Researchers have developed a computer model to describe how a new type of engine -- called a rotating detonation engine -- works, an advance they claim could make rockets more fuel-efficient, lightweight, and less complicated to construct.
According to the study, published in the journal Physical Review E, this engine has been too unpredictable to be used in an actual rocket until now.
However, the scientists from the University of Washington (UW) in the US said the new model can allow engineers to develop tests to improve these engines and make them more stable.
"The rotating detonation engine field is still in its infancy. We have tons of data about these engines, but we don't understand what is going on," said study lead author James Koch from UW.
"I tried to recast our results by looking at pattern formations instead of asking an engineering question -- such as how to get the highest performing engine -- and then boom, it turned out that it works," Koch said.
While a conventional .
