We had two successful flights of the Progeny Mk1-B earlier this week, but after a day reviewing the flight data engineers on the project were unsatisfied with the roll rate for the Mk1-B1 that flew first with angled fins for spin stabilization. Before the stage was separated, the rocket only achieved a maximum roll rate of 4 deg/sec compared to the roll rate of the Mk1-A1 which, lacking detailed flight telemetry was approximated by studying the launch footage, reached a peak rate of around 25 deg/sec. For the Mk1-B tests engineers were looking for a spin rate of at least 15 deg/sec to ensure proper deployment of the fairing payload and were glad no issues arose from the slow spin of the Mk1-B1 flight.
Project managers yesterday put forth the request for a third Mk1-B flight prior to the completion of telemetry data analysis, with increased fin angle for greater spin up during ascent. In retrospect, the smaller fins and shorter boost time of the Mk1-B should have required a greater deflection angle to begin with, but at least we now can compare the two rockets under the same guidance fin configuration (1.5 deg). Today, Operations Director Drew Kerman approved the 3rd flight, which will adjust the fin angle to 5 deg of pitch.
The launch is scheduled for 16:00 UTC on 10/11.
