All the tweets pertaining to the operation of the program along with its crew and vehicles. You can click the link below to reverse the order of the reports and start from the very beginning. Clicking on the bookmark icon will save your spot so you can return at any time to pick up where you left off.
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
at this time we do not know the nature of the threat or the time frame, but given that we have suffered an attack in the past (kerbalspace.agency/?p=9965) we have no choice but to take this seriously & deal with the relatively minor inconvenience compared to a potential loss of life
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
there is also now apparently a threat against KSC and we have complied with orders from the government security forces earlier today that the entire facility be evacuated. We will continue to operate at limited capacity from our HQ in Umbarg until the threat has passed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
CFO Mortimer has finally been able to post our first financial report for 2021 covering the month of January. Commercial success this year hinges on the Ascension Mk3 & Progeny Mk8 being able to accept contracts, from which we can extract profit: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a full investigation into the destruction of CFO Mortimer's computer has shown it was indeed bad electrical wiring and it looks like the problems that have been affecting the Admin Bldg for a while now will require some serious overhaul, tho no effect to ongoing operations
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
kerzzah! āØš„ A happy 15th kerbolar anniversary to us all here at the KSA. Yes, in the time since the Agency has started operations we have traveled around Kerbol 15 times now for a total distance of 1,280,470,886km! Which sounds impressive but is barely over 1 light hour
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
full financial report for 2020 is now available as its own sheet, the regular link will continue to carry monthly updates through this year. We hope to continue to see growth in 2021 as more and more commercial space contracts become available docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all staff and crew are due back at KSC today to begin our 2021 operational year! Here's the new photo that adorns our various social media profiles and website header. This year the only changes planned so far are to expand the Support Village for more on-campus housing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although we did have a shutdown of the rocketry programs early this year, there was no shutdown of the entire Agency at any point and we at least got off one mission each month in 2020, continuing the streak that went through 2019 as well. Planning to keep it alive in 2021!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon missions were as numerous as last year and mission time was nearly doubled on average as surface expeditions became more far-flung & long-lasting. The successful use of orbital comms tested this year has everyone excited to really open up surface exploration in 2021
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although we signed our biggest commercial contract to date this month to set us high on income for the year, lots and lots of spending to come in 2021. Wernher von Kerman, R&D Head, is excited to have had his full budget proposal accepted, for once
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
financial report for December has been posted by CFO Mortimer, who will also be working this week on our year-end report to publish at the start of next month. It and our past months/yrs of finances are always publicly available here bit.ly/KSA_Finances
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
project and program leads as well as KSA admin staff are back to work already, foregoing the normal 2wk vacay to get working on solidifying plans for next year. We will also be doing our regular recaps on the year's operations over this coming week leading into 2021
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
both KerBalloon crews, the last hold outs of 2020 operations, returned today from their extended Badlands expedition. They look forward to a break from the field as first half of 2021 will need their assistance w/ rocketry programs to meet a demanding launch schedule
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our final Ops Summary for 2020 has been published! What an amazing year it has been, despite our troubles towards the end. Thank you everyone for your support, have a safe holiday season and we hope you too are aiming high for 2021! kerbalspace.agency/?p=11442
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
despite regular contact capability through Kerbin II, no news has been good news from the KB expedition out in the Badlands. Things are wrapping up with all 8 balloons successfully released & recovered. Team should be back home this weekend
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
CFO Mortimer has updated our financial sheet with Nov's earnings - or lack thereof as expected. Commercial rocket contracts are on the horizon though! Net profit in 2021? More like '22-23 perhaps. But next year would be nice... docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
as you can see, Kerbin II does travel away from the expedition site & is not able to communicate every pass. In general the ground teams have 5-8 mins during 5 windows ~35min apart, then a ~3hr wait for the start of the next 5-window pass
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
coming up on a Kerbin II contact window with the expedition the KerBalloon crews are attached to, which will bounce a signal to DSN Central that will be distributed via ground cables to the command centers here at KSC and Sheltered Rock where the science expedition is based from
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Badlands expedition going well, here is a low-alt balloon being released near the center of what is now even more strongly believed to be a caldera. There doesn't appear to be any active vents or geysers but if gas is escaping into the air the instruments aboard will detect it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
plenty of exciting things to recount & expound upon from these past 2wks, so be sure to check our Ops Summary this weekend while you are kicking back to relax - at least we hope you are! What are your plans? Our crew will be off on a wilderness excursion kerbalspace.agency/?p=11398
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon crews have shipped out from Umbarg aboard airships carrying the expedition out to the Badlands. They will pick up supplies shipped earlier to DSN Central then head down to spend a month researching the suspected caldera, releasing 3 low & 5 hi-alt balloons
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
unlike a previous mission where just the small KB crew used Kerbin II to stay in touch with a nearby support base, this large expedition will be more remote, carry a lot more support but also cover a wider area and be able to stay in direct contact with spread out teams as well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
both KerBalloon crews will be venturing with an expedition deep into the Badlands to explore a suspected super-volcano caldera. Multiple releases will measure weather and also collect gas information. Kerbin II will support the mission by allowing more constant contact
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
CFO Mortimer has posted our Oct finances and we've scraped out yet another profit. Wait, who's laughing? Oh, that would be Wernher von Kerman with his huge 2021 R&D budget proposal, not to mention looming R&D costs for Mk3 development. But for now - green! docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's not time yet for everyone to enjoy the weekend - majority of Kerbin II operations team will be at it until late today - but if it's time for you to log off already be sure to first catch up on major events from these last two weeks: kerbalspace.agency/?p=11332
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
successful return of the low-alt KerBalloon crew today as their ship pulled into port in Umbarg. They are excited to plan their next mission with the high-alt crew and continue to take advantage of Kerbin II to reach locations previously not as feasible
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
latest report from the low-alt KB crew is that they made it back to the boat okay, however the second release failed when the balloon refused to inflate due to damage that likely occurred during transit. Uncommon, but always an unfortunate possibility
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it may be only 4 calendar years since we started the KSA but in that time Kerbin has orbited the sun 14 times as of today! There are also still 4 outer planets starting with Sarnus that have not even completed a single orbit around Kerbol yet (Sarnus' 1st orbit ends 11/2024)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
in the past, we've had to rely on airships for comms over the horizon, this is just one example of many. It was still rather limited in overall range. Having the network and spacecraft to do this ourselves across the globe is a goal we've long sought twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-altitude KerBalloon crew have made their first release today. Image was sent via Kerbin II to the Kongo base then along the ground cable to us at KSC (re-routed at Kravass then Umbarg). So cool to finally be able to keep tabs on distant surface expeditions!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we hope everyone has a great weekend but before you log off be sure to get caught up on all the cool and exciting things that have transpired over the past to weeks here at the Kerbal Space Agency: kerbalspace.agency/?p=11318
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the low-altitude KB crew are checking in regulalrly through bit.ly/Kerbin-II as they work through their overland transit to get to the release site after being deployed by the cargo ship. They will deploy over the weekend if all goes well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-altitude KerBalloon crew have set out on the cargo ship bound for Arekibo out of Umbarg, will be dropped off along the way to release two balloons over bit.ly/Sector_KD-T. We'll be keeping track of their progress thanks to relayed comms from Kerbin II to Kongo base
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
high-altitude KerBalloon crew landed back at KSC today after their extended mission over in the Kongo river basin. All 5 release & recoveries were successful, now meteorologists have a better weather picture of the area that will help planning for future surface excursions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
latest down-link of science data also included this image that was up-linked from out in the field as the high-altitude KB team release their fifth and final balloon near the mouth of the Kongo river. They'll be packing up and heading home this month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bank account remains stable as CFO Mortimer releases our Sept financial report. We're looking good for the remainder of the year. Thanks to all our bit.ly/KSA_Patreon supporters helping to keep us afloat! docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
normally this type of mission would be carried out via airship with a lot more support supplies but with Kerbin II in orbit making passes overhead the team can radio for any assistance from the Kongo base if needed & we can stay in touch with them on a regular basis
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new contract for the low-alt KB team will have them hop aboard a regular supply ship from Umbarg to Arekibo, get dropped off along the way to traverse via UTV to the release site, then back to the water to be picked up when the cargo ship sails back to Umbarg a few days later
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
waiting on good weather, high-alt KerBalloon crew have finally released their first payload from the Kongo base and will range out further as their stay progresses, covering areas all along the river out to the mouth more than 350km to the west
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
āØš Happy Operational Anniversary KSA!! šāØ
šššš
Yes we have been underway now for 4 years. Our founder and Ops Director @DKerman_KSA would like you to know what could be in store for our future - please read his statement on our website: kerbalspace.agency/?p=11270
šššš
Yes we have been underway now for 4 years. Our founder and Ops Director @DKerman_KSA would like you to know what could be in store for our future - please read his statement on our website: kerbalspace.agency/?p=11270
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a Dhumla taxis in at the Kongo research base carrying equipment and some team members for the high-altitude KerBalloon crew, who will be setting up shop there for the next month to run an extended balloon release campaign for better data on weather patterns in the region
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
mission controllers better enjoy what could be their last weekend off in a while. Find out more information on the events of the past two weeks and anything important you might have missed in our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=11261
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
data from the two low-alt KerBalloon missions this month has allowed Lead Scientist Cheranne to get funding for her Field Research Team and grant a long-term contract to the KB crew for more regular pollen measurements to compliment the quarterly Civvie flights
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
high-alt KB crew will be spending the next few weeks at the Kongo base releasing several balloons so meteorologists can collect more extensive data and further improve forecasts for the region to benefit planning of ground excursions around the river basin
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
another successful release & recovery from the low-altitude KerBalloon team has been reported as they roll back into KSC. They nearly got into trouble with a rockslide coming down from above while traversing the highlands - trailing UTV just cleared it in time! *phew*
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
CFO Mortimer has updated our financial statements to include August. As always, many thanks to our bit.ly/KSA_Patreon supporters for helping us still manage to turn a small profit this month. Full report: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
later than planned departure for the KB crew as they head north for bit.ly/Area_D0J-60. The traversal will take about 3hrs over 2 day cycles to cover ~120km. They will then camp out and await good conditions for release tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KB crew just rolled back into KSC through the Umbarg access tunnel. They attempted to return overland but got blocked by water rushing down out of the highlands from the storm & had to double back and finish the journey underground. Payload recovery was successful
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after about 55min of ascent the low-altitude KerBalloon has reached its maximum altitude of 16.5km (5kPa outside pressure), expanding gas has ruptured the envelope and chutes will deploy to lower the payload back down. Crews should have been tracking in UTVs for recovery
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're getting telemetry data from the KerBalloon just released through the Umbarg aerial relay. Crew camped out until 3rd sunrise. They report hearing thunder off to the north, thankfully winds out of the east will blow balloon away from the storms
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-altitude KB crew have headed out to the grasslands (bit.ly/Sector_LVS9B) for the 1st of their 2 pollen support readings this month. The traversal will be 78km taking ~2hrs. Could cut time traveling underground to Umbarg before surfacing but it's a nice day cycle out
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-altitude KerBalloon team have received a follow-up contract to their last mission. Scientists were pleased with the extra pollen data and will have two more balloons sent up in the region for even more data to continue to fine-tune their models
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon crew is on their way back to Ockr after successfully locating and recovering the payload, which thankfully did not come floating down over any challenging terrain. They will be back at KSC by the end of the day with the precious science data
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
high-altitude KerBalloons still have to deal with icing issues that can lead to early envelope failure but after nearly 1.5hrs of ascent the payload almost made it to max altitude of 25km. Crew is tracking its descent for recovery
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the sky is barely brightened over here but the high-altitude KB crew 512km northeast has daylight already to send up their payload. We are receiving telemetry data and this photo via the comm relay leading to Sheltered Rock, perched on that flat peak in the far distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
high-altitude KerBalloon team are hopping on a Dhumla flight out to Ockr where they will then take an airship out to bit.ly/Sector_M-J8B4 for their release. Fixed-wing flight predictably starting to take over for inter-regional travel
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KB crew is back at KSC, reports the payload was recovered but damaged due to 1 of 2 chutes failing. Science data is intact however as designed in the event of only 1 good chute so mission remains a success while some new parts will need to be ordered
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tracking Station was receiving telemetry from the KerBalloon since shortly after release & it has now burst at max altitude of 16.5km (<5kPa pressure) after a 55min ascent. Crew will recover it after descent under chute and return to KSC by the end of the day
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-alt KerBalloon crew has departed via Utility Task Vehicle to head out on a 32km traverse to the grasslands west of KSC for a release over bit.ly/Zone_7NW3XV. Depending on terrain conditions, it should take them ~1hr & they plan to release next day cycle
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
high-altitude KerBalloon crew will be releasing a payload up over the mountains from the highlands between Ockr & Sheltered Rock as ongoing studies continue work to improve weather forecast models for various regions of the planet, especially near the future surface colony
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-altitude KerBalloon team will be making a short sojourn out to the grasslands west of KSC next week to release a balloon and see if the data gathered can help augment Civvie flights to record pollen levels in the atmosphere
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
big spending this month is what we want to see, working hard to get Ascension closer to being able to accept full commercial launch contracts. CFO Mortimer says we are still looking healthy to continue operations as planned thru 2020. Full report: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
get caught up on KSA operations to ensure you don't miss what's currently going on at the KSC campus: kerbalspace.agency/?p=11128 plus even a bit more we couldn't squeeze in to the news card. Everyone have a great weekend!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
weather delayed their balloon release so the high-altitude crew just recently rolled back to base out in the Kongo but report successful recovery and no serious issues on the round-trip drive. Everyone enjoyed getting to camp out under the aurora
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
high-altitude KerBalloon crew should have reached their target location yesterday and should have released their balloon today. If so, we expect them back at the Kongo base late tomorrow. Soon we will have CommSats to enable us to stay in touch better with ground expeditions!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with some early day fog still burning off from the river below, high-alt KB team sets out from the Kongo base on their journey northwest to bit.ly/Area_GQP7-S. Precious equipment kept in the rear-most UTV to avoid any terrain accidents suffered by pathinders in front
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
high-altitude KB crew are loading up to fly out to the Kongo, with 2 Dhumlas to carry UTVs and supplies. Crew will fly out in Deuces. Though none are our own aircraft, this is still the first time using no airships for mission transport! Not always cheaper, but progressive
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
returning back to port on schedule, the low-altitude KerBalloon team confirm they successfully released & recovered their payload. Katgan and her fellow KWS meteorologists are keen to check out the data to see how it affects future Kerblantic storm forecasts
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's the high-altitude KerBalloon crew's turn to take out the UTVs, which will be shipped to the Kongo from where they will set out for a ~450km traverse to release a balloon over the largest open plain on Kerbin, under contract from Kip Engineering
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-altitude KerBalloon crew have departed from Umbarg aboard the chartered ship MSV Lymun to head out to bit.ly/Sector_QH-T96. They will release & recover tomorrow, perform additional surface data collection and then return to port by Thurs if sea conditions cooperate
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-altitude KerBalloon crew will be headed out to sea again for their next contract tho there's a chance they will have to recover the payload from land. The straits between these islands influence Kerblantic storm dev so study of wind patterns here is vital for forecasting
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Ops Summary is back and we will try to stick to the weekly format again moving forward. Learn more details about what went down these past two weeks and catch anything you may have missed: kerbalspace.agency/?p=11093
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Badlands scientific expedition brought home a haul of data that will keep scientists busy for years & KB hi-alt team successfully released both balloons over separate locations. Here is from their original release site bit.ly/Area_F-CDSX. Badlands look deceptively welcoming
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
income is back in the red for June as expected but nearly as bad as CFO Mortimer feared, leaving us in good shape to push forward full-steam ahead for the remainder of the year. You can always review our latest monthly report on yearly finances here: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill heard about the work on Monolith crystals & reasons the KB program could use them to release short energy bursts at several points during ascent to power heating elements that could melt any ice forming on the envelope. KerBalloon is looking into it with interest
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
R&D have concluded that however the Monolith is able to slowly discharge its energy, the understanding is beyond them. The potential for high density EC storage remains tho, and even with quick discharge rates could provide for emergency backup power to hungry spacecraft systems
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
successful in their release and recovery, the low-altitude KerBalloon crew has returned to port in Umbarg and will travel back to KSC tomorrow to await their next assignment. Only one crew member had to deal with sea sickness
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-alt crew have shipped out aboard MSV Lymun to head for bit.ly/Area_G0-XK8 & will return next week. We'd save some funds by letting them use our own ship MSV Aldeny but that's needed here so Bill & Bob can begin working their water recovery drills for July's mission
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the low-altitude KerBalloon crew did indeed enjoy their last two traversals but this next mission will have them shipping out to sea, which some enjoy more than others. Regardless of personal preference they will tough it out - for SCIENCE!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
sometime this week is when the hi-alt KB crew is scheduled to release their balloons. They have a backup that'll go up too, hopefully collecting data *in addition* to the primary. If so, it'll be in a separate location. Badlands cover an area ~100,000km^2 twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
glad to have the low-alt crew back safe at KSC after another 400km+ traversal coming back from Kravass. As usual UTVs will need a good washing to clean off all the mud but ride was uneventful and no serious maintenance issues are in need of attention
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the KerBalloon payload was shipped back to KSC so any data on it could be recovered before the weekend, however it was damaged beyond repair. Mission fail š Lead Scientist Cheranne has chided the team for not taking more precautions for recovering around mountainous terrain
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
weather has delayed the return of the low-alt KB crew as heavy rain swept over the highlands, meaning muddy slopes. Lowlands are riddled with hidden sink holes so best to wait until tomorrow for the highlands to dry out and allow safer UTV traversal
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with airship assistance, the low-alt KerBalloon crew have successfully located and recovered the payload, although it is damaged from rolling down a steep slope. When they return to KSC tomorrow, we'll see what can be recovered. They'll depart via UTV later today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
unfortunately for the KB crew, the balloon got caught up in a gyre over this depression and the payload has landed within it, making it unrecoverable by UTV. An airship will be chartered for tomorrow to head out and deploy the crew so they can retrieve it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
POP! Outside air pressure has dropped below 5kPa and the expanding balloon (now over 4x larger than it started) can stretch no further, the gas within bursting forth to escape & send the payload plummeting back towards the ground. It will deploy chutes and soft land for recovery
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
that the clouds seem to stop over the ridgeline of the mountain range known as the Wall is not a coincidence. This large terrain upthrust regularly acts as a frontal boundary and stalls or redirects weather coming from the polar regions, keeping the northern plains temperate
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
contact! Tlm received from the KerBalloon as it passes thru 4.6km & clears the terrain that was blocking it from Kravass aerial. Rising at a nominal rate of ~5m/s on its way up to max alt of 16.5km ASL. Relayed data from the ground crew sends us this img of release looking west
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-alt KB crew have set out from the northern entrance to traverse to their release site this day cycle, get setup then camp out overnight and be ready for ascent after 3rd sunrise. We will pick up the balloon's telemetry through the Kravass relay antenna
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
sticking to the highlands & known routes across the northern plains meant no troubles with sink holes and the UTVs carrying the low-alt KerBalloon crew have arrived safely in Kravass. They will set out again tomorrow for the trip north along the Wall to their release site
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
May finances have been published (docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦). The centrifuge has been paid off and we have built up a bit more spending capital to hopefully finally put to use this month. We hope to lose money in June cause then we'd be exploring hard!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
another beautiful day cycle begins here at KSC, looking west at 2nd sunrise from outside the Tracking Station. Weather reports from aircraft flying between KGA/KSC & KGA/UMB: great conditions across the northern plains, good news for our KB crew in transit. Minmus hangs above
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-altitude KB crew have already set out, familiar enough with the local terrain to begin their 9-10hr journey to Kravass under darkness. Lead UTV scouts the route for safe traversal while fuel & equipment UTVs follow. Safe trip!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
wishing best of luck to the high-altitude KerBalloon crew as they set off on their mission to the Badlands. The expedition will take up to 4-5 weeks to make the most of the journey while also lasting as long as possible in the unforgiving conditions of the area
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-alt KB crew enjoyed their last traversal so much they jumped at the chance to do another, being resupplied by Kravass this time. They will set out next week after the UTVs finish up some maintenance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
high-altitude KerBalloon crew have a new contract and will be embarking next week with a science expedition out to the Badlands, the first surface excursion to this inaccessible and inhospitable region of Kerbin since mid-2018. At least this time ATN Central is a waystop
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Tongjess has returned to port in Umbarg with our high-alt KB crew, who were forced to release their backup balloon when the first suffered icing issues and failed to reach high enough for good data. Slight hit to profit, but what must be done for mission success
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a large rainstorm and the ensuing soggy terrain delayed the low-altitude KerBalloon team on their 657km traversal back to KSC but all three UTVs have finally pulled back into campus after pulling each other out of the mud several times. Glad to have everyone back safely!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
having just been resupplied once again as they pass south of Sheltered Rock, the low-altitude KB crew are continuing on their way home. Perfect weather greeted them for release earlier today, and the payload was recovered without issue
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
high-altitude KerBalloon crew have set sail for bit.ly/Sector_Q-0ZN5 in the high arctic ocean aboard MSV Tongjess. The ship is also carrying another research crew that will be collecting samples from the deep sea while the KB crew samples the high air
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-altitude KB crew have recovered their first balloon and have been resupplied via airship from Sheltered Rock with their second balloon and more fuel/food to begin the journey to their next release point, arriving tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the high-altitude KerBalloon crew have now also landed their first contract since Feb. We are happy to see agencies returning to us for more data. The balloon program remains our most reliable, with an overall success rate of 90%
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-altitude KerBalloon caravan departed today to begin their journey to bit.ly/Zone_88TN-K, which will take 10-12 hours of travel time broken up over today and tomorrow. Airships traveling between Sheltered Rock & Umbarg will allow us to relay messages
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
financial report for April is now available (docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦) are we happy with this months earnings? Not really, because we want to be spending this money on space missions! We continue be thankful though for our bit.ly/KSA_Patreon contributors!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ have finalized a contract to carry out two releases over land. The crew will use UTVs and an airship from Sheltered Rock will resupply them. This will be the longest overall traversal to date but having not done any recently they are looking forward to it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
CFO Mortimer has published our latest financial report, which shows us eating - nay, gorging on the profits we made in Feb thanks to the orbital Kerbin I mission. Another reason to pause ops - rocket flights not yet sustainable. Full report: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
post-launch and post-mission ops are all wrapped up, everyone is looking forward to a nice relaxing weekend before the final prep for next week's launch pushes crews back into high gear. Recap this week's events here in our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=10830
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Scientist Cheranne & her field research team have returned from gathering atmospheric radiation data in Kerbin's upper polar atmosphere. She looks forward to applying their findings to future surface missions in the area that could test radiation-hardened habitats
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
š« KERZZAH! ā - 12 times we have now traveled around Kerbol since the KSA was founded - at 1,025,316,660.821km distance traveled we are just 3 light minutes shy of a light hour's travel time over the same distance. Spaceship Kerbin is tooling along at a constant 9.28km/s
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
earning the orbital prize purse not only made Feb a profitable month but secured our financial future - at least through the remainder of this year. By that time we hope to be placing commercial payloads into orbit! Full financial report: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the high-altitude KerBalloon team have departed for the Kongo with Lead Scientist Cheranne & her field research team. They will be releasing 4 balloons over the next 2wks across the northern tundra region where the outer radiation belt reaches down into the atmosphere
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a historic month draws to a close. Recap the Kerbin I mission, learn more about our upcoming missions and what else transpired this past week over at the Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=10499
Also, now all the parties
šššš
Also, now all the parties
šššš
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerbin I has come home! There was a lot more of the probe that survived re-entry than expected, which will make for interesting post-flight analysis. Lead Scientist Cheranne & her team with the high-alt KB crew are set to depart aboard this Dhumla when it heads back to the Kongo
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
saving funds in not chartering our own MSV meant the low-altitude KB crew had to wait 2 weeks for a regular supply ship to take them back from the ATN South construction site but they report 2 good release and recoveries were had while they were there. Ker-ching!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after the latest high-alt KB contract was dropped, Lead Scientist Cheranne was able to get funding approved to take the remaining 4 units and gather more radiation data in the upper polar atmosphere. Not as good as 4 individual missions but sometimes science over income is worthy
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-alt KB crew will set sail today for the sea & overland voyage to the ATN South base camp, where they will then borrow vehicles unused now that equipment is at the summit & trek to their release point bit.ly/Site_0-C75S. Then a 2-week wait for the supply return trip!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
high-altitude KerBalloon contract fell through, but that's good news to Lead Scientist Cheranne who wants to use the rest of our existing inventory to make another trip to the polar regions for more radiation data twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we managed to land the low-alt bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ contract, which will have the crew hop aboard a supply run to ATN South for relatively easy access to the southern tundra. It's still going to be a rough trip but at least they will have support in place
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
monthly financial report has been released by CFO Mortimer - lightning towers, centrifuge, pad repairs - lots of large infrastructure expenses this month. We expect to burn money the first half of this year but not as much as January (we hope) docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
maritime vessel carrying our high-altitude KerBalloon team has pulled back into port in Umbarg after an uneventful voyage. Crews report no issues with release or recovery. CFO Mortimer looks forward to depositing our first check of the month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
CFO Mortimer has two more KerBalloon contracts in negotiation that will hopefully be signed next week but all other agencies show no need for additional data - every now & then we reach a point where everyone is doing analysis & no missions are available
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon manufacturer has determined the damaged casing came as a result of inadequate securing of the balloon while traversing rough terrain. Given that this has never been an issue before, we don't accept all the blame but agree to review our UTV loading procedures
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
high-altitude KerBalloon team have set out from Umbarg aboard the maritime research vessel that will carry them to bit.ly/Area_J8209R. Stuck out in the middle of the ocean, its tall terrain jutting up into the otherwise smooth air creates unique weather effects
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
great to get a space mission off the ground this month! A bit of Mk1 preliminary analysis along with additional details for other major events this past week await your attention in our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=10336 have a relaxing weekend, everyone
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
high-altitude bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ crew will tag along with an expedition to a new remote island that was formed by volcanism only within the last century. Meteorologists are interested to see how it affects weather given the relative flat surrounding ocean
