Page 22 - ATC Special Bulletin Series - Future Skies 2024

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| SPECIAL BULLETIN SERIES | 2024 |
“Without going into detail, it is the integration of the propulsion system into the airframe, and the wing specifically, that enables us to build this kind of aircraft. It makes sense from a weight and aerodynamics perspective,” says Chahine.
Putting the propulsion system in the wing as Cosmic intends to do comes with its own challenges. “You get much higher interaction effects between the propulsion system and the wing aerodynamics which is a challenge on one side. But on the other hand it is also a key enabler for things that you cannot otherwise do with a conventional configuration.”
According to simulations, managing those interactions is possible. Plus getting rid of additional wetted area and interference drag that you would have if you had external engines is a big bonus. What the firm has to do now is develop existing technology into a commercial product that is certifiable in current and future regulatory frameworks. “Our aircraft will be certified under Part 25 or CS 25,” says Chahine.
Chahine founded Cosmic with CTO Marshall Gusman, who brings a wealth of experience in aircraft and rocket development from NASA, Kittyhawk, and Boom Supersonic, where he most recently led the preliminary design team for the company’s airliner. The team also includes Joe Wilding, a veteran in aircraft development and former co-founder and chief technology officer of Boom Supersonic.
After raising an initial $1.5m two years ago, which was used to develop its full-scale engine prototype, Cosmic has just closed its seed round for $4.5m. The new funds will go to the development of the firm’s embedded wing design. A full-scale flight demonstrator is on track for its first flight in 2026, according to Chahine.
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