Video: SpaceShipTwo

Designing the future of space flight (Image: Virgin Galactic)

Burt Rutan is one of the US’s leading aeronautical engineers, noted for his innovative designs and light, energy-efficient air and spacecraft, including Virgin Galactic’s SpaceShipTwo. In a rare interview, he talks to David Cohen about his work, conspiracy theories and the explosion that claimed the lives of three engineers

“We call it Mojavewood – have you seen the movie?” asks Burt Rutan sardonically as we drive away from a glitzy ceremony and towards the legendary aircraft designer’s office, tucked away in a hangar at Mojave airport, California. Suddenly he bursts into song “Oh Mojaaavewood, tada …