The British-built Bloodhound SSC had its first public test today (Thursday 26 October), as preparation for an attempt on the world land speed record.

The sleek car is basically a rocket on wheels and it’s hoped that it will eventually smash the 1,000mph barrier. However, today’s run was at a more manageable 200mph, so that the team can iron out any small problems as they gradually increase the speed during tests over the coming months and years.

The test included two runs, both of which were successful. Bloodhound reached 200mph in just eight seconds, delighting the crowds that had gathered at Newquay Airport.

At 1,000mph, things will be pretty noisy and uncomfortable, but the driver is an RAF fighter pilot, so he’s used to dealing with stressful situations! Wing Commander Andy Green is the man behind the wheel, and already holds the world land speed record. He set it back in 1997 in a car called Thrust SSC, which he drove at 763.035mph, becoming the first person to break the sound barrier on land.

Bloodhound is a big car – it’s 13.47m long and weighs nearly eight tonnes when fully fuelled. At top speed, it will race the length of four and a half football pitches in one second, and can travel a mile in 3.6 seconds! Whooooooooosh!

Click the picture above to see a really cool cut-away animation of Bloodhound and find out more about how it works.

While you’re here, read about the amazing woman who completed a marathon in a bionic suit!

Or what about the moon photobombing the sun?