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rolling back into KSC, the low-altitude KerBalloon team reports no issues on the drive there & back but did have an unusually difficult time getting the balloon inflated. We're sending the recovered casing back to the manufacturer for tests
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-altitude KerBalloon crew took care of their overland journey to bit.ly/Site_V817DW earlier today. Unless they encountered some trouble they should have reached their release point within 5 hours and will likely send their balloon up tomorrow & return the same day
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
yes we've been missing two UTVs needed for safe land traversals but they were a New Years gift to the KerBalloon program. We must have forgot to mention it over the operational break twitter.com/Bookz2232/statā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-altitude bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ have landed a contract close enough to KSC that they can use the UTVs to get there and back, which is always a great way to save money - but also presents more risk. Sinkholes are an issue but one crews are familiar with
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
back on schedule, the high-altitude KerBalloon crew had a good release and recovery. They report there's still not much to see at the site for the new surface colony. Lots of surveying has yet to be completed before any construction can begin
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-altitude KerBalloon pulled back into port a day late, lost one of their balloons due to stormy weather but successfully recovered the other. Sea missions always run the highest risk for losing payloads, which is often why they send up more than one
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we did pick up a few minutes of low-alt balloon telemetry routed to us from Kravass as it neared its maximum 16.5km altitude before it was lost prior to envelope failure, which means the balloon was drifting northwards and fell below the horizon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
high-altitude KerBalloon team has now made their own departure, setting out via airship for the new surface colony location to perform an advanced weather survey that will help planners decided how best to place structures
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
what are we hoping to achieve in 2020? Last week we shared details on Extremis goals and now we have information for the rest of our programs in this report: kerbalspace.agency/?p=10258 what are you most looking forward to from us in 2020?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-alt KerBalloon team has set sail out of Umbarg for the journey to release & recover two balloons in the waters to the north. There's a chance we could pickup telemetry from the release over Site Z1-P through Kravass if it does not drift too far north
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon program still gets interest in low-altitude balloons because some experiments are just not designed for the thinner air & colder temps of the upper atmosphere and they are also much easier to launch, with thicker material that staves off ice damage. Also cheaper
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ teams will both base out of KSC again for the time being, set for weather analysis flights this month as meteorology gradually becomes more important to kerbs besides us as surface activity continues to increase
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
CFO Mortimer has compiled his report for December as well as all of 2019 to show that we actually managed to pull off a small profit this past year. Kerzzah! Still quite a ways from net gain but a promising step towards commercial success docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSA 2020 ops are kicking off this week with meetings! Lots and lots of meetings as the various programs decide on their goals for the coming year, which we will report on over the course of this week. Admin makes final decisions but all team members contribute
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
welcome to 2020!! šš„ Kerbs are eager to get back to work next week, so much so that Operations Director @DKerman_KSA revoked access privileges to force some to take a vacation. We're not naming names but their initials start with Wernher von Kerman
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bye bye 2019! KSA operations for the year have concluded. We will continue to note significant past events on weekends, ATN weekly updates & asteroid bulletins, or any other significant events. Regular ops will resume 1/6/202ļøā£0ļøā£! Final ops summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=10213
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
check it out - 2019 was the first full calendar year that saw continuous operations! We did take a few hits this year that reduced our operational capacity but KSC was not shut down for any extended period of time. Here's looking to a stronger 2020!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon program was unable to secure any nearby missions & is packing it up for the year. Kongo high-alt crew are happy to finally be heading home. Year in review shows how we are still sticking mainly to our hemisphere, but satellites in 2020 could change that
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
happy with the initial results, Lead Scientist Cheranne is eager to return next year to release several more balloons since as they drift about, the rate at which rads increase by altitude should change slightly depending on their location, to form a more complete data set
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rolling back into the Kongo base, the high-altitude KB crew along with Lead Scientist Cherrane and her field team report a good release & recovery although they did suffer mechanical issues with their vehicles that were thankfully able to be repaired with spare parts on hand
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
high-altitude KB crew have departed via land vehicles for the cold northern release point of bit.ly/Site_LP-Z23L. Lead Scientist Cheranne, always eager to get out in the field, flew out over the weekend to join them. Safe travels!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the end of this week also brings an end to our launch furlough. Second KSP campaign is ready to bring this year to a close! More on the many celestial happenings of the past few days over at our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=10134
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new contract signed for the high-alt bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ crew will take them north of the Kongo region to release a balloon that will haul up a new radiation instrument to gather data where the outer belt interacts with the atmosphere & creates aurora
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
CFO Mortimer is happy that we managed to squeeze out a slight profit last month! Thanks as always to our bit.ly/KSA_Patreon supporters for their help as well, with a new record for donations this month docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
several things to detail this past week - overall ops are running smooth. Rocket builds are on schedule & so is launch pad repair. R&D is quiet but that's also good in its own way. Anything you feel you might have missed can be found in our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=10089
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
returning supply ship has also brought back to Umbarg the low-altitude KerBalloon team who reported no troubles in releasing and recovering their payload. The crew say it was eerily similar way over there to what we have right in our own region
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
āØKERZZAH!āØ today we get to celebrate our 11th trip around Kerbol on space ship Kerbin since the KSA began operations back in 2016. That brings our celestial odometer up to 939,011,983.1456km or nearly 1 light hour. Here's to another 106.5 day trip around the sun š„
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have word from the Kongo the KB high-alt crew finally rolled back in three days overdue after they had to seek shelter from a massive sandstorm that blew through - thankfully after they had released and recovered their balloon, seen here on initial ascent
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a column of hardy land vehicles departed the Kongo base yesterday to trek out into the Great Desert, among them the high-altitude KerBalloon team. They will release a balloon over bit.ly/Area_KD-6392 to gather data on atmospheric moisture levels, among other things
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the first papers from the study, which concluded back in August and to which Genesis committed many missions to, have been published. This will allow for planners of the future surface colony to begin assessing any impact the nearby grassland flora will have on future surface dwellers twitter.com/ksa_missionctrā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
hopping aboard a supply ship, the low altitude KerBalloon crew will hookup with an ongoing scientific expedition over the weekend to release their payload over bit.ly/Zone_347CR. They should be back on the next boat later this month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
both bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ crews have new contracts CFO Mortimer closed the deals on today. Hi-alt will remain in the Kongo region and venture deeper into the Great Desert while low-alt joins an expedition out near ATN Central
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
thanks to increasing support from our bit.ly/KSA_Patreon donors, CFO Mortimer says all the unplanned expenses of Oct in addition to some new R&D didn't leave us as deep in the red as we could have been. Financial report is available here: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
weather cooperated for the high-altitude KerBalloon crew and the balloon payload did as well, coming down away from the mountains for an easy recovery this time after its ascent up to nearly 25km ASL. They will still remain stationed at the Kongo
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the radome has been completed on the tall hills west of KSC and will be hooked up to the Tracking Station by tomorrow, which means we can return to KSC next week! Due to security, it's tough working remotely for engineering and R&D teams w/o full file access
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
high-alt KerBalloon crew have departed for a short jaunt over to bit.ly/Site_JJ-3492. Although not far, they will still have to wait for good weather (clear skies) in order to release so they may not be back for several days. Or they could be back tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
while a lot of work remains in the investigation, all parties involved feel a point has been reached where we can release a statement not only on the events of this past week but the events of the past few years that led up to this brazen attack: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9965
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although things feel a bit turned upside down right now, business must go on and unaffected by events here at KSC the high-altitude bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ crew at the Kongo have been assigned a new contract and we'll once again send them the parts they need
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
due back last week, the high-altitude KerBalloon team once again had trouble out in the desert, although this time it was due to the balloon circling the mountains rather than clear them & landing high up on a slope that led to a tricky recovery w/ thankfully no injuries
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
#OTD in 2016 we sent up a low-altitude KerBalloon on its first actual mission carrying a scientific payload - kerbalspace.agency/?p=2170 - the KB program has been our most successful endeavor to date, having released over 100 balloons & grossed over 1M funds
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
wow that was a week already? Time flies when you're having fun, or are just excited like we are for another kerbed space mission next week! Get hype! Also get caught up on all that went down at KSC the past week: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9945
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
reporting no troubles, the low-altitude KerBalloon crew have returned to Kravass prior to KSC after collecting the payload that did indeed drift over to the other side of the mountain range known as The Wall, thankfully landing in a valley for easy recovery
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
high-altitude KerBalloon crew is departing today for bit.ly/Sector_HH-3947 - meteorologists are interested in this area since winds to the west of the mountains blow southeast while winds to the right blow northwest, almost creating a vortex around them
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although their destination is within driving range from KSC, the low-alt KB team will have to ferry to Kravass today via airship and head out from there using another airship to reach bit.ly/Zone_99KL3 since we still only have one UTV at our disposal
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the high-altitude bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ crew will continue to remain at the Kongo and have a new contract. We will be shipping them over the parts for their balloons and the research base has the facilities for them to be assembled on site
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new contract signed for bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ will see the low-altitude crew head up to Kravass to send a balloon up and over The Wall, which creates a meteorological boundary between two strong air currents to the north and south
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
due home at the end of last week, rough seas both ways extended travel time but the research vessel returned safely to port in Umbarg today with our low-altitude KerBalloon team. Although the trip there & back was horrendous, they loved being under the southern lights
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the high-altitude KerBalloon team overcame the troubles of their mission and have returned to Kongo River Research Base. They will stay there until their next assignment is confirmed in case it is in the region. Release photo shows just how barren it is out there
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
weekend, ho! October is only just getting started and we already have plenty of things to talk in more depth about in our weekly Ops Summary, so check it out - kerbalspace.agency/?p=9885 everyone have a relaxing weekend & try to take some time to gaze up at the night sky
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
September may have been a rough month financially, but we remain in decent standing with just enough funds to complete our planned operations for the year. Thanks as always to our bit.ly/KSA_Patreon supporters! docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
high-altitude KerBalloon team, waiting on good weather, have set out today with their airship for bit.ly/Area_ZX-363. In addition to the balloon release they will carry out some extended surface experiments in the harsh desert environment
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's now the high-altitude KerBalloon crew's turn to depart via airship to the Kongo River Research Facility, from where they will base their foray via same airship south to the Great Desert. Could have ferried crew in the Deuce for cheap but had to transport equipment anyways
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the low-altitude KerBalloon crew have put together two payloads & are shipping out aboard a research vessel for bit.ly/Zone_42-HGTG, an isolated glacial island over 1,000km away. We wish them safe travels on stormy seas! They should be back this weekend
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ contract will have the high-altitude team transfer to the Kongo River Research Base to then head south and release a balloon over the edge of the Great Desert. Could have normally packed along UTVs, instead will have to charter an airship
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new contract for bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ has been signed for the low-altitude crew. High-altitude crew continues to lick its wounds but should be ready to get back in action at the start of next month & CFO Mortimer is trying to line up a contract for them too
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
learn more about today's decision to delay the Mk2 orbital attempt in our weekly Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9801 Have a great weekend everyone, and we look forward to this one especially at KSC. Anyone know why?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
having one UTV will help with operations around KSC but a minimum of 3 are needed for KerBalloon crews to venture out into the wilderness. Until CFO Mortimer authorizes purchase of at least 2 more, KB program will see smaller profit margins chartering airships to get around
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Specialist Bill has been working with KerBalloon mechanics on the Utility Task Vehicles involved in last week's accident & reports they can salvage one with parts from the other two, whose frames are too badly wrecked
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all 3 UTVs have been recovered & returned to KSC. Bill will help inspect them to determine if any can be repaired. All the KerBalloon equipment they carried was a total loss. CFO Mortimer was obviously not pleased - he only barely ever manages to tolerate accidents with rockets
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
thankfully an airship supply run already scheduled out of Umbarg to/from the research site at the volcano has allowed our beleaguered KerBalloon crew to return home. They are all receiving proper medical aid. We have a salvage airship picking up the UTVs tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
wrap it up folks, weekend is here! Get caught up on all our operations this past week with additional details via our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9767 it's been mostly crummy weather all week so let's all hope for a turn-around this weekend
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
thankfully since our last major UTV tumble incident (kerbalspace.agency/?p=2485) cockpits have been reinforced and all but one crew escaped with only minor injury - the one with a broken arm is stable & not in need of medevac
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've received word of an accident on the flank of the volcano as the UTVs were making their ascent. The pathfinder vehicle tried to cut up a slope that was too steep, rolled down and took out the other two equipment carriers behind it. They all fell a few hundred meters
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
šāØHappy Operational Birthday to us!āØš KERZZAH!
today is the start of our 4th year in operation š„ Send us a gift - tell us what you enjoy most about the Kerbal Space Agency.
today is the start of our 4th year in operation š„ Send us a gift - tell us what you enjoy most about the Kerbal Space Agency.
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs of the high-alt KB crew will have by now stopped at the base of the volcano to allow the scientists at the small outpost there to properly calibrate the equipment they brought. They will drive for their release point near the summit tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the UTVs have been turned around, this time carrying the high-altitude crew and making for bit.ly/Sector_ABLE - on the slopes of the "extinct" volcano to the south for more gas measurements as scientists still think it may be waking up
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon crew out in the grasslands west of KSC have roamed within sight of the Umbarg aerial and checked in. We expect them to be rolling back into KSC through the Umbarg tunnel for safer overnight travel after they stop and drop off their data at KSA HQ
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
LOS from the KerBalloon as it fell back below terrain on its way back down. Chutes will deploy 2km above the ground to help the crew spot it, they will recover it once it lands (hopefully in an easily accessible area) and then begin the journey back
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are receiving telemetry from the KerBalloon released out west, clearing the mountains while passing through 15km - nearly to max altitude of 16.5km, where air pressure drops below 5kPa and the durable but thick envelope cannot expand any further. POP!!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we arranged with an airship enroute from Kravass to Umbarg to contact our KerBalloon team out in the field and the captain reports they made it to the release site safely. Hopefully next year we have satellites in orbit to let us talk to such ground expeditions directly
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the low-altitude KerBalloon crew have set out for bit.ly/Area_XX-233, which will take about 4-5 hours to reach, split up into two day cycles of travel, as the terrain through the highlands is too treacherous at night. They will release and return tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
to clarify - they *could* be done at the same time if one of the missions used an airship to get to the release site, recover and return but doing so would significantly cut profits from having to charter an airship vs. just putting fuel in our UTVs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
CFO Mortimer has closed the deal on two new bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ contracts, one each for the high- and low-altitude crews. However since both missions can be done via UTV traversal but we only have 3 UTVs, decision is they will not be performed at the same time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
many continued thanks to our bit.ly/KSA_Patreon donors for getting us into the green this past month! August financial report is available here: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦ we expect to see narrow margins for the remainder of the year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although they had to fight through nasty storms both ways, weather over the release site was favorable and the low-altitude KerBalloon crew have just made it safely back to port in Umbarg. Here is the balloon release off the deck with the cliffs of the ice shelf in the distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-altitude KerBalloon team have departed Umbarg aboard the research ship they are sharing with a polar expedition. They have the UTVs aboard and Specialist Bill helped equip them for cold weather as they expect to recover the balloon off the ice shelf
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
going into the weekend with a good report from the VAB saying the rocket is ready to go next week. Astronauts got in some good water training the past few days & will partake in a survival expedition this weekend. Catch up on what else went down via kerbalspace.agency/?p=9588
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-altitude KerBalloon team has a new contract signed for next week over the northern ice shelf. CFO Mortimer had negotiations for a high-altitude short-notice contract fall through when the airship we had chartered had to undergo sudden "maintenance" (we suspect Barons trying to mess with us)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Tongjess has pulled into port in Umbarg with both our KerBalloon teams aboard and well. All three missions were successful in releasing and collecting their balloons, whose data will be sent to our contractors. Ker-ching! CFO Mortimer very pleased to ink some black
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Tongjess gave us a hail as they passed by on their way from Site JJ-L1ZX to Zone 50-DKL, report that yesterday's deployment went off without a hitch and the high-altitude team was dropped off as planned without trouble as well. We wish them continued smooth sailing!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
both the high- and low-altitude KerBalloon teams have departed aboard MSV Tongjess for their missions. Since the high-altitude team would like to possibly wait for good release conditions, they will be dropped off 1st and picked up later, with UTVs for traversal
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
āØ Kerzzah! āØ today is the completion of our 10th trip around Kerbol since KSA operations began back in 2016 š« That's a total travel distance of 853,647,257km! In a straight line from the sun's center that would put us beyond the orbit of Plock. Here's to many more! š„
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
CFO Mortimer finally closed the deal on some contracts for bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ as agencies gradually begin to come back with requests for new data. Both high and low altitude KB teams will have a joint mission next week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our gains in July are thanks solely to our success in putting a kerbal in space. Now we have to again stave off bankruptcy with a successful orbital insertion later this year, an endeavor the majority of our remaining funds are dedicated to. No pressure! docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
have a look at the frequency of our missions over the past few years broken down by program. This is just one of many examples of data visualization we've published in the past. You can see more in our flickr album: flickr.com/photos/kerbal_ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the award will also enable us to send Val, next in rotation, to space no earlier than Sept while also sending up another unkerbed Mk1 w/ the older capsule for more testing of Extremis instruments. Not enough tho for another Progeny Mk7-A flight unless KB/Genesis can help w/income
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
CFO Mortimer has announced the Kerbin World Firsts organization released the bounty of 57,000 funds to our account in recognition of our accomplishment this past week of putting a kerbal into space. This is enough to get the Ascension Mk2 off the ground later this year!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the current Presider is running for a second term - he has neither interfered nor directly supported us but has acknowledged our potential for the advancement of kerbal society several times. A third candidate has been for some reason dodgy when asked about us
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
campaigns are ramping up towards this year's election for a new Presider in December - we are not directly controlled by the political machine however the government can make things difficult for us if they wanted. One of the candidates is heavily tied to Monolithic interests
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
allow us to remind everyone that bit.ly/KSA_Patreon is a way to help directly fund operations - more money means more rockets means more launches means more exploration! Of course, responsibility still lies with us to also produce viable commercial launch vehicles
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
swinging back into the red, June financial report leaves us without enough funds to launch an Ascension Mk2 unless we can put a kerbal in space this month. No pressure! Poor CFO Mortimer has quite a bit more gray hairs now... docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today marks our 6th revolution around Kerbol since the founding of the Kerbal Space Agency! š„ Here's a look back at some of what we managed to get done in our 1st revolution. Look backwards in the album for more flickr.com/photos/kerbal_ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-altitude KerBalloon crew have returned after another successful mission. Here's a release photo from the seemingly endless grassy plains to the north, except for the spire of a lonely mountain in the far distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
CFO Mortimer has already allowed for the purchase of a new Utility Task Vehicle however despite our low funds because otherwise we are just looking at more cost overhead in the long run to charter airships for nearby land releases
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
high-altitude KerBalloon crew have pulled back into port a day late. They had a successful release & recovery but a bad storm on the way back washed a UTV overboard that wasn't properly tied down. At least 3 UTVs are required for a safe overland traversal and now we have only 2
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-altitude KerBalloon team has departed for bit.ly/Zone_23A9N, too far for a UTV traversal (not that they are available now anyway) they've chartered an airship. Less net income - airship companies don't feel incentivized in any way to offer us decent rates
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
did you miss anything this week? Be sure you're all caught up with our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9196 Weekend goal for everyone - including you: spend some time sitting out under a clear night sky gazing into infinity and pondering the endless mysteries of the universe
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new contract has been inked for the low-altitude bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ crew, but Mortimer says no new negotiations are underway - we may be approaching data saturation again, which means most agencies won't need new missions for a while while they process what they already have
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after a day of rest & another for turnaround the high-altitude KerBalloon team is back out to sea for another release, this time to the north over bit.ly/Zone_564KL. Once again there's a chance the balloon could drift over land so UTVs are along for the ride as well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
CFO Mortimer is pleased with our gains in May, but we will still be struggling these next few months to afford the test launches needed to draw in more commercial partners and thus more money. it's a vicious balancing game. Full report: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
high-altitude KerBalloon team returned to port late last night from their expedition across the sea. They too had a mountainous payload recovery but had no issues. Here's a release photo from Saturday near 2nd sunset. You can barely make out the MSV in the lake ~600m below
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
learn more details about what went down this past week, including extra information on the new Mobile Launch Platform, in our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9183 what are everyone's plans for the weekend?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
research ship has departed Umbarg with our high-altitude KerBalloon team aboard so they can release a balloon over bit.ly/Sector_HA-K64. They've packed along the UTVs that got back yesterday so they can recover the payload over land
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-altitude KerBalloon team have rolled back into KSC, minus their one crew member who is recovering well in Umbarg. They admit that the payload really wasn't in that bad of a spot - just goes to show that even the simple tasks can get you sometimes
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
an airship flying from Sheltered Rock to Umbarg responded to a distress beacon from our low-altitude KerBalloon team. A crew member needed a medevac for injuries sustained in a fall from a cliff while recovering the payload - thankfully not life-threatening
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
also congrats to the low-altitude KerBallon team on their 50th balloon release!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
earlier today during launch prep we got a short connection to the low-altitude KerBalloon as it reached maximum altitude and drifted just barely within sight of KSC. Good to know the crew had a nominal release. They should be back tomorrow after recovering it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the low-altitude KerBalloon team have set out for bit.ly/Area_51KL2, about 233km of traversal that will take them roughly 5-6 hours to complete over two day cycles. They are geared up and ready to mountain climb if needed to retrieve the payload
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the high-altitude bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ crew has another contract but they need to wait for a new shipment of balloons to arrive next week before they can actually perform any missions. Logistics fail! Well, we aren't perfect you know
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
local mission for the low-altitude bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ team will see them trek north to gather some data over the mountains while also performing a secondary contract mission of deploying seismic sensors in the area
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mortimer has closed a deal for the high-altitude bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ crew to receive a new contract and is still negotiating a contract on behalf of the low-altitude team as well. He's put a lot of pressure on himself to show a profit this month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are all still reeling from the events of yesterday. Aldeny will be a sorely missed ray of sunshine around campus - his energetic personality could motivate anyone. Altho it's hard, we must push on in his memory. Our Ops Summary has details on that: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9083
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
one day we'll have spacecraft in orbit that can confirm such events, either directly or by their after-effects. In this case, the dust will likely fall into the ocean and create a super bloom of microscopic plant life feeding off the nutrients within it. Ain't life amazing?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-altitude KerBalloon crew have returned from a successful mission with no report of being directly affected by an asteroid impact. They did note the sky took on a reddish tinge from dust however as they were leaving so it seems there was an impact
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
sliding backwards again, April financial report just published by Mortimer shows we should still have just enough money even if we continue to suffer losses to make to where we can launch commercial payloads later this year. Otherwise R&D will be shut down docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
high-altitude KerBalloon crew have just pulled back into port after a successful release and recovery, they just had to wait for ideal conditions to send the balloon up to keep icing from affecting its ascent
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
SGQ-958(C) is confirmed to be entering our atmosphere in a few days over the western edge of the Great Desert. It will be ~200km from where the low-altitude KerBalloon crew will be operating so we don't expect they will be in danger, but they were warned before departure
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-altitude KerBalloon team is now ready to head out on their own expedition to bit.ly/Site_T1A402 ~600km away by sea and land. They have the UTVs with them aboard MSV Tongjess for the trek to the release point
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a relatively mundane week here at the KSC but as always exciting things are on the horizon. Catch anything you may have missed or find more details on what transpired in our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=8969
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
high-altitude KerBalloon team have left Umbarg aboard MSV Lymun to sail ~1200km for bit.ly/Area_EE-22G. Assuming they can release without weather delays, the trip should take them at least three days. Seas are rough near the poles however & weather is stormy
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
contracts signed for both crews of bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ will be carried out this month into next. As Mortimer expected, income has fallen due to the increasing length of missions. Hopefully soon some local opportunities will be available again
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we bet you all thought *next week* was going to be the exciting one! We made quite a few ambitious announcements this past week, so let's take a closer look at what still needs to be done to get something up into orbit in our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=8935
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the overall success rate so far for every mission we've conducted across all programs is 86% - not too shabby! You can see success rates for individual programs on their page (kerbalspace.agency/?page_id=1824) & also success rates for individual vessels
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
thankfully no one was seriously injured by the rocks they were pelted with. We have a writeup on the site to provide more info on what happened: kerbalspace.agency/?p=8922 the government is currently discussing what actions, if any, should be taken to contact these isolated kerbs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our high-alt KerBalloon crew is back, partially successful since they failed to recover 1 of the 2 balloons. Why they failed however is amazing news - they were attacked by an unknown group of kerbals that ambushed them from caves near the landing site!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
note that our profits for March would have been even more marginal if not for our Patreon donors, so thank you! Pledge your support of the KSA and help us continue to explore: patreon.com/KerbalSpaceAgeā¦ every little bit can make a difference!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Head of Finances Mortimer confirms we had another profitable month in March, although just barely and only because Genesis is still largely on hold until C7 gets its affairs in order and spending on Dhumla testing is nonexistent. Full report: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rolling back into KSC just after sunset the low-altitude KerBalloon team reports a routine and successful mission, although they did have a close brush with a sinkhole on the way home & one crew member required a visit to the med center for a fungal infection
