What is one of the benefits of using a hybrid rocket motor?

One of the benefits of using a hybrid rocket motor is simplified handling and safety. Hybrid rocket motors combine a liquid oxidizer with a solid fuel, allowing for a more controlled and safer handling process compared to traditional solid rocket motors, which can be sensitive to temperature changes and handling mishaps.

The use of a liquid oxidizer provides the advantage of being able to shut down or throttle the engine during flight, offering greater control. Additionally, hybrid fuels tend to be less hazardous during storage and transportation than solid fuels, which can often be unstable. This inherent safety makes hybrids appealing for both educational and experimental rocketry.

Increased complexity in design is typically seen as a disadvantage, as hybrid motors require additional components such as pumps and tanks for the liquid oxidizer. While lower cost of materials may vary based on specific designs and applications, hybrids are not generally recognized for being cheaper than solid or liquid rocket engines when all associated costs are considered. Higher energy density fuel is an advantage associated with certain types of fuel, but hybrids are not universally superior in this aspect compared to liquid fuels. Thus, simplified handling and safety is indeed a significant benefit of hybrid rocket motors.