Stoke Space, a startup based in Washington state, is on a mission to develop fully reusable rockets, which co-founder Andy Lapsa describes as the 'Holy Grail of rocketry.'

The rocket's design features a unique 'ring-of-fire' engine system that utilizes 24 small thrusters to slow the descent of the second stage during reentry, integrated with a protective heat shield.

The Pacific Northwest's space industry has experienced significant growth, supporting 13,000 jobs, with Stoke poised to contribute to innovations in the sector.

Lapsa envisions a future where human colonies exist on Mars or the Moon, highlighting the necessity for a competitive space economy to realize such aspirations.

Founded in 2019 by former Blue Origin engineers Lapsa and Tom Feldman, Stoke has raised over $185 million from venture capitalists since its inception.

The company operates from a 168,000 square foot headquarters in Kent, Washington, where it is currently assembling rocket components and plans to double its workforce next year.

Stoke's first expendable rocket launch is scheduled for late 2025 from Cape Canaveral, Florida, with full reusability expected to be achieved by late 2026.

The company aims to establish a rapid reuse schedule for its rockets, akin to aircraft operations, which would significantly reduce launch costs and enhance access to space.

Engine tests are being conducted at Stoke's facility in Moses Lake, Washington, where advanced setups are in place for testing both booster and second-stage engines.

The rocket will be equipped with seven first-stage engines, each capable of generating 100,000 pounds of thrust, powered by cryogenic hydrogen and liquid natural gas.

Stoke's innovative technology could facilitate various commercial activities, such as asteroid mining and space junk cleanup, while also having potential military applications for rapid global cargo delivery.

Stoke's rocket is designed for up to 100 reuses, featuring a lightweight structure with walls less than a tenth of an inch thick and advanced cooling techniques for its engine components.