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kravass is too far away to pick up the low-altitude KerBalloon signal over the horizon but the team should have made their release by now. They will be doing some additional field work on the ground before heading back to KSC tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-altitude KerBalloon crew have departed for their 3-day trek out to bit.ly/Sector_RS-D83. Since the whole trip is near the maximum ~600km range of 3 UTVs, we have an airship at Kravass ready to fly down and supply them with fuel after they arrive for the trip back
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-altitude KerBalloon crew has a new contract to revisit an arid region they last sampled back in 2017 (kerbalspace.agency/?p=5852) next week for updated readings, making the ~300km traversal by UTV to bit.ly/Sector_RS-D83
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
safe travels to the high-altitude KB team setting out today for bit.ly/Area_23-KTB. They will be releasing two separate payloads to see how each one meanders across the mountains. They'll be gone for about 2 weeks
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon crew just rolled back into KSC, report the new UTV handled itself superbly and the payload was recovered without issue. Time for the low-altitude crew managers to get back to the contract negotiations next week...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
operations are in a bit of a lull right now but still there are things to report in our weekly Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=8859 everyone have a happy weekend!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KB crew is camping out for the night cycle out in the Grasslands but they are able to contact us through Umbarg to send this photo of their release earlier today, looking northeast from near the peak of the volcano
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rising at an average speed of 5m/s, the balloon reached maximum altitude a few minutes ago and telemetry data shows it is now descending under chutes after a brief free-fall back down to thicker air. KB crew should recover it shortly and be back at KSC later today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
acquisition of signal! Balloon is rising nominally through 3.5km on its way up to 16.5km, where internal pressure of the expanding gas will overcome the envelope integrity and burst, sending it plummeting back towards the ground. It will deploy chutes and land shortly after
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
standing by to receive signal from the KerBalloon as it rises over the horizon in sight of the Umbarg aerial, if all went well and the crew reached their release point around 2nd sunset and didn't have to stop and camp earlier on the route
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-alt KerBalloon crew just popped to the surface at Umbarg after taking the underground tunnel earlier today. They still have about 3 hours of overland traversal to cover the ~110km to the release site & should be able to send up the balloon after 3rd sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the new UTV has arrived ahead of tomorrow's low-alt KerBalloon mission & Bill is wrenching with the rest of the HAB crew to get it converted from stock to properly suit our needs. This old photo shows them performing routine maintenance on our original fleet
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
high-altitude KerBalloon crew have sealed the deal on a contract today to head out to the Great Desert next week and explore air patterns over a complex keographic feature of mountainous terrain along with a keological team expedition
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-alt KB team has signed a contract that will have them investigate gas levels in the air over an extinct volcano that is possibly only dormant. We helped look at it back in 2017 with a Civvie flight: kerbalspace.agency/ksa/?p=5144 twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
congratulations to the KerBalloon program on surpassing šš100 balloon releasesšš with their latest mission! a great milestone - here's to many more š„ They are closing in on another big milestone too - anyone see it? kerbalspace.agency/?page_id=2041
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
learn more about today's semi-successful launch escape system pad abort test and more happenings from this past week in our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=8845 Sadly yes, this will delay getting a kerbal aboard for a sub-orbital flight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here's another photo from one of their release locations, several lakes (2 of 7 shown here) where the water level periodically raises due to groundwater forced up from an aquifer and becomes a single giant lake that is a temporary tributary to the Kongo
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-alt KerBalloon team returned home a few hours ago, completed 4 successful releases and recoveries. They did lose one of our 3 remaining UTVs to a sinkhole but thankfully the crew inside managed to get out in time and it was a fuel carrier so no equipment was lost
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
another photo from the Kongo River basin where the low-altitude KerBalloon crew released from on Thursday. This lowland by the mountains north of the river mouth was once a flooded marshland several hundred thousand years ago
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-alt KB crew doing well out in the Kongo River basin. Here's near where they released their second balloon earlier this week, along the bank of the river looking east as it turns northwards before bending back westward & meandering another ~700km towards the sea
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/FebFinances report posted. Last month we nearly recouped our losses from January, thanks in part to our bit.ly/KSA_Patreon subscribers. Become a Space Envoy today and help support the KSA!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
high-altitude KerBalloon team has pulled back into port at Umbarg. Nasty weather delayed their travel but did not cause any damage. Although they failed to recover one balloon, spare parts allowed them to release the 2nd, which was recovered successfully
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ops Director @DKerman_KSA has been mostly stone-walled in Sheltered Rock attempting to get some answers on the whole C7 debacle. Learn more along with what else went on this week in our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=8798
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although scheduled to return earlier today, no sign of the High-Alt KB mission is not yet cause for any alarm. Long voyages like this can be beset by storms delaying passage. Expedition has a week of spare food to last them at sea, and can live off the land far longer if ashore
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
high-altitude KerBalloon mission is still ongoing - no news is good news. They will have by now released & recovered one balloon and should be sailing further north, where they will release the second. They are due to arrive back in port at Umbarg on the 28th
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-altitude KerBalloon crew is setting out today for the Kongo River Research Center to carry out several contracts over the next few weeks in and around the river basin. They along with all their equipment will be ferried over via airship by the end of the weekend
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ Low-Altitude team has signed a multi-contract deal of its own. They will base out of the Kongo River Research Station and conduct releases around the river basin over the next month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
tomorrow the High-Altitude KerBalloon crew (the program has added workers and split into two separate teams) will set off aboard a MSV for a 3-4 day journey to their research location, over 2,000km of sea travel. By air it would only be about half that distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerbin has many wonderful locales on the surface that we have explored over the past few years, you can check them all out in this photo album on our flickr page: flickr.com/photos/kerbal_ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ has two contracts it will satisfy as part of a science expedition that will sail to the furthest body of water, which is actually closer than you would think except for land getting in the way
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no donations are reported as nothing came in via Ko-Fi. Patreon donors will pay starting in Feb so that's when they will be reported. $1 per month can make a difference if enough people participate! patreon.com/KerbalSpaceAgeā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Head of Finances Mortimer has our books balanced for January. We expected a loss thanks to the Dhumla testing but the failure of the Progeny Mk6-I mission was a big blow. Not a strong fiscal start to 2019... docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon crew has made it back to KSC after a successful mission. Low-altitude balloons can be released in all kinds of bad weather but they had great conditions out there - you can just make out the rising balloon towards the upper right in the light of a waning gibbous Mun
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
acquisition of signal! Balloon telemetry showing it nearing 4km on its way to 16km as it pops over the horizon and links with us through the Umbarg aerial, which has a 500km range. Good to know all is well out there. They will return tomorrow after conducting some add'l fieldwork
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KB team should have reached their destination over an hour ago but we have no way to contact them. Controllers are on standby here in Mission Control however because we should be able to pickup the balloon signal after it is launched sometime within the next hour
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
been a while since they've had a contract close enough for a UTV traversal. The column heads out like this, with the lead pathfinder vehicle several dozen meters ahead once they are off the road to find a safe route for the remaining two carrying balloon equipment
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon crew is gearing up with 3 Utility Task Vehicles to head out for bit.ly/Site_32-K6E. The ~145km traverse will take them around 3-3.5 hours and they should arrive before or during sunset. They will launch their balloon during the night
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new contract for bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ will have them ready a balloon tomorrow & Mon to deploy on Tues for Rokea out in the desert west of KSC. it's been a while since they've had a "local" mission and are also getting the UTVs ready for the overland traverse
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our KerBalloon crew has just pulled back into port at Umbarg with the expedition. They had a good release and recovery, although one crew member was badly injured on the climb up a steep slope to get the payload. Get well soon!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon crew have departed for Umbarg via UTVs, where they will drive aboard the research ship that will take them out to bit.ly/Site_23-O3N for their high-altitude temperature study. The vehicles will also allow them to explore the island more
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
being stuck underground for so long gave society an excuse to develop a new way to mark the passage of time, but we still like to make note of a "kerbolar year" on occasions like today - the start of our 8th trip around the sun since the KSA was founded back in Sep 2016! š„šāØ
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new contract signed by bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ will be their first mission of 2019, set to depart next week - hitching a ride with an expedition that will be exploring one of the larger islands found in Kerbin's oceans
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we didn't have nearly as many photos to sort through this past year as we did at the end of 2017 so we've already picked out our top 100 images from 2018: flickr.com/photos/kerbal_ā¦ overall favorite is the Ascension Mk1 going vertical for the 1st time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our bit.ly/OpsSummary_1-4ā¦ is now posted in case you missed anything that transpired this short week. Also, @DKerman_KSA has more information about the Patreon/Ko-Fi announcement earlier today in his Desk Notes that should address any questions/concerns
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mortimer has a post on the website with more details on our current financial state (not dire, but definitely hurting) and also includes instructions on how you can help support the KSA if you are interested kerbalspace.agency/?p=8272
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Head of Finances Mortimer has completed his financial analysis from 2018 and you can see the summary sheet here: bit.ly/2018FiscalSummā¦. We have also decided that we will begin accepting donations as a way for the public to lend support
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
final day of general staff meetings for all programs. Debates have raged but everyone is still friends so far. Great to see so many opinions and ideas being expressed by team members on the various goals that should be pursued this year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
operational teams from all our programs will be meeting over the course of this week to review 2018 and solidify plans for 2019. We'll have all the details next week about new launch times as well as any additional 2019 goals we didn't mention in our last tweet
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
šš HAPPY NEW YEAR!! šš
we hope everyone is having a great holiday and look forward to hitting the ground running tomorrow to begin solidifying our plans for 2019, which is looking to be another exciting year for space exploration š„āØ
we hope everyone is having a great holiday and look forward to hitting the ground running tomorrow to begin solidifying our plans for 2019, which is looking to be another exciting year for space exploration š„āØ
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
finally, a look at release sites for all the KerBalloons that were lofted this past year, not counting any released at KSC for rocket launch upper wind monitoring. KerBalloon team also spent more time farther afield than in previous years
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
given the financial struggle we had this year, ending up with a huge loss, Head of Finances Mortimer is going to be looking very carefully at whether it was our fault in over-reaching ambition or more a matter of unfortunate external circumstances (*cough*Monolith*cough*)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this week is administrative-focused, getting everything from this past year organized and filed away for review at the start of next year. We'll have a financial analysis in early Jan but for now the basic report including this month has been released bit.ly/Finances_12-18
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
2018 operations have officially ceased! We will resume operations on Jan 2nd, 2019. We are very pleased we were able to squeeze in so much this final week, here is one last Ops Summary to close out the year: kerbalspace.agency/?p=8189
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
unfortunately our KerBalloon crew was not able to secure passage on the expedition and will end their operations for 2018. Here's hoping things pick back up for them next year - they do have some promising negotiations planned for new contracts
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
economy remains shaky, KerBalloon still finding it difficult to land contracts on their own and are looking for more science expeditions to tag along with. It's possible they could hitch a ride out to the new Kongo River Research Station next week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the fiscal roller coaster ride continues this year, as Head of Finances Mortimer has published bit.ly/FinanceReport_ā¦. We're glad though Genesis was able to afford to continue Dhumla production off-site so it could be ready for testing sooner rather than later
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all crew have been recalled this weekend to begin active duty once again starting next week. Everyone else is still working through the weekend and almost around the clock to get KSC back to operational status. Right now that's looking like sometime towards the end of next week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we just got word from the surface that the EM field has collapsed down to 150m! It will continue to be monitored this week and if it looks to be holding steady we'll begin the work of getting the affected buildings back up to operational status over the next few weeks
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are now just 2 days from projected closure of the bore hole into the crystal base of the Monolith. EM field remains stable - scientists were hoping to see it begin to reduce by now. A large influx of pilgrims has begun to arrive for what they believe will be an event this wknd
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/KSA_Finances_1ā¦ has been posted by Head of Finances Mortimer. We managed a small profit this month thanks to the science missions that were able to be carried out off campus
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a reminder that this expedition was sent to the area where two meteors suspected of carrying exotic material had fallen, but if any obvious signs of this were uncovered in the meteorites collected, it has not been publicly revealed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the expedition also brought back a few hundred grams worth of meteorites that were recovered, easy to spot against the harsh white polar landscape at the ice caps. Underwater dredging also produced some potential samples, all of which will be analyzed over the next few months
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're glad to have our KerBalloon team back safe from their south arctic expedition. They released two balloons and gathered lots of radiation data from the lower and upper atmospheres, though wind currents were not quite what they expected - also exciting data!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the effort to penetrate the Monolith has been indefinitely suspended and the bore hole will be allowed to heal. Current estimates put this happening by mid-November. We still don't know if this will bring about the end of the EM field as well, but everyone is hoping it will
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the south polar expedition to which our KerBalloon crew are attached has left port in Umbarg. The balloon release/recovery will take only a day or two but the search for meteorites will go on for at least two weeks in the area around bit.ly/Site_RAD-073
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Head of Finances Mortimer hasn't had much bookkeeping to do this past month but thanks to KerBalloon we have a small profit to post for September at least docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our KerBalloon crew will be attaching to yet another expedition as scientists head for the south polar caps to search for meteorites and further investigate the increased radiation levels found at those latitudes twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although no new power outages have been reported, repercussions from the ones last month are still being felt as financial markets took a big hit & have not yet fully recovered. KerBalloon is finding it difficult to close any contracts with a reasonable rate of return
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
āØš happy birthday to us!! šāØ Today marks the start of Year 3 for KSA operations. Our founder and Ops Director @DKerman_KSA has some words to share on the current state of things š„ kerbalspace.agency/?p=8039
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon team have returned to Sheltered Rock with the rest of their expedition, will be back in Umbarg tomorrow to turn over their data to Kerbodyne. Very nice to be able to make at least *some* income this month...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon mission has departed for bit.ly/Area_M-32Q to release a low-altitude balloon and gather meteorological measurements while a separate science team examines the small lake, which is highly acidic likely from volcanic activity deep underground
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon program is the only one that can still run fairly normally & have finally got all their support teams supplies & equipment transferred from KSC and setup offsite here in Umbarg to begin accepting new mission contracts, like this one to bit.ly/Area_M-32Q
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although we pulled a net profit for mission expenses, the cost of buying up parts for 5 new Ascension Mk1 rockets, even minus the engines, has once again set us back in the red. August financial report is now available: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we now know the EM field is still active because the bore hole is in fact continuing to fill, just at a pace now only measurable in days. New estimates say it could take as long as 3 months to heal. Here is an updated report for the past 2 weeks: kerbalspace.agency/?p=7933
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
@spacepotato101 Good news! The rumors were true but they just brought on new R&D staff - forum.kerbalspaceprogram.com/index.php?/topā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
We havenāt heard of any plans from KerBalloon for envelopes that can handle higher altitudes. There are rumors that their entire R&D staff quit earlier this year twitter.com/rocketbeing/stā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have released the report on the events that occurred this past Tuesday, which will serve as our Ops Summary for this week. Additional updates will be posted as we get more information on the EM field surrounding KSC. kerbalspace.agency/?p=7917
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
high-level KSA staff meeting will be held tomorrow to work up a full assessment of the current situation and decide what steps will be taken moving forward over the next several days. We will have details in our Ops Summary
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
surface team has returned, reports there is a consistent EM field over KSC, tho they found it has a radius of 10km in all directions (assumed out over the water as well) & is not specifically directed @ the space center. Generated current is strong enough to still fry electronics
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
website and Ops Tracker are now back online as electrical services here in Umbarg become more stable. Still no word from the team dispatched to KSC, but they are not overdue unless they fail to return or get in contact with us by later today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we will release more information on the current situation once we have a better idea what we are dealing with; the past two days have mainly been working to recover basic infrastructure & ensure all our injured employees are being taken care of
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
hello from KSA HQ in Umbarg! Just calling out to let everyone know we are okay - electrical services are gradually coming back online in all caverns here, but KSC remains off limits until a team sent out yesterday to assess the Monolith's new activity has returned
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
project scientists are monitoring the Monolith for any signs of its old subsonic/EM disturbances as well as the crystal veins locally and off in Kravass & Umbarg for any electrical activity. So far, all signs point to the Monolith remaining inactive
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
from roughly 30 meters below the Monolith researchers continue to carefully bore up into the crystalline structure they hope leads into the edifice itself. They have nearly reached the bottom and have slowed down to ensure they aren't damaging or triggering anything in the way
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Head of Finances Mortimer has posted up our fiscal report for July. Thanks to launch delays and the failed Progenitor mission, this month went far deeper into the red than we planned. Here's hoping we can bounce back a bit in August docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon crews are back at Kravass w/ the rest of the expedition. They successfully released & recovered their high-alt balloon. Congrats on the 50th release! Lead Scientist Cheranne is eager for them to return to KSC tmrw so she & her fellow researchers can dig into the data
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
north polar expedition with our KerBalloon crew set out earlier today, we expect them back sometime next week as they will possibly have to wait for ideal conditions to release the high-altitude balloon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon crews have put together a high-altitude probe and have set out for Umbarg to catch an airship to Kravass where they will link up with the rest of the expedition crew and set out for the polar region tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSC has weathered the storms and we'll be moving operations back to the campus today. We will have updates throughout the day on new dates for the various missions that were put on hold as staff get re-situated and back on track
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
latest report from the surface is the high pressure system has collapsed and strong storms are now sweeping through the region. KSC is buttoned up and shouldn't have any issues with the weather although flooding is a minor concern
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
science team was back up on the surface earlier at mid-day to gather temperature data & took a photo as they headed back to Umbarg - rarely do we see perfectly clear skies at KSC. You can almost feel the heat coming off the photo. It was baking up there, reaching 102Ā°F!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a new contract signed for bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ will see an expedition similar to what went to the Badlands set out northwards to gather science over the tundra and ice caps of the northern polar region, though it will only launch a high-altitude balloon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the last episode, back in 2016, lasted several days. Hopefully this one is shorter. Either way, both Progeny launches are now suspended and will be assigned new launch dates once we can comfortably resume surface activity twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this has happened before & after much investigation scientists still don't fully understand what's going on but say a mixture of ocean currents, jet stream bending and moisture levels in the air can apparently combine under the right conditions to form a very localized heat wave
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are suspending all surface operations and pulling back all staff to Umbarg HQ due to temperatures increasing near 100Ā°F as a high-pressure system sits over our region. We just can't keep our facilities cool enough in this heat for a proper work environment
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon mission to the Badlands has returned after a successful trip. It was night for them during the Ascension launch but unfortunately it was too low over the northern horizon for them to see it re-enter
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with maritime reports still showing strong storms out at sea yesterday, the KerBalloon team waited until better reports came in today to set out once more for their trek across the ocean via airship to reach the Badlands under bit.ly/Sector_X1-37A
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
weather is worse out at sea apparently - airship returned to Umbarg after being battered by winds so much the captain was fearful of the gondola's structural integrity where it attached to the gas envelope. They will set back out tomorrow for another attempt
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon crew have departed Umbarg in an airship bound for bit.ly/Sector_X1-37A in the heart of the Badlands, a low-lying hot and inhospitable area that few care to explore. They will return next week. Safe travels!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ has finally landed their dream contract of an expedition out to the Badlands to send up both a high and low-altitude balloon laden with science instruments. Bob & Bill slightly bummed they can't tag along
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon crew is pulling back into port at Umbarg, everyone weathered the journey okay and payload was recovered to return to KSC for delivery to Kerbodyne next week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Lymun has departed Umbarg with a KerBalloon crew to head for bit.ly/Zone_6-7DD, a journey of over 2,000km that will take over half a day to reach. They are expected back in port on Saturday
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a new contract signed for KerBalloon will take the crew on their longest journey yet although the route is well-mapped thanks to sea cabling operations for the Arekibo observatory carried out across those waters
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Head of Finances Mortimer is pleased to see we pulled off another month of profit, although he is still concerned it's mainly due to the large grant from the Interstellar Exploration Foundation docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
balloon recovery underway soon as it nears max altitude. The goo will be separated again in the lab upon return, some being placed next to varying amounts of kuudite ore while some control samples receive none
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KB crews have released a balloon from bit.ly/Area_PB-G4. As it passes 16km one of the two mystery goo samples in the containment unit will be sealed and re-pressurized while the second remains exposed all the way up to the upper atmosphere
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ will be heading out to sea for some more goo studies coupled with contract work while bit.ly/GenesisProgram has finally worked out a deal for the next round of Civvie atmospheric sample gathering
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
unfortunately the continued parts shortage means we can only ready a single balloon for the launch, which means if any delay goes to the point where we need to source new wind data, we'll have to scrub until the next day cycle for another balloon to be assembled
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon is experiencing another contract lull but at least crews have a rocket launch this week to support and keep them busy. Technically these balloon releases don't fall directly under the KerBalloon program, they just use the same type of balloons
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all three UTvs have safely returned to KSC and a team of lab technicians on call have come in to move the goo sample back to the hazmat area so an initial study can be performed immediately
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/OpSummary6-11-ā¦ has all the info you need to stay on top of all that is going on, with additional details that are too verbose for tweets during the week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
airship relay was on station with 3rd sunrise earlier and just passed on report from the UTVs that they have reached the landing site and are recovering the payload. They'll be back after 4th sunrise if no troubles arise on the traverse
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
envelope failure has sent the payload plummeting back towards Kerbin, goo containment unit successfully exposed the sample and is now closed back up for the descent. UTvs will continue navigating around the mountains to reach the area next day cycle to hunt it down
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
balloon was tracking east back towards KSC but a shift in winds as it neared the upper atmosphere is sweeping it back west over the mountains, much to the annoyance of the balloon crew, who will have to drive around them
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have release and signal acquisition, crew is packing up and hopping back into the UTVs to follow. This will be the goo's first ride into the upper atmosphere and scientists are eager to see how lack of oxygen + higher radiation levels affect it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs made the climb with only minor troubles, now at 1.2km and preparing for release under mostly clear skies. Not ideal, but they were supposed to run this mission earlier this week so they don't have time to wait for better conditions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's still fairly dark out but UTVs have departed for bit.ly/Zone_MO247 and will hit the rough highlands by the time the sun has risen high enough to provide useful relief on the terrain to help them navigate to the release site
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today marked the end of our 6th trip around Kerbol since KSA operations began back in late 2016. āØš Kerzzah! šāØ Here's to yet another awesome Kerbolar year in space exploration! š„
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KB crew made it to Sheltered Rock, even passing through the edge of the storm turned out to be a rough ride. They'll hop an airship back to KSC and prep to run their next mission by the end of the week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
balloon on this mission will just transmit data and not be recovered, however we have been reimbursed the cost of the reusable parts that will be lost, and sometimes sacrifices must be made in the pursuit of science
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KB crews left earlier today for bit.ly/Site_Q3P-010. The short notice meant they had to hitch a ride aboard a merchant vessel set to sail by. Cheaper, but ultimately will take them longer to get back to KSC to perform the mission this one postponed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Maritime Weather Service has reports of a strong storm they want to investigate closer by launching a balloon into it by tomorrow before it dissipates. bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ can accommodate the short notice w/instrument swap of unused balloon from Ascension launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the rocket survived!! Lymun picked up its locator ping and was able to reach Sheltered Rock with the news. It is submerged in ~400m of water and we will have a salvage ship onsite early next week to haul it up and bring it back. Whoop whoop! \[0o]/
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket should have returned by now, over land or water? Hard to tell - it's right near the coast. MSV Lymun is in the process of retrieving the KerBalloon launched earlier & will then head for the landing zone to see if it can pick up a locator beacon (land) or sonar ping (water)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have LIFT OFF!! Initial ascent is slow after launch as full thrust is not needed & would just add wear to the pad, engine clamp, and possibly the service towers. Once the rocket is clear of the towers the engines throttle up to full thrust for a TWR of 1.7
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although it's been a while since the originally planned launch time, upper-level wind data remains valid. If this launch attempt fails though we will have to release a second balloon and wait an hour for it to ascend into the upper atmosphere for new data
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Engineer Simon has conferred with Ascension engineers and all agree we can widen our constraints. FD Lanalye has reset the count to T-2min but cloudy skies have returned. Broken clouds are approaching though & L-0 is set for 21:07 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
full check of all systems has not turned up any issues that may have been missed during preflight ops, so conclusion is the inputted constraints on chamber pressure did not take into account this engine has undergone multiple static fires and is not brand new
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
abort thrown was related to engine chamber pressure, which was slightly lower than what the AFCS was programmed to expect. Controllers will now work to determine why. Tank pressure? Pumps? Mixture? Meanwhile, rocket can and will remain primed for launch. Standby!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
AFCS threw an abort after engine ignition at approx T-3s. Engine was automatically shut down and controllers are reviewing abort data to determine if we can attempt another launch. Engine can be ignited as often as needed as long as it's hooked up to pad equipment
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-1m] assuming all is Go on final primary station readiness poll at T-30s here is what will happen in the final moments leading up to launch. Don't forget the Ops Tracker has real-time ascent updates: ops.kerbalspace.agency/?vessel=ascensā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] Final readiness polls complete: Wx: GO; Range: GO; Flight: GO; Tracking: GO; Ops Director: Launch permission granted! š GO ASCENSION š FTS transitioning to internal power, service tower boom locks disabled to prepare for retraction
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h20m] KB crew has released a weather balloon to ascend up and assess upper-level winds by launch time. Surface winds out of the SSW tailing the rocket give us a large margin but are currently nowhere near violation levels
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
š
Sunrise/Sunsetš
@ KSC (UTC-4)
6/8
#2š07:27:41 š 09:38:02
#3š13:28:32 š 15:38:53 !!š!!
