussed his company on AV’s Tech Optimist podcast. “With our technology, we aim to offer passengers the ability to travel anywhere in the world in a fraction of the time it takes today, all while maintaining cost parity with current airliners.”

Astro Mechanica is currently performing engine testing, with the goal of completing trans-Pacific flight demonstrations in the coming years. Looking ahead, the company’s propulsion system also offers a promising solution for space travel, with applications that can reduce the cost of getting payloads into orbit by replacing the first stage of traditional rocket systems. This dual-purpose technology positions Astro Mechanica as a key player in both the aviation and space industries.

“Astro Mechanica is on the cutting edge of aerospace technology, with a propulsion system that could dramatically change both travel and commerce,” said AV Senior Associate Drew Wandzilak, who hosted the conversation with Brooke on AV’s Tech Optimist podcast. “Their ability to reduce costs while increasing speed is truly game-changing.”