#4š19:29:23 š 21:39:44
6/9
#1š01:30:14 š 03:40:35
@ KSC (UTC-4)
6/8
#2š07:27:41 š 09:38:02
#3š13:28:32 š 15:38:53 !!š!!
#4š19:29:23 š 21:39:44
6/9
#1š01:30:14 š 03:40:35
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ is taking on another materials science mission and will piggyback them on the inline goo containment unit so we can see how the bacteria handle the upper-atmosphere, which not only lacks oxygen but radiation protection
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
an exhausted KB crew have rolled into Umbarg, seeing no point in continuing overland to KSC when they could rest sooner. They'll return to KSC tomorrow with the payload that was successfully recovered
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've had envelope failure at max altitude - score one for dry desert air keeping any ice from forming on the envelope during its ascent. Balloon will be coming back down for crews to recover on land then head back for KSC next day cycle
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
balloon has cleared the horizon passing through 6.8km ASL and Umbarg has a lock on the signal. Drifting northwest, UTV crews are working to keep pace on the ground. Hopefully it stays out of the water
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
calm, dry desert air means clear skies for balloon release, now ascending towards max altitude of 24.9km, where the pressure falls below 1kPa and the envelope is no longer able to contain its expanding gas
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon team made it out to the desert safely, relay comms airship will keep us in touch but can't relay telemetry. Balloon will be able to see Umbarg's comm tower soon after release however, and they will pass the data on to us
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon crew had to turn around and drive to Umbarg with mechanical issues. They will need to lay over the rest of the day for repairs and try again tomorrow to reach their release site
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs are setting out with sunrise to have all day for their 143km traversal out to bit.ly/Zone_MOI24, looking to release a balloon next sunrise if sky conditions are favorable, but they have provisions to stay 3 days if needed to wait things out
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Head of Finances Mortimer is still happy with our meager income this month considering the size of our expense column and the failure to recover valuable science data from the last rocket flight. Full financial report: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb & Val have just completed their final mission for the Genesis program! Tomorrow they will officially transfer over with Bob and Bill to Ascension and begin to focus solely on training for space flight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
satisfied with the data collected on the previous mission, Probodobodyne Inc have signed on for another contract with bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ for next week after Bob, Bill & the KB crew construct a high-altitude balloon these next two days
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have booster ignition and the rocket has cleared the launch base on its ascent to explore space far north of the equator! Initial boost phase will end at L+35s, pitch nominal and spin-up has begun to stabilize the rocket (Minmus is hiding in the clouds)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h20m] high-altitude balloon has been released, launch craft is only big enough for a single balloon so the crew is heading back to pick up another one in case we need to hold and require updated upper-atmosphere wind information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch craft from MSV Tongjess has arrived onshore to pickup the balloon team, which needs to release from the south while Tongjess heads north for range duties
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
š
Sunrise/Sunsetš
@ KSC (UTC-4)
5/29
#2š 09:03:59 š12:30:40
#3š 15:04:50 !?š?! š18:31:31
#4š 21:05:41
5/30
#1š00:32:22 š 03:06:32
#2š06:33:13
@ KSC (UTC-4)
5/29
#2š 09:03:59 š12:30:40
#3š 15:04:50 !?š?! š18:31:31
#4š 21:05:41
5/30
#1š00:32:22 š 03:06:32
#2š06:33:13
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs have finally rolled back into KSC after a long and exhausting journey but happily were able to collect the payload intact to deliver to the science labs for analysis and handing over data to Probodobodyne next week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/OpSummary5-21-ā¦ will get you caught up on anything you may have missed this week, as well as providing additional information. Everyone enjoy the weekend - launch next week!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have envelope failure short of max altitude, just shy of 22.8km. UTVs report they are not far from where the balloon should parachute down. After collecting the payload they will return to KSC over the following day cycle
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
clearing the mountains to the west at 6km ASL we have acquired telemetry signal from the balloon from the tracking dish atop the VAB. We will provide redundant tracking for the ground team as they work to keep pace over the rough terrain
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no change to weather, no choice but to let the balloon begin its ascent to 24.9km so it can reach it and return before full darkness sets in. Teams are piling back into the UTVs to track and follow for recovery
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
sunrise out in the Highlands and KB team reports persistent cloud cover. Contract stipulates release today so eventually they will have to let it go but do have some time to wait for skies to clear
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
slowed by terrain and then by fading light UTVs have made it to the release site after 104km of traversal, will setup over this night cycle to be ready at 3rd sunrise and hope for clear skies to reduce the chances of icing during ascent into the upper atmosphere
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
airship coming on station to provide comm relay as UTVs enter Highlands & pass behind terrain. Why not use a Deuce? It could stay aloft as long as needed for this mission but if any inflight emergency came up after dark it would not be able to return and land safely at KSC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill & Bob lead a column of UTVs out towards bit.ly/Zone_MOI65, traveling much like in this photo, with the vehicles carrying the balloon, extra fuel and supplies in the rear so the lead "pathfinder" vehicle encounters any bad terrain first
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill is wrenching on the Utility Task Vehicles, prepping for an overland bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ mission at the end of the week. Bob is assisting with the construction of the high-altitude balloon probe in the VAB
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb & Val are standing down for the day but will attempt their flight again tomorrow. Goo remains healthy in the lab. The sample flown via balloon yesterday came back dead, but instruments in the container did collect data while it was exposed & active
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
earlier we launched & recovered a low-altitude balloon used to test the inline mystery goo containment unit. The radial version is being installed on the Deuce for flight testing tomorrow. Lead Scientist Cheranne's team will examine the samples to determine how they fared
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
who else is ready for the weekend?? Before you go though, be sure you're all caught up on the latest KSA happenings via bit.ly/OpSummary5-14-ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
arriving back in Umbarg, the KerBalloon team were completely successful this time out, having to deal with only moderate waters and recovering their payload. Genesis team however was informed the weather out east they sailed through on the way home is very rough
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Scientist Cheranne happily received the prototypes of two mystery goo container types from Head of R&D Wernher's team. They will be tested on a KerBalloon & Deuce flight next week. Radial (bottom) meant for aircraft while the inline (top) meant for rocket flight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KB crew has set sail aboard MSV Lymun for bit.ly/Sector_B-C49, a journey of over 1,200km. Bill says he's a bit worried about the potential for rough waters. Bob, stoic as ever, has committed to helping out on deck if needed. We wish them all a safe voyage!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after extended review of past missions deploying balloons by plane (kerbalspace.agency/ksa/?cat=8&tagā¦) KerBalloon have decided the logistical issues outweigh any potential cost savings & won't be teaming up with Genesis for Deuce deployments after all
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill & Bob are well on the way to getting a balloon assembled for bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ to carry out a similar contract to their last mission but in the northern sea this time - still a dangerous body of water
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our most extensive bit.ly/OpSummary5-7-18 yet contains everything you might have missed this week along with extra details too verbose for tweets. With the latest Progeny launch campaign completed, truly a relaxing weekend ahead!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon crew have returned to port without a payload. Seas were too rough for recovery before it took on too much water and sank, but they were able to gather some data remotely as it traveled aloft to negotiate a partial payment on the contract
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill and Bob have set sail with a KerBalloon crew once again aboard MSV Lymun to make another attempt at braving the southern sea to release and recover a low-altitude balloon over bit.ly/Zone_60P-5X. Safe journey!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Away she flies atop a pillar of flame & smoke! Initial boost will hit max thrust after only 3 seconds then reduce to keep MaxQ under 80kPa during initial climb. 35s from launch stage one will decouple and send the rocket into a coast phase before stage two ignition
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] count resumed as we are nearing the end of the usable window for our current upper-level wind data. We will continue up to new L-0 of 13:02 UTC and if clouds don't break we will be forced to resume holding until the next balloon ascends. Range closed. Rocket ARMED
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[HOLD] we are going to hold the count at L-15m while we wait for mostly cloudy skies to clear. Range Safety Officer needs visual confirmation of good rocket trajectory up to 3km ASL. Cloud deck is around 2.8km but we do not fudge our launch commit criteria
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h20m] balloon already on its way up early so Hoodall could move back to its range monitoring station without delaying the countdown. Nor will this affect the accuracy of the upper-level wind reports, just the timing as to how long the data is viable for use
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h30m] pre-flight operations are wrapping up, now time to look externally and ensure the range is clear once MSV Hoodall assists in the weather balloon release. MSV Tongjess left late yesterday to be in position 325km downrange for recovery, Lymun still in dry dock
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
š
Sunrise/Sunsetš
@ KSC (UTC-4)
5/8
#2š 07:52:35 !!š!! š11:29:28
#3š 13:53:26 š17:30:19
#4š 19:54:17 š23:31:10
5/9
#1š 01:55:08 š05:32:01
@ KSC (UTC-4)
5/8
#2š 07:52:35 !!š!! š11:29:28
#3š 13:53:26 š17:30:19
#4š 19:54:17 š23:31:10
5/9
#1š 01:55:08 š05:32:01
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h55m] issues board remains clear, now evacuating the pad and sheltering the quick-response team ahead of booster engine checks. MSV Hoodall is pulling up to shore to collect the weather balloon team as winds are off the water today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
time to call it a week! Catch up on anything you may have missed and/or learn additional details via bit.ly/OpSummary4-30-ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after a day of rest & recovery Bill says he's feeling much better. He and Bob will head out again with MSV Lymun after it is repaired next week and hope for better weather this time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
post-launch ops underway and MSV Hoodall did an excellent job, recovering the second deployed balloon and tracking the spent stages to their watery graves. First stage booster splashed downrange 19km @ L+3m4s and the second stage 46km @ L+4m33s
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have booster ignition and LIFT OFF of the third Progeny Mk6 Block I rocket to further explore the hazardous radiation region above our planet! Clear of the launch base, ascending nominally tracking SSE before disappearing into the clouds
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] Final readiness polls complete: Wx: GO, all wind conditions nominal; Range: GO; Flight: GO; Tracking: GO; Ops Director: Launch permission granted! š GO PROGENY š FTS transitioning to internal power
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
2nd weather balloon is nearing the upper atmosphere for new readings. If conditions are still poor we will have to scrub the launch to the next day cycle as waiting for a third balloon would put the recovery zone in darkness by the time the rocket splashed down
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
balloon crew already had a second balloon (of three) ready for release and it will soon be on its way up. Hoodall will recover the first one, reaching its max altitude any minute now. Countdown will recycle to L-15m with new L-0 set for 19:35 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
HOLD!! Final readiness poll returned a no go from weather, balloon is showing wind shear conditions in excess of flight limits at just over 18km, which is during an unpowered flight phase & could really knock the rocket around
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h20m] a team out in the Grasslands to the WNW has released a high-altitude KerBalloon to begin its hour-long ascent into the upper atmosphere (>18km) to report back on wind conditions that could affect the rocket in flight. Surface conditions for launch remain green
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
š
Sunrise/Sunsetš
@ KSC (UTC-4)
5/2
#2š 07:32:11 š11:22:40
#3š 13:33:02 !!š!! š17:23:31
#4š 19:33:53 š23:24:22
5/3
#1š 01:34:44 š05:25:13
@ KSC (UTC-4)
5/2
#2š 07:32:11 š11:22:40
#3š 13:33:02 !!š!! š17:23:31
#4š 19:33:53 š23:24:22
5/3
#1š 01:34:44 š05:25:13
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Lymun has just limped back into port after encountering a horrible storm in the southern sea. Three crew members were lost overboard working the deck, engines are damaged & Bill is suffering such horrible sea sickness he can't even stand up, was stretchered off the ship
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/FinanceReport_ā¦ is now up and although we nearly recouped our losses the amount of missions we were able to squeeze in at the end of the month couldn't quite overcome the Deuce and K2-X testing costs. Looking for some profit this month though!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill and Bob set sail earlier today with a KerBalloon crew aboard MSV Lymun to head for bit.ly/Zone_60P-5X 723km away down in the southern sea, where they will release a low-altitude balloon tomorrow to measure air temperatures
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
preliminary flight report for yesterday's launch is included in our review of events this past week - get more details via bit.ly/OpSummary4-23-ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h20m] Bob reports good balloon release, it will rise up over the launch corridor to a height of nearly 25km by L-0 and keep us informed of conditions in the upper atmosphere so we can monitor for dangerous wind shear
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h55m] Bob, Bill & a small crew have already headed out to ready a high-altitude KerBalloon for deployment to check up on @upperlevelwinds while the launch pad is now clearing for booster engine checks, QRT sheltering in the nearby bunker
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
š
Sunrise/Sunsetš
@ KSC (UTC-4)
4/26
#2š 07:11:47 š11:02:16
#3š 13:12:38 !!š!! š17:03:07
#4š 19:13:29 š23:03:58
4/27
#1š 01:14:20 š05:04:49
@ KSC (UTC-4)
4/26
#2š 07:11:47 š11:02:16
#3š 13:12:38 !!š!! š17:03:07
#4š 19:13:29 š23:03:58
4/27
#1š 01:14:20 š05:04:49
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill & Bob made a successful return to port in Umbarg earlier today with an intact payload from the high-altitude balloon deployment. They are both looking forward to helping support the Progenitor launch this coming week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
still no word from the KerBalloon expedition, which could have returned as early as today, but an extra day of mission time was allotted to the schedule in the event of having to perform an overland recovery of the payload
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
departing from Umbarg very early today, MSV Tongjess with Specialists Bill & Bob aboard along with their crew should have by now arrived at bit.ly/Area_P3OR to deploy a high-altitude balloon to measure wind currents over this strait between two large water bodies
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
deal is sealed on a bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ contract that will deploy tomorrow & we have also picked up a payload for the first May bit.ly/ProgenitorProgā¦ launch. Head of Finances Mortimer happy to finally ink some green into the ledger
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's time at last to start getting back on track for orbital flight! Summary of our plans for the next two months are available in our bit.ly/OpSummary4-9-18 - enjoy your last "weekend off" all staff & crew š
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob & Bill are excited to get back to work prepping KerBalloons for launch and planning missions. Once the Deuce returns to KSC they will attempt to deploy a balloon off the top rear fuselage
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
shortly after sunrise and KSC stands ready to resume operations as we complete our initial move back onto campus today. Will take another week or so to complete the transition but activities will pick up & a rocket will be back on the pad soon!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSC will re-open for operations this week! We will endeavor to show the Presider that his potential "sacrifice" will not be in vain and we thank him immensely for his support. Read more on the operations restart here: kerbalspace.agency/?p=7024
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/OpSummary4-2-18 gives some additional details on what our objectives are for the first Ascension flights prior to going for orbit. Have a great weekend everyone!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
there is really not much to report in March's financial report but as always it is available for public review if anyone is interested: bit.ly/FinanceReport_ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are one step closer to getting operations back underway at KSC. That and more in bit.ly/OpSummary3-26-ā¦ - we hope everyone enjoys a relaxing weekend!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the amended laws have been submitted to the Assembly, which should get around to reviewing them sometime next week. We did our best to speed up the legislative process but there's only so much that can be done...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
not much to review this week, so here's an update on the shutdown as well as details of Extremis Phase Two calculations: bit.ly/OpSummary3-19-ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
#OTD one year ago our Umbarg Headquarters opened for operations and what a great decision that was because had we consolidated all our business at KSC we would be in quite the bind right now!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
aaaand done. Our UTV teams will love using this to help plan out their initial routes overland! Documentation: github.com/KSAMissionCtrlā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the accuracy is a bit off over longer distances, so we still recommend using our webtool for better results. kerbalspace.agency/Tracker/distanā¦
We plan to also make it easier to grab the coordinates of the points placed along the line for use with the tool!
We plan to also make it easier to grab the coordinates of the points placed along the line for use with the tool!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
you can now measure out distances directly on the surface map in the Ops Tracker: ops.kerbalspace.agency/?body=Kerbin-Sā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the new offices still have to be setup with equipment and everything wired up but it should be all set for our return. Although the underground areas could be used before then, pointless to do so without any ongoing operations at KSC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we can't occupy permanent structures above ground but we can continue to build them! Our new Administration Complex is complete on schedule. Original bldg rebuilt w/new & better materials, second bldg is 3rd story, with 2 levels sprawling underground (high water table)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
find out more about the Ascension Mk1 designs released earlier this week via bit.ly/OpSummary3-12-ā¦ and tell us - are you doing anything sciencey this weekend?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our legal team isn't just *our* legal team, unfortunately, so while we'd like them to get these laws rewritten and put through for review by the Assembly posthaste they do have to deal with the needs of their other clients as well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the fight to resume surface operations continues, get additional information on that and more via bit.ly/OpSummary3-5-18 - a relaxing weekend is wished upon all
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
fortunately we expect to have majority support in the Assembly as well as the backing of the Presider so hopes are high we can get all this ratified in a matter of weeks instead. Still - well played, Monolithic followers. Well played.
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the High Court has ruled that the injunction against surface operations is legal, which means our team of lawyers now has to get to work writing up amendments to the current laws that will have to be cleared through Assembly. This could take months!!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/FinanceReport_ā¦ has been posted by Mortimer, showing out first profit for the year. Unfortunately it's not as much as we'd hoped given the shutdown of KSC but profit nonetheless
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today we completed our 5th orbit 'round the sun since the KSA began operations back in late 2016. Happy Kerbol anniversary! Jeb & Val also returned to Umbarg via airship after spending more time with the advanced training unit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
sunset from the Umbarg access tunnel as we end our last day of operations at KSC for at least the next 2-3 weeks. The last of onsite staff will be departing tomorrow after final equipment shutdowns are complete
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSC Operations Cease Indefinitely Due to Legal Injunction: kerbalspace.agency/?p=6892
Don't panic! Sadly our operational capacity has been drastically reduced but the KSA is not being shut down
Don't panic! Sadly our operational capacity has been drastically reduced but the KSA is not being shut down
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are ready to close out this week, so head on over to bit.ly/OpSummary2-12-ā¦ to get the latest details on our two high-profile missions this past week. Enjoy your weekend everyone!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Lymun has just pulled into port at Umbarg but will take too long to turn around for rocket recovery duties. Bill & Bob report a successful release & recovery of their KerBalloon, will head back to KSC after delivering data to Probodobodyne
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h20m] KerBalloon has been released off the deck of MSV Tongjess to ascend into the upper atmosphere for wind readings. Surface winds continue to remain green. Tongjess heading back on station for range monitoring duties
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h55m] pad evacuation underway ahead of booster engine checks, quick response team sheltering in the nearby bunker. MSV Tongjess is receiving a balloon crew as winds shift out of the south but remain light
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
š
Sunrise/Sunsetš
@ KSC (UTC-5)
2/15
#2š07:04:20 š 09:14:40
#3š13:05:11 š 15:15:31 !!š!!
#4š19:05:02 š 21:16:22
2/16
#1š01:06:53 š 03:17:13
@ KSC (UTC-5)
2/15
#2š07:04:20 š 09:14:40
#3š13:05:11 š 15:15:31 !!š!!
#4š19:05:02 š 21:16:22
2/16
#1š01:06:53 š 03:17:13
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no word from MSV Lymun. If they are not back tomorrow, we will have to send MSV Tongjess out after launch to search down and recover the payload if it survives re-entry. No big deal, it will just take longer to learn its fate
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a roughly 12-13hr trip at best speed would have had MSV Lymun arrive at the research site late yesterday. Assuming weather cooperates they will release and recover today to be back by tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill, Bob and crew have set sail from Umbarg aboard MSV Lymun to head out ~575km to bit.ly/Sector_PHCV-843. They are taking along 2 UTVs as well in case winds push the balloon overland after release
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
that's a wrap for this week folks! Have a relaxing weekend but before you go get caught up on what transpired this past week along with any additional information we have: bit.ly/OpSummary2-5-18
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Genesis have confirmed they are still in talks with Progenitor and KerBalloon to eventually attempt to launch a Mk1-B and deploy a balloon off the top of the Deuce sometime in these next few months
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob & Bill have been spending the week getting KerBalloons prepped for next week's Mk6-I launch, but bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ finally signed a new contract for next Monday so they will help to assemble that one over the next day and a half
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our fiscal outlook for the year still looks good but Mortimer has reduced some numbers after realizing that since KerBalloon missions will be further afield and require more time we will likely end up performing less of them than in 2017
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Tongjess pulled into port earlier today, they did indeed contend with some nasty weather on the return trip but release & recovery of the KerBalloon went off fine before that. Bob & Bill will be back at KSC with the payload tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although we had hoped to hear of MSV Tongjess arriving back at port by now, an extra day at sea was not unexpected if adverse weather impacted the mission somehow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
assuming good seafaring conditions MSV Tongjess should have by now reached its destination. Low-altitude balloons are very weather tolerant so after a release & recovery next sunrise they should start back - we expect them in port by tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
time to chillax and enjoy the weekend! Head over to bit.ly/OpSummary1-29-ā¦ (link verified! Sorry about last week) to check out details on this week's Deuce PR tour and the latest news from the Progenitor team on the Mk6
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mortimer has posted our bit.ly/FinanceReport_ā¦, which shows we had a rough month and obviously a lot still to recoup from the big Admin Center renovation project. Genesis still hanging in the green but Progenitor has slipped back into the red again
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob & Bill heading aboard MSV Tongjess to sail ~430km southeast and release a low-altitude KerBalloon. Bill says he's working to overcome his seasickness since they'll be doing plenty of space capsule water recovery training later this year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill & Bob are getting a low-altitude KerBalloon ready to head out to bit.ly/Site_DAW-LEG at the end of this week to gather temperature data for Kip Engineering
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
work began later than planned due to taking longer to move things over to Umbarg HQ than we thought but Admin Building has at last been razed and we'll have our new Admin Center fully operational by the end of March
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
both Kerbodyne and Flooyd Dynamics Research Lab were satisfied with the data we brought home for them and KerBalloon is now looking through another round of contract proposals for their next mission(s)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
happy to report MSV Tongjess is making for port in Umbarg with Bill, Bob, KB crew and two recovered balloons. Everyone can rest a bit easier knowing all went well out west & we look forward to handing over contract data tomorrow. Ker-ching!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a launch at last! Additional details on the MK5 Block I flight this week plus more in our Ops Summary - click the img below! - everyone enjoy your weekend and take some time to head to the surface to gaze up at the stars
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
hopefully by now MSV Tongjess have picked up the KB crew after their 131km trek across the desert. It all depends now on when the weather lets them launch over bit.ly/Sector_GV-001. We expect to have them back in port sometime this weekend
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
airship that transported KB team arrived back at Umbarg today so we know they were dropped off okay, should have released and recovered by now and be making their way to the water for pickup by MSV Tongjess tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
news at last! Lymun is on her way back with a mangled rocket found engine-up bobbing in the ocean - not how it is supposed to land. They could also find no trace of the chute, which indicates deployment likely did not go well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
wrapping up post-flight ops. Both boosters splashed downrange & crews report pad and launch base remain in good shape. MSV Tongjess has departed to head west to meet up with the KB team. We're expecting to hear from MSV Lymun within the next hour or so
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
just now passing through apokee, no change to radiation levels, holding steady at 10.010 rad/h. Rocket is so high if Bob & Bill had a large enough dish they could receive line of sight telemetry data too all the way over at bit.ly/Site_0B-RZ
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Tongjess is heading over to where the Wx balloon splashed down about 15 mins ago to retrieve it from the water, then exchange it for another high-altitude balloon it will carry out to bit.ly/Sector_GV-001 after picking up Bill, Bob & crew tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h20m] we have balloon release, heading up past 18km to check up on @upperlevelwinds for any shear conditions. Surface winds remain a concern but thankfully have not increased with sunrise and skies have improved to only partly cloudy
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
balloon team heading out to MSV Tongjess holding just offshore so they can launch from the range monitoring location as winds are coming out of the east and we want the balloon to stay within the rocket ascent corridor on its way up
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
š
Sunrise/Sunsetš
@ KSC (UTC-5)
1/25
#2š 08:03:17 !!š!! š11:53:47
#3š 14:04:08 š17:54:38
#4š 20:04:59 š23:55:29
1/26
#1š 02:05:50 š05:56:20
@ KSC (UTC-5)
1/25
#2š 08:03:17 !!š!! š11:53:47
#3š 14:04:08 š17:54:38
#4š 20:04:59 š23:55:29
1/26
#1š 02:05:50 š05:56:20
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
if all went well Bill, Bob & the KB crew should be at their release site. We don't like remote operations that can't check in regularly but one day satellite communications will let us worry less. Airship due to return tomorrow so we will have some news then
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
decision made to scrub the launch, storm is abating but operators have been working since early today - best to get them some rest & we will continue our launch attempt early again tomorrow. New L-0 time set for 14:48 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob & Bill are loading up 2 UTVs and the low-altitude KerBalloon aboard a cargo airship to transport them out to bit.ly/Site_0B-RZ for release tomorrow. They are bummed to be missing the launch but excited to explore new territory
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
š
Sunrise/Sunsetš
@ KSC (UTC-5)
1/24
#2š 07:59:53 š11:50:23
#3š 14:00:44 !!š!! š17:51:14
#4š 20:01:35 š23:52:05
1/25
#1š 02:02:26 š05:52:56
@ KSC (UTC-5)
1/24
#2š 07:59:53 š11:50:23
#3š 14:00:44 !!š!! š17:51:14
#4š 20:01:35 š23:52:05
1/25
#1š 02:02:26 š05:52:56
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob & Bill caught the last airship to Umbarg last night and are back at KSC today to begin helping to work on the logistics for these two upcoming bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ missions heading out tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill & Bob report the three KerBalloons prepped to support upper-level wind monitoring for the launch are ready. We have parts for 5 more on hand if needed, more are always ordered each launch to maintain a surplus (usually not all are used)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the lack of a rocket launch has made this past week no less exciting, that's for sure. Catch up on all that happened along with additional information via bit.ly/OpsSummary1-15ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Specialist Bob has made his way back to KSC after arriving in port at Umbarg earlier today. He is getting ready to support next week's Progeny launch while KerBalloon reviews some new contract proposals
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
driving through the familiar landscape around KSC, Bill lead the UTVs into the night on their last leg and have just arrived back with the high-altitude payload for delivery to Experimental Engineering
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
nominal ascent of the balloon, now falling back towards the ocean surface as Tongjess moves into position to recover it from the water. The ship will cruise back to Umbarg over the next two days
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have release of the low-altitude KerBalloon prior to sunrise as contract specifies, will gather temperature readings as it rises up to 16.5km before the expanding gas within exceeds the tolerance of the envelope material (in simpler terms: POP!)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs have dropped off Bob along the shore to board MSV Tongjess, which set sail from Umbarg back on Monday with the low-altitude KerBalloon aboard. They will head out and release after 3rd sunrise, UTVs continuing on the remainder of their ~350km journey back to KSC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after camping out another night cycle the KB team finally made it to the eastern Kravass caverns. They'll set out for KSC tomorrow and drop Bob off along the way to launch a low-altitude balloon from bit.ly/Zone_9-LM7
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KB team tracked the payload well and are already onsite and report the chutes brought everything back down safely. Once they are packed up they will head to Kravass to refuel and resupply, a little less than 100km to their northwest
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
balloon telemetry shows we have envelope failure just shy of max 24.9km altitude & payload is now plummeting back towards Kerbin for the UTV team to recover. We'll hear word after they have reached the landing site
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
skies have cleared nicely up north and the balloon has been released, rising in sight of Kravass at just over 600m. Crew had their comm balloon deployed as well and sent through this photo before packing up for tracking. Kravass is hidden just behind the ridge in the distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon team are ready to give it another go after failing to get good release conditions last day cycle. Winds have died down and they are standing ready waiting for skies to clear up some
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KB crew are in touch with us through Kravass, report extremely windy conditions that could endanger the balloon during early ascent by blowing it into a mountainside. Will standby and hope things improve later in the day cycle
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
another check-in from KerBalloon team via airship en-route from Umbarg to Kravass, they are just ~70km shy of their launch site after dealing with some treacherous slopes this past day cycle. Will report in tomorrow ready to release if weather is suitable
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon crew have made camp for the night cycle, covered just over 200km but this was the easiest leg. Heading up into the highlands will slow their pace but they still hope to make the launch site late today for release tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill & Bob have set off with their team in 3 UTVs for bit.ly/Site_GLE-F8 as crews finish rolling out the Deuce for Jeb & Val to preflight after they finish their briefing. Weather bad for flying but ground trials can proceed no problem as long as it doesn't rain...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all 3 utility task vehicles have been checked over for their first mission of the year next week, traveling 400km+ north to get to the launch site (bit.ly/Site_GLE-F8) Bob & Bill are both eager for the adventurous overland trek
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob & Bill finished up their KerBalloon probes for next week, went out to watch the trials. Bob snapped this photo from the side of the taxiway as Jeb allowed Val to taxi back to the HAB and conclude trials for this day cycle
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ has signed off on its first contracts for the year, heading north by land and by sea. Both missions will set out at the start of next week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our Admin building has served us well, but with Ascension & Extremis set to move ops onsite this year it's going to get a bit cramped. A 780,000F expansion project will begin this month & conclude in March. In the meantime all programs will be run from KSA HQ in Umbarg
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're back to full operational status here at KSC! We have a lot to look forward to in 2018 and over the past week at KSA HQ many meetings were had to finalize our general timeline for the year. Here's what to expect:
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
great work getting things organized at HQ so far this week, R&D and science labs getting back to work at KSC today while HAB and VAB are still completing their inspections - we expect to get the "all clear" tomorrow so we can finally kick off 2018 operations full swing next week!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSA HQ in Umbarg is once again a hive of activity as all staff return from holiday break to get everything in order to return to KSC this week. Full regular ops will begin next week as building surveyors need more time to finish their inspections started last month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
šāØ HAPPY NEW YEAR!! āØš
We hope everyone rang in 2018 safely with much joy and look forward to returning to KSC tomorrow to begin ramping up operations for the coming year!
\[0o]/
We hope everyone rang in 2018 safely with much joy and look forward to returning to KSC tomorrow to begin ramping up operations for the coming year!
\[0o]/
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
fare thee well 2017!! Kerbal Space Agency signing off for the year! If you hear from us before the 1st of next month it's probably going to be nothing good. We still have one last bit.ly/OpsSummary12-1ā¦ for you all. Safe holidays everyone!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
#ICYMI we also went back earlier this week & picked out our top 25 photos from 2016 out of the 293 that were taken that year. Our top pick is attached, you can see them all here: flickr.com/photos/kerbal_ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we had a profitable 2017 with good growth according to our year-end bit.ly/FinanceReport_ā¦ from Mortimer. 2018 should continue this trend although the budget for Ascension (not included) is looking rather daunting right now
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we posted 900+ photos this year & after much debate the top 100 have been chosen! Some are simply our favorites but many are key events that happened this past year. Do you remember a favorite of yours that didn't make the cut? Our #1 photo is attached flickr.com/photos/kerbal_ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronauts are finally done being test subjects for the year, had their final day of poking and prodding by the doctors and are shipping out to spend time off at home. Here's what they've all accomplished this past year (ribbon details can be found via bit.ly/CrewRoster)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
2017 Year in Review: Atmospheric Flight. You can review any of these missions via the bit.ly/GenesisProgram and bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ home pages. Everyone is excited to see the Deuce take to the skies once again next year! (full res: flickr.com/gp/kerbal_spacā¦)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
cheers from Launch Control as MSV Tongjess finally managed to get in touch with us to confirm it is cruising back to KSC with a payload aboard!! \[0_o]/ congratulations to the entire Progenitor team for a successful wrap up of their 2017 flight operations!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
now prepping for balloon recovery, we have booster splashdown confirmations from MSV Lymun, which tracked the 1st stage to 11.4km downrange @ L+3:14 & the 2nd stage to 29.8km downrange @ L+4:38. The rocket is currently 65km downrange, angling south with a 4.8Ā° inclination
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
booster ignition and LIFT OFF of the 3rd Progeny Mk5 Block I for our last trip into space for 2017!! Initial TWR of 4 as planned has pushed the rocket away from the launch base and on course to the east, trajectory nominal
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] Weather: GO, upper-level winds within limits, no shear detected; Range: GO; Flight: GO; Tracking: GO; Ops Director: Launch permission granted! š GO PROGENY š
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] clear, perfect skies from outside of Launch Control as dawn approaches, surface winds are calm. We're still awaiting word on upper-level wind conditions but the GO has been given to proceed into final countdown operations
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h20m] we have balloon release for its 1h ascent to the upper atmosphere (>18km). Data gathered for winds aloft will be factored into our Go/No Go decision for final all-station polls prior to terminal countdown
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob & Bill lead a team of UTVs out to setup for a high-altitude balloon release so we can get measurements of upper-level wind conditions to check for shear & excessive wind speeds prior to terminal countdown. 2 more balloons can support additional launch attempts if needed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
š
Sunrise/Sunsetš
@ KSC (UTC-5)
12/14
#2š09:27:32 š 11:44:37 !!š!!
#3š15:28:23 š 17:45:28
#4š21:29:14 š 23:46:19
12/15
#1š03:30:05 š 05:47:10
@ KSC (UTC-5)
12/14
#2š09:27:32 š 11:44:37 !!š!!
#3š15:28:23 š 17:45:28
#4š21:29:14 š 23:46:19
12/15
#1š03:30:05 š 05:47:10
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/OpsSummary12-4ā¦ has all the extra details and information on what you may have missed this past week. Launch week starts in just two more days! Get hype! š
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Genesis & KerBalloon have both suspended contract work for next week so Val & Jeb can test out rudimentary flight control software while Bill & Bob prep high-altitude balloons in support of the Progeny launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob reports they have the payload recovered and are on their way back to Ockr. He and Bill will be back at KSC late today, delivering the science data on their way through Sheltered Rock
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have pressure failure of the KerBalloon envelope at max altitude of 24.9km - great ascent, a first for collecting both low and high-altitude science data with a single balloon. No data relay issue reported either. Recovery ops getting underway shortly
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have telemetry showing here at KSC, routed through ground fiber cables from Ockr after balloon cleared the horizon at 1.2km and was able to see Ockr radio tower's receivers. Bill & comm techs will now have ~1h15m to run tests & troubleshoot any issues as balloon rises
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
airship is back aloft to serve as comm relay, we have notification that balloon has been released. Landing again to pick up the crew it will pace the balloon along its journey at the mercy of the wind. Bill is awaiting acquisition of signal at Ockr
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
covering the 106km in just over an hour, the airship has landed to deploy Bob & his crew, now setting up for release under perfectly clear skies
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
roughly an hour ahead of us, Bob has left Ockr at sunrise now to head for the release site (bit.ly/Zone_8CH2-L) while Bill remains behind to keep an eye on the telemetry relay & help with any technical issues
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob, Bill & crew completed their balloon yesterday and have shipped out today for Ockr. Yes, bit.ly/Zone_8CH2-L is reachable by land traversal, airships could have dropped fuel for UTVs but the trip would have taken too long to be worthwhile
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Head of Finances Mortimer has posted up bit.ly/FinanceReport_ā¦ which was an easy net gain thanks to no Progenitor or Deuce missions but we get happiness more from pushing boundaries than making lots of funds
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob & Bill are happy to have power back to aid them in assembling a high-altitude KerBalloon for release later this week from an overland location that will definitely be in range of Ockr's radio tower this time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
power has been restored to KSC, what could be done today by daylight & temporary lighting has still been significant across the campus. We expect no delays in Mk5 assembly as long as Umbarg power repairs remain permanent as planned
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have power restored to KSA HQ here in Umbarg, but full utilities are still coming back online slowly to ensure repairs are holding. Due to its transmission distance, KSC won't have power sent to it until later today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Umbarg keothermal plant is undergoing emergency maintenance this weekend starting ~30min from now, still recovering from extensive damage due to the Monolith Incident. All efforts to avoid a major outage have prevailed until now. We hope to receive power again by Monday
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we apologize again for failing to register our shortlink prior to publishing, causing a web bot to note the dead link & create one to a spam site :/ Horrible scammers out there. Catch up on this week's activities w/additional insight here: kerbalspace.agency/?p=6168
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob is back at Ockr with the payloads, here is a launch image from earlier today as both balloons begin their ascent off the rear deck. Recovery ship is berthed on the water ramp
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lymun has pulled both balloon payloads out of the water and is heading back towards shore for them and Bob to be picked up by an airship for transport back to Ockr, then back to KSC tomorrow. We will setup another opportunity for a full data relay test
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lymun says both balloons came near max height but unfortunately neither got high enough or stayed close enough to be seen by Ockr. They drifted about 20km apart, recovery operations are now underway
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're still lacking telemetry & confirmed with Bill that no signals have yet been received from the balloons. Lymun reports they are still ascending however heading further east which could keep them below line of sight thanks to the mountains east of Ockr being almost as high
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Lymun is keeping pace with the balloons as best as possible, trying to stay equidistant as they drift apart, report slightly sub-nominal ascent speeds for both after passing through cloud height
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have word of balloon release, both are ascending & will be picked up by the Ockr radio tower just short of max altitude, if they make it that high - but chances are good as skies reported to be mostly clear
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob & crew did stand ready this past day cycle but had overcast skies the whole time. They have one more chance starting 2nd sunrise before they will be forced to release regardless of conditions after 3rd sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob & crew were going to give it one more shot this day cycle but already a thick fog has moved in with the sunrise. They will stand ready but don't have high hopes for good weather
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have report of sky conditions continuing to deteriorate over bit.ly/Site_1BP3, Bob says they would have been better off releasing earlier today. They will continue to monitor though and still have all of tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob reports that cloud cover has been increasing all day, will stand down from release readiness until next sunrise. Seas are expected to remain within recovery limits
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob's location east of Ockr sees sunrise about an hour before we do, so he's already reported in that sky conditions are good but not optimal. They will wait and see what develops
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Lymun is already on the move to get back to bit.ly/Site_1BP3 after sailing 100km southwest yesterday to avoid rough seas. Waters are calmer, now they just have to hope for good sky conditions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Lymun has left bit.ly/Site_1BP3 due to worsening conditions. They will head for calmer waters reported by merchant vessels to the south and return tomorrow to try again for balloon release
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no possibility of balloon release this day cycle but Bob reports they are holding station alright as long as seas do not worsen. Hopefully things will calm down by 3rd sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob reports that they are still working towards bit.ly/Site_1BP3, fighting against heavy seas. They don't expect good conditions when they get there but will hold station if possible to await better weather
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill reports comm systems at Ockr check out. Its radio tower sits at 4.7km allowing it to receive direct signals from up to 75.8km along the horizon - although the mountainous terrain surrounding the area shortens this distance considerably to the east & south
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Lymun is just getting underway for a ~4hr 183km trip out to the release site. With no direct water access from Ockr Bob was ferried to the shore by airship then boarded via the recovery boat
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill & Bob have already left via airship from Umbarg to arrive at Ockr by the end of today. Bob will ship out early tomorrow to attempt release at 2nd sunrise while Bill once again provides any tech support needed for data & comm routing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
not a whole lot you could have missed this week but just in case you weren't paying attention get caught up with bit.ly/OpsSummary11-2ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
photos taken from yesterday's balloon mission can be perused in this gallery - imgur.com/a/oF7WT - by far our favorite is this glimpse of aurora spotted on the northern horizon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ had good success working through Kravass, so next they'll be taking some high-latitude high-altitude atmospheric readings while we test data relay through Ockr, which will be the future hub of DSN comms
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob & Bill are prepping to head back to KSC, they'll be picking through photos taken as the balloon ascended with an onboard camera. Here is a launch photo from off the fore deck
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Tongjess reports they have the payload and will be returning to port in Kravass to drop it off with Bob, who will catch a ride back to KSC tonight w/Bill via airship
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
envelope failure @ only 22.4km as vertical speed goes negative, looks like skies were not as clear as hoped when the balloon reached cloud height. Tongjess is catching up for recovery, balloon was outpacing it in an upper-level jet stream
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have acquisition of signal as the balloon clears the horizon passing through 9.9km, an altitude it should have reached a few minutes ago which likely means some ice has formed on the envelope & is weighing the balloon down
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob reports balloon has been released as clear skies approach on the horizon, Bill says comm center is ready to receive and relay telemetry
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Tongjess is arriving on station as crews prep balloon for release. Sun is just rising & skies looking mostly cloudy so they will wait for better conditions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
comm tests are nominal, Kravass radio tower sits at the peak of the mountain with 5,560km ASL being the top of the mast giving it a view 81.9km to the horizon. We'll be waiting a few minutes on the balloon to rise high enough to see
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Tongjess is leaving port w/Bob to sail 175km to the release point out in the middle of the northern sea. Bill is running comm tests in the meantime, as this will be our first data relay through Kravass
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob & Bill have departed Umbarg by airship to head to Kravass for their mission tomorrow. Bob will manage the release from MSV Tongjess while Bill provides tech support for the comms relay through Kravass to KSC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the equatorial region around us has been thoroughly troved for data, now agencies are looking towards both higher and lower latitudes for new measurements, like this contract for bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ MSV Tongjess has already set sail
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs are rolling back to KSC after an uneventful traversal of 329km round trip. Bill spent time yesterday ensuring all were in tip-top mechanical shape
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
balloon payload has been retrieved & stowed, UTVs are now making their way back to Umbarg then KSC. Relay airship will remain on station until UTVs can talk directly to Umbarg
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KAPOW!! Ok, maybe that was a bit over-dramatic but balloon envelope has failed on schedule as external pressure dropped below 5kPa. Chutes are armed & recovery team is tracking
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
passing through 8.2km we have confirmation all is well on ascent so far as balloon clears horizon to be picked up by Umbarg comm tower. We won't see it from KSC over the Western Mtns before it reaches 16.5km max altitude (stock photo shown)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KB team have released their balloon, timed so that they can recover it at sunrise and then make it back to Umbarg before sunset with plenty of margin
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
comms relayed by airship thru Umbarg report UTVs have arrived safely @ release location and will be ready to let go with the balloon prior to 3rd sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill, Bob & crew prepping all 3 UTVs for departure. It will take ~1hr to get to Umbarg via the access tunnel then they will trek ~100km overland after 2nd sunrise to reach their objective @ bit.ly/Zone_DJSNM
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today marked the 4th time we have traveled around Kerbol since the day the KSA was founded, a distance of 341,458,902.962km. Impressive? Well, despite its smaller orbit, its faster speed means during this same time Moho has traveled 544,970,972.899km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob & Bill are prepping a payload for this new bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ contract to carry out later this week, they both look forward to the long drive, Bill says he enjoys being out in the wilderness exploring
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
another week behind us, make sure you didn't miss anything & get some additional details on events in our bit.ly/OpsSummary11-6ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've sent what's left of yesterday's envelope to KerBalloon for further analysis but Bob says it's most likely a minor defect, nothing obvious found. We're not treating this partial ascent failure as a problem yet, but hopefully KB can make improvements to their manufacturing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
payload recovery has been successful & Lymun is heading back for KSC to drop it off w/ Bob, who's already been spending time inspecting previous envelope for any obvious defects
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good ascent for our 2nd payload of the day, envelope failure occurred on schedule @ 16.5km & Lymun is in position to recover upon splashdown
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
balloon telemetry is coming in through Tracking Station as it clears the horizon @ 1.4km, once again we're planning on an ascent up to max altitude of 16.5km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
56km downrange to the east of us, Lymun has been waiting on station for sunrise & just let go with their second balloon. Awaiting signal acquisition...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lymun is now prepping to set sail for bit.ly/Zone_TR-001 & we will have to hope for better results from the second balloon later today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob has pulled the payload out of the water & they made sure to collect as much of what remained of the balloon as possible for analysis
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have envelope failure? Just shy of 13km balloon telemetry shows vertical speed is negative, it's falling. Odd, but chutes are armed & ready
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill says we have acquisition of signal @ 1.6km as the balloon clears the horizon, working up towards 16.5km at a nominal rate of about 5m/s
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
30km from Umbarg, Lymun is on station @ bit.ly/Site_JF-455 prepping balloon release. Bill is helping monitor ascent from Tracking Station
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob has departed from Umbarg aboard MSV Lymun to launch two low-altitude balloons. Seas are reported to be mild, good for recovery ops
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
an incredible rocket launch, some fancy pattern flying & new moonlet! Get all the details kerbalspace.agency/?p=5953
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with Progenitor downtime, both bit.ly/GenesisProgram & bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ have picked up 2 new contracts each to keep us busy next wk
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob has arrived @ Umbarg w/MSV Tongjess after a successful mission we are glad to hear. He plans to spend the weekend there & be back Monday
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
that should have been SE not SW. We were just checking to see if anyone was really paying attention
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob should be in position sometime around now 212km SW for balloon release, we'll hear how mission went tomorrow when MSV Tongjess returns
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob is aboard MSV Tongjess, which stuck around since Tues, & heading out to bit.ly/Zone_72R72X. Mission will be out of comm contact
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've already ordered the reusable parts to replace what will be lost, Reaction Systems agreed to cover this as part of their contract
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the storm is so massive they will have to launch several km away and not even attempt a recovery - data will be recorded on the ship
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob & Bill working to wrap up a rush-job contract for KerBalloon signed yesterday to ship out a high-alt unit to measure a big storm system
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mortimer has bit.ly/FinanceReport_ā¦ published, showing our slimmest profit margin to date (751F). If yesterday's launch had failed... ouch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
WE HAVE AN INTACT PAYLOAD!! Recovery team says it is well-roasted & we may have to write off some of the reusable parts - hopefully data OK!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tongjess is working its way around behind the island where the payload should have splashed down, we expect confirmation in about 15-20min
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tongjess is recovering the KerBalloon & then prepping for payload recovery also as rocket is falling back towards KSC, now 21km downrange
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
(first stage!) booster ignition & lift off! 67.2kN of thrust push the Mk5 off the pad at 4Gs - but things will speed up quick. Too quick?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30] we currently have heavy clouds overhead but clear skies are following! Wx has given the GO to proceed into final countdown !!š!!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
3rd balloon has been released. If we have to scrub into tmrw there is surplus for 3 more that can be built prior to launch after 4th sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Tongjess will recover the second balloon shortly then head out east to check on MSV Lymun, as we still have not had any comms from them
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
scrub operations complete, rocket is in standby w/new L-0 uploaded, pad secure. Bill & Bob already back at KSC prepping the third balloon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
decision has been made & we are scrubbing for this day cycle - will resume the countdown from L-30m @ 01:28 UTC for a 01:58 UTC launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've let go the 2nd balloon to provide an update on upper-level winds in the event that we have clearance to launch later in the window
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Tongjess has moved off station to recover the KerBalloon launched earlier. Bill & Bob remain out in the field with one more ready to go
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] rehearsal complete, rocket is GO, launch team is GO, assets are GO but unfortunately weather remains red for cloud coverage
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h20m] Bob & Bill took a crew a few km west of KSC to setup & release our weather balloon, now rising towards the upper atmosphere
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
š
Sunrise/Sunsetš
@ KSC (UTC-4)
10/31
#2š07:01:20 š 09:11:41
#3š13:02:11 š 15:12:32 !!š!!
#4š19:03:02 š 21:13:23
11/1
#1š01:03:53 š 03:14:14
@ KSC (UTC-4)
10/31
#2š07:01:20 š 09:11:41
#3š13:02:11 š 15:12:32 !!š!!
#4š19:03:02 š 21:13:23
11/1
#1š01:03:53 š 03:14:14
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Everyone have a great weekend & don't forget there's a lunch next Tuesday! Catch up on this past week via bit.ly/OpsSummary10-2ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
every launch w/ balloons so far has been budgeted for 3. We expect to build up a surplus & upon reaching 10 extra only order more as needed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
3 KerBalloons are being prepped for next week's launch. If we use them all up due to multiple delays, 3 more will be in supply already Mon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mortimer, our Head of Finances, happy to announce we've proven to Maritime Service our commitment to them & negotiated flat service rates
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
glad to have Bill, Bob & crew back safe @ KSC after their longest trek to date: 572km round trip. Flooyd also happy data made it back intact
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we'll have a relay airship ready on station as they swing around the mtns due to increased danger of landslides after heavy rain in the area
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KB crew are getting ready to travel again, expect slower going thx to soft ground but still plan to be back at KSC no later than 3rd sunset
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
almost ready to call it a day cycle, UTVs made good time initially but report that they've been slogging through heavy rain the past hour
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs should be on their way home, we'll get status checks thruout the day from passing airships. It will take Bill, Bob & crew ~6hrs driving
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
mission success for the KerBalloon team has been relayed to us by airship arriving at Umbarg. They will start home after 2nd sunrise tmrw
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we won't hear about mission outcome until later today, as balloon will not clear the horizon from that far away, 218km downrange (plus mtns)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
word has reached us the UTVs have made it to bit.ly/Area_DRA55 all in one piece & are now getting setup to release the balloon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs have checked in, stopped for the night, no issues. Airship captains really like helping us out, something else to do on the long hauls
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
3 UTVs, 2 w/spare fuel tanks, can travel 604km so this trip is near their max range. They will check-in with airships flying UMB<->KRA
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill, Bob & crew w/3 UTVs are setting out for their longest overland trek to date, nearly 500km round trip not counting balloon tracking
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a brief update to our bit.ly/OpsSummary10-1ā¦, including Desk Notes. We will have more information released over this weekend
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
post-launch operations will be carried out & a full investigation will be conducted this wknd. Will have brief Weekly Ops Review update soon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are assessing a launch anomaly - still not entirely sure what just happened but the rocket ascended on 2nd stage booster then splashed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
winds aloft, including upper-level winds, continue to remain in the green & will be monitored by ascending balloon, now reaching upper atmo
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h20m] balloon release reported, Tracking Stn will pickup signal w/in a min. Jeb is helping ground crews get the Civve untied & inspected
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with the wind shift Bob has returned to KSC & he's already headed out w/Bill & crew in 2 UTVs SE of KSC to release the 2nd weather balloon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h30m] winds have died down & shifted from the SE, looks like the storm is moving off. MSV Lymun is reporting better conditions also
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
catch up on the events of this past week via bit.ly/OpsSummary10-1ā¦ - we will update it later with details of the Mk5 launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all launch assets have completed scrub procedures & are now standing by. We will have a weather report for next launch attempt @ 23:51 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch has been scrubbed. New L-0 time is 01:21 UTC and hopefully the weather will be better then. We will resume the count at L-1h30min
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[HOLD] Wx remains red. Conditions are not deteriorating but neither are they improving. Our daytime window closes @ 17:25 UTC, 1hr to sunset
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[HOLD] Wx remains red. No rain still tho MSV Lymun reports that rain has started. Tongjess downrange is out of the weather in moderate seas
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
high winds have roughed up the bay waters enough Bob & crew have had to put ashore. MSV Lymun has recovered the balloon released earlier
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] rehearsal complete, no issues reported but weather has put a HOLD on the countdown due to cloud coverage currently being above 80%
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the weather monitoring package the balloon carries will keep us informed of wind conditions aloft, including hazardous vertical wind shear
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h20m] we have release & AOS of the high-altitude KerBalloon, set to drift thru our launch corridor as it enters the upper atmo @ 18km+
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
winds still out of the north, so Bob will be taking our recovery boat a few kilometers out into the bay for release of the weather balloon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h10m] GO for preflight! Cloud cover has increased & we are concerned about a storm reported out to sea. Pic a few mins ago before sunset
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob & Bill are giving their two KerBalloons a final inspection. Each carries a USI weather instrument to help us monitor upper-level winds
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good day, space tweeps! Who's ready for a rocket launch? KSC already starting to come alive to prep for pre-launch ops to begin @ 14:00 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
š
Sunrise/Sunsetš
@ KSC (UTC-4)
10/20
#2š 08:34:17 š12:24:47
#3š 14:35:08 !!š!! š18:25:38
#4š 20:35:59
10/21
#1š00:26:29 š 02:36:50
#2š06:27:20
@ KSC (UTC-4)
10/20
#2š 08:34:17 š12:24:47
#3š 14:35:08 !!š!! š18:25:38
#4š 20:35:59
10/21
#1š00:26:29 š 02:36:50
#2š06:27:20
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/GenesisProgram & bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ have missions slotted next week for Bob, Bill & Val - Jeb might get a mission as well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Tongjess is back in good comm range & happy to hear recovery was routine. Ship will drop off Bob & the payload on its way back to Umbarg
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
envelope failure a bit short @ 23.8km but overall good ascent w/data collected from 17.6km. No comms to Tongjess, so awaiting recovery news
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
acquisition of balloon telemetry signal as it clears the horizon @ 1.3km. We can confirm good release, ascent rate 5m/s, all systems nominal
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
balloon release! Skies mostly clear, KB team aiming for a large empty splotch of blue that should be over them when balloon hits upper atmo
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
coming up on 3rd sunrise KerBalloon team once again gearing up for possible release if weather cooperates. Tracking Stn is standing by
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon team are standing down for the day cycle & will try again after 3rd sunrise, reports Bob from aboard MSV Tongjess north of KSC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob has radioed in saying winds are favorable but skies are mostly cloudy with no end in sight. They will prepare to release & monitor Wx
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
kicking off our 400th day of operations! Tracking Stn team on console waiting for word from KerBalloon team on how the weather looks today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon team is scrubbing for today, out of time to release & recover before it grows dark. Will make another attempt at 2nd sunrise tmrw
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
continuing to standby, KB team reports sky mostly clear but are unhappy w/winds out of SSE that could push balloon out of contract area
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
monitoring team is on console at the Tracking Station & VAB roof dish has been oriented northward ready to receive data signal above horizon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob has commed in from Tongjess 53km to the north to report sun is up & they are standing by waiting for clearer skies & favorable winds
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob is heading aboard MSV Tongjess, looking to set sail w/in the next 30min to be on station by 3rd sunset & ready to release at 4th sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob & Bill are prepping a high-altitude KerBalloon that Bob will take aboard MSV Tongjess later today to sail for bit.ly/Area_H1S7
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ok *now* we can celebrate! Lymun recovery crew just pulled payload from the water. Mission success! Bring that sweet science on home! \[0o]/
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
post-launch ops underway as we ensure all spent boosters splashed or are recovered, pad is cleaned up & KerBalloon is recovered by Tongjess
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
LIFTOFF! 1st stage booster has ignited sending the Mk5 roaring off the pad @ 4Gs toward space! Shorter coast times will make events go quick
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the unseen weather we are most worried about, wind shear, is currently negative according to latest balloon readings from the upper-atmo
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
controllers giving all their systems a final complete once-over to be ready to announce their status during final poll. We can see Wx is GO!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-20m] final check-in from Lymun reports they are ready to track down & recover payload. KerBalloon ascent remains nominal, now @ 18.2km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KB crew remaining out on standby w/2nd backup balloon to release in event of an early envelope failure or no pass thru/near ascent corridor
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h20m] we have good release of the high-alt KerBalloon west of KSC, winds will push it through our ascent corridor as it hits upper atmo
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob, Bill & a small crew are heading a few km west to get setup with their balloons to be ready for release in a little under 1 hr from now
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
two high-altitude balloons are being prepped, one will be backup in case of a failure/issue w/1st balloon or a hold & need for a 2nd release
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon have suspended contract ops this week to let focus be on Mk5 assembly & also for their part in launching Wx monitoring balloon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
quiet end to the week, but exciting stuff announced during it so get caught up via bit.ly/OpsSummary10-2ā¦ & have a great weekend!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob is heading back to KSC from Umbarg with both balloon payloads after Tongjess arrived back in port out of moderate seas a short while ago
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob reports from MSV Tongjess of a successful payload recovery & is beginning the 212km journey back to Umbarg. Airship moving off station
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have envelope failure & balloon is still out over water, just 2km from land. Bill is turning around & heading back, Tongjess recovering
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill & the other UTV have made it to Umbarg, now standing by to hear from Tongjess. If needed, they will depart overland at 3rd sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have balloon release. If it lands at sea, Tongjess will recover; if over land, radio beacon will last long enough for Bill to find it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
winds could potentially just carry balloon along the shore or push it inland a ways is best guess from known weather patterns in the area
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
relay airship on station & reports Tongjess reads winds out of NNW so Bill & team are hdg for the western shore over 150km away, via Umbarg
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Umbarg hangar bay doors got stuck opening & we had to charter a new airship from a different bay, now enroute for comms relay 2hrs late
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill will be on standby with his UTV team & if wind remains out of the west he will head out to collect the payload in case it reaches land
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
at best speed MSV Tongjess should be in position now, we will check with them via relay airship tomorrow to confirm wind direction at launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after payload recovery Tongjess will head for bit.ly/Sector_RP-010 where it will prep for launch early tomorrow prior to 2nd sunset
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
envelope failure @ 16.5km, upper-level winds brought balloon back north a bit, Tongjess comms received, are prepping recovery in calmer seas
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have AOS @ 15.9km as expected so release was on time. Balloon tracked westward, also as expected. Tongjess should be pacing for recovery
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tracking Stn is awaiting AOS but due to the distance from which balloon is released we don't expect a signal until shortly before max alt
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
balloon release? No word from Tongjess but radio reception could have worsened since their last checkin as launch preparations were underway
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
calmer waters near the launch area, Tongjess reports on station ready to release just before 3rd sunrise to gather temp data as ocean warms
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Umbarg HQ reports MSV Tongjess has set sail into rough seas w/Bob & crew for bit.ly/Sector_RT-M0H, don't expect to make it before sunset
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloons are complete & Bob is heading down to Umbarg via the access tunnel so he can ship out early tomorrow aboard MSV Tongjess
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VAB workers are keeping busy assembling the low-altitude KerBalloons for tomorrow's mission but still lament having no big rockets to build
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mortimer is happy with bit.ly/FinanceReport_ā¦ showing a good profit margin despite our 2nd-highest ever month of operational expenses
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ has two contracts for low-alt balloons Spc Bob will carry out 10/4 w/Bill as backup in case land recovery needed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Weeeeeeekeeeennnddd!! Also month end! Everyone is excited for all the cool stuff Oct will bring. But first, a recap! bit.ly/OpsSummary9-25ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
originally we planned set hours of operation but that soon became unfeasible due to growing demands of our various missions. Learn & adapt!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've resolved worker pay & hours issues brought up back in June, everyone happy with the new flex hours scheme we've been transitioning to
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob is heading ashore with the payloads, wrapping up our ops for 2day. C7 did succeed in signing a 2nd contract for Val to take care of tmrw
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
report from Lymun is they have spotted the balloon's light beacon. Bob's team is moving in to recover & then they will head back to KSC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
as sunset fast approaches, Bob & crew don't have much daylight left to search for the balloon, now descending, which outpaced them westward
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
you can see the top of the VAB in the last picture, so we already have signal lock on the balloon to monitor its ascent while Lymun tracks
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
release #2! Payload swings around as the breeze catches it, stronger winds now, but still out of the west so Bill standing down for the day
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lymun is standing by to recover the payload & then proceed to bit.ly/Zone_EBGY-010 just south of KSC for the day's second launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ascent has halted on schedule as balloon climbs thru 16.5km & <5kPa of pressure causes gas inside to expand past limits of envelope - POP!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
acquisition of balloon telemetry signal as it passes through 1.6km, Tracking Station confirms all systems are nominal & will monitor ascent
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
balloon release with sunrise, winds remain out of the west so Bill & UTVs are standing down, may still be needed later for second launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch prep underway for low-alt KerBalloon release out in the Kerblantic aboard MSV Lymun. Seas remain slight with waves barely topping 1m
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
hills east of KSC block us from receiving Lymun directly so thru Umbarg we know they are on station & holding for release at 3rd sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lymun is prepping to set sail for bit.ly/Sector_N9-Q9B while Bill & UTVs standby, wind currently out of the west means they're not needed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Minmus has been getting all the love lately so Bob snagged a shot of Mun showcasing its east crater as he deployed out to MSV Lymun
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
medical checkups have given Bill & his crew all clean bills of health, pollen levels must have remained lower up to the north thankfully
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here is yesterday's release. Depending on which way the wind is blowing, UTVs may not be needed to recover balloons launched from sea
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rolling back into KSC, UTVs will turnaround & prep for rollout again tomorrow to possibly assist w/low-alt launches. Release img earlier
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs have tracked down the payload & are in the process of recovery, will then head back for KSC for arrival shortly after nightfall
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
since the payload is coming down at night, Bill & crew will head out the following day cycle to collect it, relay airship will track landing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
great ascent all the way up, balloon has ruptured at <1kPa & will free fall back to Kerbin over the next 2min before chute deploy @ 1.5km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have acquisition of signal from the KerBalloon, rising at ~5m/s nominal ascent rate passing through 6.3km on its way up to a max 24.9km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
weather has held out 95km to the north & Bill just commed in to confirm release, encroaching clouds to the west should not affect ascent
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
kerbs are recommended to stay indoors & use filtration masks outside. KB team up north have been notified, unsure of levels in that area
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
scientists monitoring pollen have recorded an increase over past several days back to levels that caused health issues earlier this year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob will be spending today getting two low-altitude KerBalloon units prepped for release tomorrow from MSV Lymun, anchored offshore for now
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
naught but clear blue sky over KSC right now. Bill's team reports the same for them, now that just has to hold until sunset in ~2 hours...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
glad we got 1 release today. Bill's crew still No Go, will try again tomorrow @ 2nd sunset while Bob preps low-alt units for later this wk
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
POP! balloon is falling from 24.8km, chutes armed. Lymun not far behind & is ready to recover, will return with payload directly to KSC tmrw
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon has reached the upper atmosphere @ 18+km & ascent remains nominal, currently racing WSW @ 22m/s - upper-level winds can be fast!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tracking Stn has AOS as the KerBalloon climbs through 1.5km aiming to gather pressure data all the way up to 1kPa before envelope failure
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
comm from Lymun, skies finally clearing this day cycle *before* time is up to launch. They are finishing up prep to release their balloon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
if anything, 280 chars per tweet simply means we can use less acronyms & abbreviations. Have never felt we needed more room to communicate
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
airship has relayed to us Bill & crew are standing down again, still holding out for clearer skies & will make one more attempt @ 4th sunset
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no word from Lymun but they are now well past the point of being able to release & recover before dark, so we will wait again @ 4th sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tracking Station is monitoring signal bands for any launch from MSV Lymun this day cycle in case we are not able to receive a comm from them
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
too late now for Bill's team to launch for the required data, still mostly cloudy so they are also hanging out & will try again @ 3rd sunset
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good skip from Lymun via Umbarg, in position but we prefer not to recover @ nite over water & contract good for anytime so 3rd sunrise it is
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill's team have arrived & are setting up for release. Contract wants ascent during sunset, which is coming up soon. Wx reported cloudy tho
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
relay airship coming on station to let us monitor Bill's progress while Lymun makes ready to set sail shortly for bit.ly/Site_T3KCSD
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill has set off w/3UTVs for a 95km trek to bit.ly/Site_WK71 while Bob heads down to Umbarg via access tunnel to board MSV Lymun
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob & Bill will each take a high-alt balloon for a 3-day max launch window, then Bob will launch both low-alts, maybe Bill recovers onshore
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ prepping for two missions tomorrow, as many as two more later this week, both high & low altitude missions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
both payloads back at KSC, launch cleanup still continues. Everyone on Progenitor program is looking forwards to a nice 3-day weekend š
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
while Tongjess recovered the rocket payload, Lymun was also recovering the balloon payload shortly after launch, both headed back to KSC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
post-launch ops well underway after everyone done congratulating each other. Our 1st fully-automated rocket flight was a complete success!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L+6m] we have successful chute deploy! Payload descending 36km downrange WSW of KSC almost on top of the abandoned C7 Aerospace base
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
LAUNCH! Mk5 has left the pad w/nominal pitch, now spinning up thru 1st stage boost & will reach upwards of 330m/s by the time stage expires
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tracking Stn has the balloon passing through 21km, still climbing steady. Upper-level winds continue to look favorable w/no shear detected
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] final count is a GO! Balloon data coming back favorable, surface winds good & skies clearing. Jool & Moho near appulse, Eve above
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h20m] balloon released, headed up for 24.9km. Full Mun at zenith gave the team out in the Grasslands plenty of natural light to work by
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h30m] MSV Lymun has reported in for range monitoring duties while Bob & Bill have also commed to say the balloon is ready for release
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob & Bill have headed out with 2 UTVs a few km to the northwest to prep for balloon launch, wind will carry it thru Mk5's ascent corridor
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h] here we go, rolling into pre-launch ops. Take note of the addition @ L-1h20m when we launch the balloon to ascend to max alt by L-0
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Progenitor have ordered their own set of KB units but enough surplus also available that KB program is letting Progenitor use one of theirs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill & Bob are helping close out the KerBalloon for today's launch. Thx to KB ops defer, enough parts available to construct on short notice
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
#2š
07:10:42 š10:34:43
#3š 13:11:33 !!š!! š16:35:34
#4š 19:12:24 š22:36:25
9/23
#1š 01:13:15 š04:37:16
#3š 13:11:33 !!š!! š16:35:34
#4š 19:12:24 š22:36:25
9/23
#1š 01:13:15 š04:37:16
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
tl;dr - we will launch a high-alt KerBalloon from the range monitoring vessel or KSC prior to launch to check for any wind shear conditions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
assuming launch readiness checks complete w/o issue today we are GO for launch tomorrow! Final anomaly report: bit.ly/ProgenitorPR16
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Monolith dome is completed, made of large pre-fab pieces it's 46m tall - we still can't believe they managed to raise it in only 2wks
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon has some contracts lined up but will be deferring operations to Progenitor & Genesis this week so things don't get too crazy
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this has been an amazing crazy week. Be sure to check out bit.ly/OpsSummary9-11ā¦ so you don't miss anything! Next week be crazier->!!ššš!!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Tongjess made it safely thru hvy chop to Umbarg a short while ago & UTVs have just arrived back at KSC. launch photo from earlier today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Maritime Service has issued a severe storm warning along the coast, including Cape Kernaveral. KSC is prepping for storm surge & heavy rain
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob & crew are soaked from sea swells but didn't get tossed over & managed to grab payload before it was swept under. Hdg to Umbarg w/haste
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
great ascent, envelope failure @ 24.8km just a bit short of max alt. Bob reports they are in rough seas, but will still attempt a recovery
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rooftop dish has signal from the balloon, now @ 11.4km rising 5m/s & already well out over the water. Bill & UTVS already packed up, hdg out
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon released! Still clouds over launch site but clear skies following should be above the balloon by the time it hits cold upper atmo
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
report from KB launch site is clouds still hamper a good ascent. Once again standing by. Tongjess is holding in 1-2m seas, still w/in limits
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
USI will be replacing all our TDUs (the non-programmable ones) with new units for free & we have a good workaround for current units
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
investigation into corruption of barometer instrument data during a KerBalloon flight traced to faulty hardware from one of USI's suppliers
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no-go on balloon launch, we will try again @ 3rd sunrise. Tongjess warning that sea conditions are worsening further east in recovery zone
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
balloon is set for release but Bill reports conditions are not optimal. Everyone is standing by to see if skies clear up more this day cycle
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob is heading aboard MSV Tongjess to sail down to a hold point off the coast of where Bill & crew will be prepping to launch @ 2nd sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs have reported arrival thru Umbarg via comm balloon. Bob & MSV Tongjess will head down tomorrow in case offshore recovery is needed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
they will use the access tunnel to reach Umbarg by 4th sunrise then traverse overland the rest of the distance, loft comm balloon on arrival
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill is setting off w/3 UTVs for a traverse over this day cycle to reach bit.ly/Sector_P42P to setup for launch as soon as early tmrw
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're not going to do any year-long wrap up of stats or milestones or anything - we'll get in the habit of doing that every calendar year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Happy bday to us! Send cake! It really has been a yr of operations here at KSA! Founder @DKerman_KSA has a few words kerbalspace.agency/?p=5167
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good balloon recovery, hopefully someday the hi-alt variants will be just as reliable! Lymun will return payload & remain for range ops tmrw
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
envelope failure right on schedule as outside pressure drops below 5kPa, Lymun positioned nearby to recover in 1-2m seas southeast of KSC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we had balloon launch a few mins ago, AOS shortly afterwards @ 345m. Lymun is tracking its progress south while we track progress to 16.5km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
winds are strong out of the north so although bit.ly/Area_H-MJW is near shore no chance of land recovery, Bill & UTVs staying home
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Lymun anchored offshore after dropping off the Mk5 payload yesterday, is now taking on Bob & crew to launch a balloon just 33km away
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the first Progeny Mk5 is ready for launch! That & more via bit.ly/OpsSummary9-4-ā¦ - relax this weekend, all - next week be crazy! šš!!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ & bit.ly/GenesisProgram getting a jumpstart on next wk contracts to squeeze inbetween the busy launch schedule
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
payload recovery was successful reports Bob, they are headed back to Umbarg. Tho KSC slightly closer, KSA HQ is in Umbarg to collect data
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
envelope failure @ 24.7km. We managed to get back in touch w/Tongjess during the ascent as balloon drifted closer to us. Recovery ops rdy
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tracking Stn has acquired tlm as balloon passes thru 7.7km - surprise! Comms for launch notification must not have reached us. It happens
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob says cloud coverage is too great to guarantee a full ascent, so they will standby and see if conditions improve later this day cycle
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Tongjess is back in position with calmer seas, just waiting on more sunlight to confirm sky conditions are good, lots of stars visible
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob reports Tongjess is moving off for calmer waters reported by ships to the north, will return tomorrow to see if conditions have improved
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tongjess has finally reached Area HX-HD after dealing w/ rough seas - too rough for launch or recovery. Will hold station & await better Wx
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
as this day cycle draws to a close Bill & UTVs are rolling back into KSC while Tongjess continues to steam 100km offshore to its launch site
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
successful recovery reported. UTVs are already heading back towards KSC while Tongjess will hold onto payload until its own mission is over
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
balloon envelope has failed, it is plummeting back to Kerbin at speeds of over 200m/s. Tongjess is standing by for recovery operations
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs report they are losing the tracking signal as they drive north along the water, Tracking Stn confirms it is headed out to sea
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
not much terrain to get in the way of signal, Tracking Stn reported AOS @ 809m. Tongjess will pace the balloon as well a few km offshore
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch reported, low-altitude KerBalloon will ascend to 16.5km. Current winds will carry it northeast over land, UTVs packing up to track it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs have arrived, are setting up for launch. Tongjess still enroute but nearby, reports sea conditions are within recovery limits
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with balloon launching near the shore, Tongjess will track as well in case of sea recovery, then head out to bit.ly/Area_HX-HD
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs w/Bill have already begun traverse to bit.ly/Zone_83H-2K, Bob is now headed to board MSV Tongjess & head for the same location
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/GenesisProgram & bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ have each signed on some new contracts for this week, Genesis maybe 1 more
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've refunded USI their contract payment after confirming the data we gave them last week was corrupted. Internal investigation is underway
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mortimer has posted our bit.ly/FinanceReport_ā¦, Aug in the red thx to new comms dishes + more funds being funneled into Deuce & Mk5
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill didn't even bother figuring out what was wrong w/UTV engine - he just rebuilt the whole thing, said he needed a weekend project anyways
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
so long, August! Another productive week here at the KSA, catch up on all the happenings + add'l details via bit.ly/OpsSummary8-28ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
back at port, Bob is arranging to have the pressure data sent to Sheltered Rock where USI is based. Launch photo looking north towards KSC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tongjess reports Bob & crew have managed to recover the payload from 1-2m seas, are heading back aboard then returning to port in Umbarg
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
nominal ascent, unlike high-alt balloons icing is not an issue. Chutes are armed, falling back down to 600m chute deploy takes about 2min
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
balloon is away as of 3min ago & has already cleared horizon @ 647m, Tracking Stn has tlm signal. It will ascend to a max altitude of 16.5km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
while sky conditions are not a factor, being at sea means water conditions are. Currently seas are within recovery safety margins
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tongjess @ bit.ly/Sector_Q4CLVG - rdying launch. Low-alt balloons have thicker envelope material & can ascend in almost any Wx condition
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Tongjess has left Umbarg w/Bob & rest of KB crew so they can be on station with 2nd sunrise & ready to launch not long afterwards
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
traverse was without issue & all 3 UTVs are back. Launch photo! Bill is looking forward to digging into the broken UTV over the weekend
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KB team already hooked the disabled UTV up yesterday & are already on the move, taking it nice & slow back to KSC over this entire day cycle
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good recovery reported, UTVs packing up & heading back to launch site - 3rd UTV is dead, rain did it in? Will be towed back to KSC tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
envelope failure at 23.8km, shift in upper-level winds has carried payload back towards gentler terrain. UTVs in position to recover
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
entering the upper atmosphere @ 18km balloon still looks good, traveling NNW towards foothills of Mt Kermon but team has their climbing gear
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
at 5.5km the balloon has cleared the horizon, all telemetry data nominal. 2 UTVs on the move - 3rd stayed behind with engine trouble again
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
balloon has been released, UTVs will track as it ascends towards 24.9km, tracking dish atop the VAB is oriented & rdy to receive tlm data
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
sun up @ bit.ly/Area_CQ-49 & report is clouds are much less abundant now. A nice clear patch of sky is seen approaching, stand by...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
standing down again, KB team reports clouds remain scattered & are continuing to hold out for clearer skies while they still have supplies
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
once again KB team gearing up to launch readiness so they can release the balloon at first sign of decent skies after the sun is fully up
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob is spending the day helping to close out the low-alt KerBalloon probe he will take out to sea tomorrow, will transport to Umbarg today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
weather is great here but just 90km north KB team says they are still unable to launch due to excess cloud cover. Will retry 2nd sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
skies remain overcast over KB launch site although rain has passed so the hope is skies will clear later this day cycle or for the next one
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rain continues, KB team hunkering down til tomorrow. Airship moving off station as winds picking up, but still within emergency beacon range
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rain has started up north, KB team prepping to pack up & move out if weather turns severe but so far just rain w/light winds, no thunder
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KB team scrubbing for this day cycle, packing up the balloon & pitching the tents to settle in. Will try again with 3rd sunrise later today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's not raining & Bill says air smells dry so they are setting up the balloon & will standby ready to release while monitoring the weather
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
relayed thru airship, UTVs report they have arrived at bit.ly/Area_CQ-49 & it's pitch black, completely overcast skies still
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs are pressing on through the nite as this area has been traversed before & they know not to expect any troublesome terrain along route
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we can already see overcast skies off to the north, but as usual w/3rd UTV supplies are packed that will last them the rest of the week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
looking to depart 1hr ago, one of the UTVs decided to not start & Bill had to help fix it. Bob staying @ KSC to remain avail for Fri mission
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ have contracts for both low & high altitude missions this week, with planning & prepping underway today & tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
conclusion of the KerBalloon mission ends our ops for this week, catch up on what else went down w/add'l details: bit.ly/OpsSummary8-21ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
recovery operations successful, another routine mission! We like those. Lymun will return to port & Bob will be back at KSC this weekend
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
much better ascent this time, reaching 24.7km before envelope failure. Calm seas allowed Lymun to easily keep pace, upper winds light also
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
now facing northeast, the VAB roof dish has begun receiving telemetry signals from the payload @ 1.6km. Controllers settling in for ascent
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
once again great weather conditions with the sunrise & balloon has begun its ascent to the upper atmosphere, which is beyond 18km ASL
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good comms bounce from MSV Lymun, crews are still seeing fair weather & getting the balloon ready for release if sunrise confirms conditions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
setting sail now for their next destination ~100km to the north, Lymun crew will launch their 2nd balloon at 3rd sunrise if weather holds
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
recovery of the payload was successful, altho no one is buying Bob's story about being hot & needing a swim to cool off during the operation
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have envelope failure short of max altitude @ 23.9km, slowing ascent denoted minor icing. Lymun has kept pace & is in the area to recover
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have acquisition of signal (AOS) from the balloon payload, now @ 1.8km beginning its ~5m/s vertical ascent to as high as 24.9km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch reported, Tracking Station says VAB roof dish is aligned south ready to pickup telemetry signal once balloon clears the horizon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
comms relayed thru Umbarg reports Lymun is centered in launch zone & crew is prepping for launch to release as soon as Wx confirmed viable
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSA HQ in Umbarg reports MSV Lymun has set sail w/ Specialist Bob & KB crew to be on station by sunrise. Weather remains clear, winds calm
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob is taking the balloons to Umbarg to ship out tomorrow, as usual Landlubber Bill is staying behind & will monitor the mission from KSC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill & Bob prepping 2 KB payloads for tomorrow; VAB prepping for Mk5 booster arrival next wk; HAB readying Civvie on tarmac for flight today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
given that this isn't the first time a payload has had to be recovered off a steep slope Bill admits the lack of gear was a costly oversight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill is back with the UTV crew & payload, will def be including proper climbing gear in future missions. Here's what they had to deal with
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob has secured MSV Lymun for Friday to launch & recover 2 high-altitude payloads for KerBalloon out over the Kerblantic
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after a delicate operation the payload was lowered off the cliff w/o serious damage. Crews packing up to start the long drive back home
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
able to pick up the pace w/daylight UTVs have arrived at the payload location ahead of their 4hr travel estimate and are prepping to recover
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
taking it slow during the nite, UTVs just leaving comm range from Umbarg & relay airship moving back on station. No traversal issues so far
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
2 UTVs have set out to recover yesterday's KB payload, Bill leading while Bob stays at KSC to plan two sea launches for the end of this week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
taking it a bit slower through the darkness, UTVs have thankfully arrived back at KSC without any issues as the dawn begins to break
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
dusk deepens & Bill makes the call that they are familiar enough with the terrain out in the Grasslands by now to continue through the night
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs will pack up & begin to head back to KSC, two will return tomorrow with the proper climbing gear to ascend & then lower the payload
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
updrafts in the area are too strong for an airship to move in, UTV crew lacks proper safety gear to climb. Will have to come back for it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rats, we were hoping it would miss the cliffs and land in a valley but the payload has been caught up on a steep slope. Assessment underway
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
POP! 24.6km envelope has failed - a decent ascent. Chutes are armed, airship says it is coming down in an area with lots of high cliffs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs are already on the move to track it, but are having trouble keeping up over the terrain. Airship relay though able to keep it in sight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
probe has finally cleared the mtns & we have AOS, it is currently @ 11.3km and climbing well, no signs of icing yet, traveling SSE @ 8m/s
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
has anyone realized why the tracking dish is located on that side of the VAB roof? This mission is a clue, as is its current elevation...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
release! Balloon is on its way up into clear skies & technicians just finished orienting VAB roof dish for AOS once it clears horizon & mtns
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KB team out beyond the Western Mtns are setting up the balloon for launch. Once they can see sky conditions better they will release or hold
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a little over 3hrs thx to problems accessing the launch area but slopes were conquered & KB team is busy setting up camp for the nite cycle
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs traveling along well, have been sticking to their scheduled check-ins, now rounding backside of Western Mtns, relay airship is on stn
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
high terrain will be a problem between launch site & us as well as launch site & Umbarg so relay airship will be on station in ~2hr
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob, Bill & rest of KB crew are heading out in three UTVs for bit.ly/Area_X88PT - the ~112km traversal will take them 2.5-3 hours
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon program is planning a mission for tomorrow that will once again spend 3 days max waiting for good conditions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
weekly ops review - 3rd Ed! All hail the weekend - catch up on this past week's activities & w/additional info via bit.ly/KSAOpsSummary8ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Cheranne says that we should be receiving the initial designs sometime late next month. Even w/ our modest budget she says it will be big!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Scientist Cheranne just got back from WBI HQ in Ockr where she met with airship designers to lay out specifications & requirements
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no troubles on the way back, UTVs are unloading now in the HAB. All will need a good wash & wax. Here is a launch photo from earlier today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs are rolling home - watch out for sinkholes! Unfortunately very few signs to tell where they are but sticking to higher ground helps
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs are all loaded up and they will head back to KSC next sunrise. We've already notified Moving Parts Experts Group their data is intact
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
case is severely damaged but is expendable anyways. By taking the brunt of impact payload truss was able to further protect MCU & instrument
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
recovery successful, tho nearly not so: a chute cable snapped causing partial deployment luckily that tilted it to land more on balloon case
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
too little external pressure has caused envelope to rupture at 24.9km - perfect ascent! Chutes armed, UTVs still catching up but are nearby
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've reached minimum contract height of 16.9km & balloon shows no signs of slowing down due to icing. Upper-level winds carrying it @ 13m/s
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
balloon cleared the horizon at 5.7km & we are tracking it upwards at 5m/s, aiming to reach max altitude of 24.9km before envelope failure
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
skies are finally clearing to the north, KB team has released their balloon & are breaking camp to track it for recovery. Awaiting AOS here
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
not only will their supplies run out & no one wants to miss the weekend, cost of airship relay will exceed potential income past today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
back on console for the early team of controllers in the event the KB team is able to launch this day cycle. They *have* to launch today tho
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
fading light means sky conditions can no longer be monitored, KB team standing down 'til 1st sunrise after failing to get good weather again
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
time to give our KerBalloon team another shot at launching. They say clouds are more scattered but higher-level cirrus remain in abundance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good news from the KB team is that it has stopped raining, bad news is that clouds still persist. We'll check on them again next sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon team report they are still getting rained on, thankfully their shelter is keeping them dry so no need to cram into the UTVs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
skies remained cloudy & rain has just arrived over KB team, so they are packing things away for this day cycle. Nice Wx down here though
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rise & shine! KB team readying for launch, altho conditions are still not optimal so they will standby. Bill says he smells moisture in air
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KB team standing down after Wx failed to improve. They have 3 days of supplies, will make another attempt starting at 1st sunrise early tmrw
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb is standing down, but KB team has a larger window in which they can launch, not worried about payload landing at night up in that area
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob reports that weather is currently overcast over their position, so both KB team and Jeb are standing by at launch/flight readiness
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
approaching sunrise, winds still haven't died down. Waiting also for a report from KB team to the north of Wx conditions for balloon launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
central plains are littered w/sinkholes. This is one of the bigger ones, actually forming a temporary lake after enough rain before draining
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
over an hour late, UTVs have finally arrived @ launch site after managing to tow one out of a small sinkhole that partially swallowed it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill & Bob have set off with the KB crew in 3 UTVs, will traverse 84km north over this day cycle, covering ground at an avg of 12m/s
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob & Bill have everything packed up & ready, all 3 UTVs will head out tomorrow shortly before 2nd sunrise to begin their 84km traverse
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon have accepted a 2nd hi-alt contract from Moving Parts Experts Group, 84km north. Bill & Bob will depart on Wed w/3 days supplies
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
everyone enjoy the weekend & hope for better weather! Catch up on this past week's activities via bit.ly/OpsSummary8-7-ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bad news, as sub-optimal ascents due to icing continue to plague the KerBalloon program & lower contract payouts. Still profitable tho
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon has continued to work the tech, but unable to add heating elements to the envelope w/o increasing power req. beyond capability
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs are back, Lymun is just now pulling into port and Bob will head home tomorrow. Great job KB team! Here is a launch photo from earlier
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
arriving shortly before sunset, the UTV crews will use the direct access tunnel from Umbarg to KSC to complete their journey overnight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lymun has recovered the payload & is on its way back to port. UTVs are sticking to their scheduled check-ins, reporting no issues
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
envelope failure at just over 22km thx to some small amount of icing. Chutes armed, Bob reports Lymun is in position for recovery, seas calm
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rooftop VAB dish, now fully commissioned and operational, has picked up the KerBalloon clearing the horizon at 14km - no signs of icing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
still awaiting AOS here but Lymun is tracking the balloon out to sea so UTV crew are packing up to begin driving - heading to Umbarg not KSC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have launch of the KerBalloon, heading up for 24.9km. Will begin gathering temperature data in the upper atmosphere past 19.6km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
sun is up, report from the launch site is mostly cloudy conditions but w/ clear skies following & so they will release the balloon in ~30min
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Lymun is on station & UTV crews are prepping the balloon for launch. Like last mission, launch has to be this day cycle, but at anytime
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
onsite, UTV team is setting up camp for the night cycle while Bob prepares to depart from Umbarg with plans to arrive on station @ dawn
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTV crews are faring well out in the Grasslands. Low terrain means they have a comm balloon to launch for regular check-ins thru Umbarg
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill is heading out with two UTVs for bit.ly/Site_K-119E, expecting to arrive before 3rd sundown. Bob is also on his way to Umbarg
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
while KerBalloon preps for a mission today, Progenitor will be reviewing launch data. Not much to cover, so we expect a report by tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
aaand Bill is back with the UTVs, wrapping up this marathon mission. Did we break even? Eh, getting the science data was the important part!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tongjess is back, dropping off Bob & crew. Here's a photo from the recovery boat as they approached the shore to hunt for the payload
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have another relay airship coming on station as Tongjess is nearly back at KSC while UTV team is just breaking camp & rolling out shortly
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill and the UTVs have stopped for the night, will continue their journey at 4th sunrise. Tongjess can travel @ night so will be back sooner
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
locating the payload was thankfully not an issue & recovery team is hauling it back to the boat then back aboard Tongjess & heading home
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
daylight is fading quick, but the team is no stranger to searching out balloon payloads in darkness. They still wish they had a UTV though!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
what are the chances?? Bob & recovery crew get to make landfall to recover the payload on this island, thankfully not too far inland
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
envelope failure at only 22.4km. Tongjess nearby for recovery but ironically it looks like it could actually be coming down over land...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
caught in an upper-level air stream balloon is almost not ascending at all it's traveling horizontally so fast, moving at almost 20m/s!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
coming up on 18km, ascent is noticeably slowing already. Balloon far enough east UTVs are packing up to head home. Tongjess is tracking
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
signal acquisition, balloon ascending nominally @ 5m/s passing now thru 7km. We expect it to head east, but land team ready to recover too
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KB team still sees clouds overhead but a relatively large patch of clear sky is coming so they have launched. Tracking Stn awaiting AOS
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although we hope conditions improve, always a chance they could worsen instead. Right now could be best! Wx sats will be a welcome thing...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
sun is up, launch conditions are reported to be less than ideal, so we will standby & KB team will monitor. They must launch by 22:20 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
starting to prep for KB launch, Tongjess relaying comms from land team. Have to launch this day cycle, but can wait if weather could improve
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Tongjess has picked up Bob & the recovery crew, heading to bit.ly/Zone_5-3S-actuā¦ for balloon launch as early as 3rd sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KB crew has setup camp after an uneventful 132km traverse & Progeny Mk4 is mounted, undergoing final readiness checks via Launch Control
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs checked in, all good. They can top out at around 18m/s on level ground but generally travel an average of around 12m/s over terrain
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
also being done this day cycle is the roll-out & mounting of bit.ly/ProgenyMk4-5 to the launch base, Bill bummed he can't take part
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
at the launch site ~100km away, a balloon would need to be >8km high in order to be in sight of KSC: sqrt(h(600000*2+h))/1000 (h in meters)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
until MSV Tongjess joins the mission later today, a relay airship will provide comms as distance is too great for a tethered comm balloon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with the first hint of dawn on a moonless night, the KerBalloon UTVs depart w/Bill in the lead. They will be covering familiar terrain in the low light
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Zone is still close enough to launch from land, so original mission remains a GO w/rover teams departing at 2nd sunrise for a 3hr drive
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KB mission brief this morning was thrown into a bit of a tizzy when a crew member spotted a typo in launch site longitude coordinates. Oops!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
5th Mk4 is ready for rollout on Monday reports Simon. bit.ly/ProgenyMk4-4 has final update. Ops summary: bit.ly/OpsSummary7-31ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ has accepted two contracts, both right along the shore so w/prevailing winds will launch on land, recover at sea
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after a grueling 3hr+ trek all three UTVs have arrived back at KSC safely just as full darkness starts to settle in. Welcome home, kerbs!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a couple staff volunteers on duty to keep track of the KB team as they start to head for home from out in the Highlands 100+km west of KSC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KB team will recover the payload and then head home tomorrow, aiming to be back before 2nd sunset so Periapsis can get data when they open
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
envelope failure @ 22.6km but we saw it coming as ascent rate slowed due to ice buildup. Guess conditions weren't as good as team thought
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
AOS from the KerBalloon as it passes through 7.5km. Contract measurements begin at 18.5km so we need to get at least that high
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have a launch report from the Highlands & team on console at Tracking Station are awaiting signal acquisition once balloon clears terrain
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
almost 3rd sunrise, Bill says they are already prepped to launch as soon as they see decent sky conditions. Still 1 more day of supplies tho
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Head of Finances Mortimer has bit.ly/FinanceReport_ā¦ for an extremely profitable July thanks to the success of the Mk4 in reaching space
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
weather clearing nicely both here & at KB launch site, will try again next day cycle. Note our new tracking dish on the VAB roof is complete
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
weather is foggy w/low clouds here so KB team is above that at nearly 1km ASL but they report high-level cloud conditions red. Standing by
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
second KerBalloon launch scrubbed for today. Crew can remain onsite for two more days. Will try again hoping for better conditions tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob is back in Umbarg and will return to KSC tomorrow after making sure the balloon data is delivered to Tiberdyne HQ there in the city
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill reports foggy conditions with sunrise, not surprising for those higher elevations. They will prep to launch, remain ready & monitor Wx
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob has radioed in: good recovery, Tongjess prepping to head back to Umbarg w/ payload. Tiberdyne Aerospace is yet another happy customer š
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
controllers monitoring the sea launch ascent report envelope failure @ 24.1km, within normal limits. Tongjess has tracked & ready to recover
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
lofting a comms balloon, Bill is able to reach Umbarg, relaying to us thru ground line. They have arrived & will camp out till next sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have acquisition of signal (AOS) as the KerBalloon passes thru 7.8km heading for 24.9km if all goes well during the ascent
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch reported from Tongjess, Tracking Station says they are ready to receive telemetry signal once the balloon pops up over the horizon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tongjess is on station & reports decent conditions, mostly clear w/seas <1m. Will prep to launch & standby to see if weather holds
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill is heading out w/ all 3 UTVs - the 3rd only has a driver & contains all the extra camping supplies and equipment + additional fuel
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob has just set sail w/ MSV Tongjess. Both he and Bill have ~100km to travel today in order to get to their respective launch sites
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob has left with one KerBalloon for Umbarg to ship out aboard MSV Tongjess tomorrow. Bill has all 3 UTVs ready for departure at 2nd sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill & Bob working to get the final KerBalloon payload assembled now that extra trusses have arrived since Mk4/5 require 2 now instead of 1
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this airship will be a general research vessel capable of performing its own sci missions but also supporting those of Genesis & KerBalloon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Scientist Cheranne is thrilled. We have begun the process of designing our own airship w/ Wild Blue Industries. They have amazing ideas
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today marks our 3rd trip around the sun since the KSA's first day of operations. Kerzzah!! (We missed announcing our 2nd trip on April 15th)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
everyone happy to be able to run ops again, tho still more repair/cleanup to be done. Recap! bit.ly/OpsSummary7-24ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the mount for the new short-range tracking dish atop the VAB has been installed, the dish itself will be lifted up next week for integration
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
two new contracts signed yesterday for bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ to gather high-altitude temperature & pressure readings scheduled for Aug 1
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob & Bill getting rdy to head out on separate KB missions next wk, 1 for land 1 for sea both hi-alt so packing supplies to wait out good Wx
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no troubles on the traverse back, Bill, Bob & crew are home. Here is a launch photo from earlier this day cycle. Great end to 1st ops day
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
recovery successful! Great job team, bring it on home. Balloon drifted 36km northeast during its flight. UTVs should be back by nightfall
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we monitored a nominal ascent to max altitude thru telemetry signal, payload falling, chutes armed. We await recovery news from the KB team
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch report from the Highlands as KB team lets go a low-alt balloon for its climb to 16.5km. They are loading up the UTVs to track it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
roughly 40km later KB crew have stopped, lofted their antenna and we have confirmation they are in position & will launch at next sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're trying something new this mission: since terrain won't be too high KB crew has a smaller tethered balloon to loft a comms antenna
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill & Bob have grabbed their lunches from the mess along w/ their two other crew members and have departed KSC in 2 UTVs for launch site
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob & Bill are working with KerBalloon for today's mission, UTVs are set to arrive shortly before 3rd sunset to bit.ly/Sector_QKRM
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
senior staff & crew gathering in the Admin bldg for 1st daily ops meeting in 2wks! Been a struggle but we are gradually returning to normal
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
coming back online Tuesday, we will have a KerBalloon mission to bit.ly/Sector_QKRM & a Genesis mission scheduled for Thursday
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSA will be offline tomorrow while our sysadmins perform a full diagnostic on our servers after this past week of replacing hardware
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronauts are all back and ready to continue with their duties next week, more focused than ever. "Can't stop won't stop space or bust!"
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
get the rundown on the current status of KSC, the next Mk4 launches and Monolith investigations - bit.ly/OpsSummary7-17ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we plan to have enough recovery work done today & this weekend to be able to launch two missions, a KerBalloon and Civvie flight, next week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've successfully negotiated an extension for our existing KB contract, and bit.ly/GenesisProgram has also picked up two new ones
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's going to take 3wks to get KSC back to full ops, but early Aug will see back-to-back Mk4 launches to clear the way for Mk5 later in Aug
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
recovery plan meeting underway while comm techs are busy finishing up repairs allowing us to speak directly to Umbarg & other cities again
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSC damage assessment complete, tomorrow senior staff will meet to lay out the recovery plan & scientists will begin detailed Monolith study
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSC full damage assessment is still underway, most staff pulling OT this weekend to inventory everything that needs to be fixed or replaced
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
tl;dr - the Monolith electronically fried the entire KSC campus when the Mk4 passed 70km, also managed to knock out Umbarg & Kravass
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/KSA-Statement this is our Ops Summary for this week, because there's really not much else to talk about
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today is our 300th day of operations! Tho, not much going on as everybody is taking a well-deserved rest prior to a mad crazy launch week š
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
closing out another great week, get caught up & learn more details via bit.ly/OpsSummary7-3-ā¦ - have a great weekend everyone!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
passing east of bit.ly/Sector_QKRM, Jeb is also doing some reconnaissance for KerBalloon to ensure UTVs can access the launch zone
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb will at least be able to clear this terrain to gain access to the backside of Western Mtns, but still unknown if he can go all the way
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
coming about west after takeoff, climbing to 800m then turning north Jeb is through 1km for 2.7km hdg335, ~70m/s for a nice easy climb
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
altho Jeb is already out inspecting & preflighting Civvie #2, we're still unsure if low clouds will allow him to carry out today's mission
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a bit later than planned but both UTVs have rolled back into KSC. Flat tire was from a puncture - terrain can be rough out there!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
report from Bob is that Bill is changing a tire on one of the UTVs that went flat. No biggie, each UTV carries a spare. Air compressor too
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're getting staticky comms but it sounds like the UTVs are getting ready to roll & expect to be back at KSC within the hour. Travel safe!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
yet another temperature survey for bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ - ultimately temperature data seems more valued than pressure data
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill confirms the payload has landed intact, on the ground, and they are disassembling to pack it home. Plan to wait for 3rd sunrise though
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have envelope failure due to lack of external pressure, UTVs have been tracking & are ready to recover. Hoping it stays out of the trees
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob drove to a nearby hill to send us this photo from where he could see KSC. Balloon is already too high to be seen, but launch site marked
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon launched <2min ago, crews are monitoring initial ascent & we have AOS at 448m as it clears a few low hills. On the way to 16.5km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs are at the launch site & assembling the payload. No need for comms relay, still within range of regular comms & almost in sight of KSC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob & Bill along with crew in a 2nd UTV are heading north to bit.ly/Eumons_Tears - easy launch, low-alt balloons are hardy carriers
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here's a gallery of photos taken from the camera - imgur.com/a/6dwlD. Not many because we have lots more here flickr.com/photos/kerbal_ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs have made it back to KSC without issue & are dropping off the payload at R&D for Wernher & his team to fully analyze tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill says they are heading back with the payload, should not have any trouble navigating at night but have supplies if they need to stop
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have envelope failure at 23.8km, UTVs are heading out - balloon is about 43km SW of KSC. Chutes are armed. Wernher is smiling again
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
balloon has caught an upper-level stream of air but as predicted is being pulled westward & staying over land. UTVs are readying to deploy
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
yep those are cameras on the payload truss, one pointing out, another down. We will post photos from them later today after payload recovery
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch! Dawn breaks w/ clear skies & no wind. Clouds in distance show upper-level winds favorable. We have no idea why Bill is waving g'bye
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob & Bill getting back to launch readiness. Balloon to be released as soon as good sky conditions are seen after sunrise in just over 30min
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon crew is standing down until 3rd sunrise. Keep your digits crossed everyone! Wernher is starting to get rather impatient...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
sun rises at KSC to cloudy skies & unfavorable winds. Bob & Bill getting things prepped anyways, will stand at launch readiness & monitor Wx
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
likewise, out of time to launch gravioli mission to ensure recovery before sunset, as winds have not changed. There's always tomorrow!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
while we are disappointed that we will lose this contract due to the deadline being today, we are proud to say safety is our first priority
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob reports they are standing down, returning to port. Seas were *just* within recovery limits but they didn't want to chance it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon is working on integrating heating elements into gas envelope to prevent icing but additional power demands may exceed batt power
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
sun is up over KSC, skies mostly clear but winds still out of NNE. Do not want this instrument in water. Standing by at launch readiness
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Tongjess has set sail ahead of sunrise to be on station when it is light enough for a launch. Conditions are now looking promising
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mortimer has closed the books on a profitable June, you can see all our income/expenses by month/program/vessel via bit.ly/FinanceReport_ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
conditions also remain unfavorable here at KSC for launch of the negative gravioli test balloon, we will try again (again) with 3rd sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
too late now to launch & recover before nightfall. Seas not worsening but w/Umbarg only 20km away Tongjess will berth itself this nite cycle
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
back on station, Tongjess is reporting 3-4m waves and high winds. Ok for ship of its size, not ok for smaller recovery vessel. Standing by
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Tongjess is heading back out to sea, despite reports that seas remain rough. Last day for contract, so we want to be ready just in case
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bummer that winds are favorable today but clouds conditions are not for our negative gravioli test flight. Will give it another go tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
on station offshore from Umbarg, seas remain rough, which will endanger recovery. Tongjess will put into port and we will try again tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Tongjess is picking up Bob & a balloon then setting sail for bit.ly/Zone_39-W - hoping for calmer seas when they get there
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
next to the R&D campus are garages that store vehicles used for various tasks around KSC, from mounting rockets to moving heavy parts
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're scrubbing all missions & calling it a week! *shakes fists at the sky* learn more of this week's activities: bit.ly/OpsSummary6-26ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
both bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ & bit.ly/GenesisProgram have signed onto 1 new contract after today's proposal review. Harsh! Many rejections
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this may not be feasible even w/Genesis support. We are once again considering investing KerBalloon profits towards our own airship from WBI
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon giving xtra consideration to the logistics of this contract. Long distance + heavy terrain in all recovery areas except southeast
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
sun not yet risen but still raining off & on and stars are not visible so it's safe to say weather is continuing to not cooperate today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
both programs are passing the time while on standby reviewing contract proposals, great to see so many submissions from various agencies!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Genesis is standing down for this day cycle, but KerBalloon can launch anytime - still awaiting clear skies & winds out of the east though
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's been rainy and gloomy out since earlier today & doesn't look like it's going to let up anytime soon. Still, Genesis & KB are on standby
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill & Bob are also scrubbing for today. Clouds have broken but winds have picked up from the north. Want land recovery & less air moisture
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Val is standing down, but KerBalloon still has a shot, as long as clouds clear before 3rd sunset & winds stay calm or out of the east
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
sun is high & clouds are low. Val to remain at flight readiness as we monitor conditions. Heavy cloud cover also means KerBalloon on standby
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb & Val are prepping for today's Civvie flight while Bill & Bob rdy to deploy a KerBalloon from KSC, both missions launching @ 3rd sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lymun has pulled into port at Umbarg, Bob will be back at KSC tomorrow. He caught Minmus (upper-right) at 2nd sunrise prior to 1st launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it took a bit of searching with 1-2m waves making it hard to see very far over the water & no Mun to help but payload has been recovered
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
full ascent! Envelope failed due to external pressure dropping < 1kPa just shy of 25km. Chutes armed & Lymun again in position for recovery
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
telemetry signal has been acquired by the Tracking Station as the payload clears the horizon, passing through 4.7km again going for 24.9km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
clear skies & launch of today's 2nd high-alt KerBalloon reported, 79km south-southeast so about same AOS time with no land to get in the way
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ have signed a new contract with KAX - everyone is loving our high-altitude temperature surveys it seems
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
report from MSV Lymun out in the Kerblantic is skies remain mostly cloudy. They are standing by at launch readiness, monitoring conditions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
while Bob is out at sea, Bill has been readying another KerBalloon for launch tomorrow from KSC to test the Negative Gravioli instrument
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lymun has reported on station, seas have gotten rougher & skies are cloudy. Too late in day cycle to launch anyways, waiting for 3rd sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Payload has been recovered, returned to Lymun & recovery craft re-berthed on stern water ramp. Lymun underway now to bit.ly/Kathies_Prize
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
envelope failure @ 24.7km, chutes armed & Lymun has been tracking the payload southeast. Recovery ship launched to be nearby at splashdown
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
passing through 4.6km we have signal acquisition of the KerBalloon payload, on its way up to a max altitude of 24.9km if all goes well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have launch confirmation, payload is ascending at 5m/s, expecting it to clear the horizon ~5km, depends on terrain of island in the way
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good skip comms from Lymun 77km southeast of KSC, they are prepping for launch after confirming good weather conditions after 2nd sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV cutters like the Lymun (and Tongjess) can travel up to 50km/h over calm seas so unless conditions worsen should be on station in ~2hrs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob is glad he's just a passenger - going back to sleep while MSV Lymun departs Umbarg for its 108km journey to bit.ly/Sector_MJD6
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob is off to Umbarg with 2 balloons to head out again w/MSV Lymun to launch tomorrow, Wx permitting. Will leave port prior to 2nd sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
making better time than predicted, Bill & crew are rolling back into KSC. Here's an img we have of the KerBalloon stuck in the tree. See it?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs have broken camp out to the north & are back to roving with about 75km of ground remaining to cover before they will arrive back at KSC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KB crews stopping for the night cycle, still have about 1h47min left of travel time left, they will pickup the traverse at next sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
if all goes well we will loft it into the upper atmosphere aboard a balloon at the end of this week to see how well it functions in situ
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Head of R&D Wernher & his team have finally delivered the first prototype of the negative gravioli instrument to the VAB for final testing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill reports they've managed to get the payload down without damaging it or anyone on the crew in the process. Are loading up & heading back
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
payload finally located - it was hard to find because it is hung up in a tree again. These are not small trees out there. Time to climb!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs are rolling, airship has provided a 10km area 38km NNW of the launch site in which to search for the payload, transponder still active
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs will head out to track down the payload at 3rd sunrise. Bob meanwhile has just arrived back at KSC from his extra day stay in Ockr
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
early envelope failure @ 20.6km, unfortunately launch Wx was very overcast, leading to moisture buildup then icing but > contract altitude
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
passing thru 9.5km we have acquisition of signal from the balloon payload, telemetry stream reads nominal status. Aiming for 24.9km apokee
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch reported, balloon inflated w/o issue, ascending @ 5m/s. Launch site is 113km away so it will be a while until balloon clears horizon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
thru airship comms relay we have report that the UTVs have reached the survey zone & are assembling the payload for launch, night ascent
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're looking into getting a dish installed atop the VAB for KerBalloon payloads to prevent occlusion & just cause it's higher off the grnd
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
before parachutes were integrated with the casing we used Progeny nosecones, so large a 2nd UTV had to carry them. Now just one is needed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
not that anyone's asked, but how do we transport a KerBalloon? Balloon casing goes on UTV roof the rest is packed into the storage container
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill has departed w/2 UTVs for our 2nd attempt at completing our contract up at bit.ly/Pilots_Wonder, will take all day cycle to traverse
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
time to close out the work week! As usual, review of this past week & extra details available in our Ops Summary: bit.ly/OpsSummary6-19ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon (the manufacturer) says it will carry out a review of their quality control after hearing about the over-pressurization failure
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ mission originally planned for Mon has been moved to Wed after landing a new contract also out in the Kerblantic
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
mission is scrubbed today for the KerBalloon crew, they will try again w/ Bill on Monday no matter what as afterwards contract expires
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon is ready for deployment but doesn't look like weather will clear up by next sunrise. UTVs are standing by to depart if it does
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon crew already hard at work getting a new unit prepped for launch later today, altho weather appears to be closing in from the west
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KB crew has made it back to KSC safe & sound, will retry the 2nd launch tomorrow as the contract deadline is still not for a few more days
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KB crew are breaking camp & getting rdy to roll, expecting to be back at KSC before sundown if they don't encounter any problems on traverse
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs will start the 120km trek back for KSC at next sunrise, at least fuel will not be a worry w/o needing to track down the 2nd payload
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KB crew reports inflation failure due to over-pressurization & balloon burst shortly after liftoff. Payload truss damaged, instruments okay
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
roughly 80km later UTVs have reported in from the 2nd launch location & are prepping to repeat 1st ascent/recovery with this balloon as well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs finally tracked down payload 50km WSW from launch site, loading up and then heading off to bit.ly/Pilots_Wonder for 2nd launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
despite iffy launch conditions, a great ascent to 24.6km before envelope failure. UTVs will begin tracking down the payload at 3rd sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
signal acquisition! Balloon has drifted westward enough VAB is no longer blocking the signal. Currently at 18.5km all appears to be nominal
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we don't *need* AOS. Pressure sensors will deploy chutes, but nice to have tlm data for assurance & analysis in case something goes wrong
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're now several minutes overdue to acquire the balloon's telemetry signal, but we suspect the VAB is getting in the way again. Hopefully.
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
w/o direct link we don't have any photos from the mission underway so here's a look at similar weather conditions outside KSC a few mins ago
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch! Not dark yet on the grnd but will be by the time balloon starts gathering data @ 19.1km. Mostly-cloudy conditions may hamper ascent
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs have reached the first launch site & are prepping the balloon. Contract wants a night-time ascent. Will recover payload next day cycle
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
airship also can't remain in sight of both UTVs & KSC when they reach launch area, but it is equipped w/higher-powered over-horizon comms
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
comms relay airship coming on station @ 4km ASL as UTVs travel north into the Highlands & can now no longer remain in direct sight of KSC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTV column departing before sunrise, it will take almost the full day cycle to cover the ~120km overland distance to bit.ly/Elinicas_Legacy
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon crews finalizing prep to head 111km north to launch 2 high-alt payloads tmrw. They don't need Bob or Bill to be around
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after an exhaustive full day of negotiations, bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ has 3 new contracts signed and dated for this week & next
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob & Bill working today w/KerBalloon to vett a number of contract proposals that came in over the last week while they were busy w/missions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
another busy week wraps up here at KSC. Even if you saw it all, additional info almost always included in our bit.ly/OpsSummary6-12ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
successful recovery reported, Tongjess is heading back to port in Umbarg where Bob will rejoin Bill & head back to KSC thru access tunnel
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ascent terminated due to envelope failure @ 24.1km, balloon still over water & Tongjess has kept pace, ready to recover. Chutes are armed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob reports the balloon is currently tracking eastward, although wind direction can change westward as it rises. Bill is standing by on land
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
balloon has cleared the horizon & Tracking Station has a lock on telemetry signal. Altitude is 4.2km ASL & ascent rate is nominal @ 5m/s
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KB team finally has clear skies over the launch site & have deployed gas envelope to begin ascent, aiming for maximum altitude of 24.9km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
3rd sunrise is here, Tongjess is in position for launch, seas are calm but skies are not clear. KB team standing by, monitoring weather
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob is deploying with the MSV Tongjess just offshore from Umbarg to launch the high-altitude balloon, hoping for favorable weather to remain
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill & Bob are leading a crew down to Umbarg w/ a KerBalloon to launch from bit.ly/Jeschels_Luck. Recovery could be over land or sea
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ has signed another contract that will take it 111km to the north of KSC, still doable w/o needing help from Genesis
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
finally rolling back into KSC, Bill & Bob will deliver the payload to R&D then say they're hitting the shower, both are caked in dried mud
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs are still working their way back home, have had to dig the lead vehicle out of the ground twice so far, trying to find firmer ground
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs are breaking camp & getting ready to head back once the sun has risen in a few minutes. They expect to be back at KSC in roughly 1hr
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs have found the payload, confirm it is intact & are dis-assembling to load up for the return trip starting at 3rd sunrise later today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
envelope failure @ 16.5km reported, chutes ready to deploy & UTVs nearby to recover, will have to hunt a bit to spot it in the dark tho
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch was good & now 7min later @ 2.1km we have AOS via the Tracking Station. UTVs already back to rolling to track payload as it ascends
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
report from Bob is that they have arrived at the launch location & are re-attaching the payload truss, prepping to launch in about 20min
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
comms relay airship is reporting on station as UTVs travel into the Highlands. Travel progress is good, UTVs are averaging about 14m/s
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
despite the multiple labels, pathfinder vehicle only carrying LF so very low chance of explosion/fire should any serious accident occur
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
2 UTVs departing for bit.ly/Sector_FY4KLL, Bob & Bill in the carry vehicle w/pathfinder vehicle in front to detect & avoid bad terrain
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill & Bob are prepping with the KerBalloon crews to deploy a low-altitude balloon tomorrow over bit.ly/Sector_FY4KLL 51km to the north
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Deuce is complete! That and more details about today's bizarre KB mission in our ops summary: bit.ly/OpsSummary6-5-ā¦ enjoy the weekend, all
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's getting dark & Lymun has called off the search :/ Better news tho is that Bill returned to KSC earlier with the payload from yesterday
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
greater worry though is that it was dragged too deep & casing integrity was compromised. Wouldn't take much, 150m or so & it would just sink
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no sign of the sunken KB unit yet. Recovery craft has begun a search pattern - it could have floated up in a current & be a few km away
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's surprising that a sea creature would be interested in the parachute but hopefully it doesn't think it tastes good & unit resurfaces
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've heard the recovery crews saw the balloon casing floating beside the chute, which appeared to get pulled under, taking balloon with it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
POP! We have negative vertical spd, balloon envelope failure on schedule. Chutes are armed & Lymun is nearby dispatching the recovery craft
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill has been picked up by the SAR airship to guide them to the general location of yesterday's KB unit, somewhere up on these slopes
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
8min after launch & passing thru 2.4km on its way to 16.5km we have KB unit AOS from the Tracking Station, Flight reports tlm data nominal
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
comms relayed from Umbarg report Lymun is on station & Bob says they are prepping for launch in about 15 mins. Seas remain slight, no prob
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lymun has departed to be at the launch zone around sunrise. Sea conditions are the only thing affecting launch, currently well w/in limits
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill isn't one for sea voyages so has instead spent the day so far planning two more bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ missions for next week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob is driving a KerBalloon down to Umbarg to launch from the port aboard the MSV Lymun to deploy from bit.ly/Catrys_Anomaly @ 3rd sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the UTV column is rolling back in, glad everyone stayed safe. They report ground conditions out there were better than expected after rains
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs are heading back to KSC after determining they can't get to the 2nd payload. We'll call in a search & rescue airship tomorrow to get it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
2nd payload appears to be very high up somewhere on a steep slope. UTV team is trying to determine if they can access it with their vehicles
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
first payload has been located & recovery is underway. After it is partially disassembled & mounted on a UTV roof search for 2nd will begin
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs are in the general location defined by the airship & have spread out to home in on 1st probe's beacon, using all 3 UTVs to triangulate
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill. Bob & KerBalloon crew are rolling out to recover the two probes that landed on the foothills of the Western Mountains earlier today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
airship is in position over general area of the probes, will remain on station to provide comm relay for UTV team deploying at 3rd sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
both probes are descending @ nominal rates, locator beacons have activated. We have an airship moving in to determine locations for UTV team
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
second balloon has popped on schedule also at 16.5km, chutes armed - first probe has deployed chutes successfully & is in controlled descent
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
nominal ascent for first balloon to 16.5km ASL max altitude, envelope failed due to falling external pressure. Chutes armed, balloon #2 next
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
second balloon is away, dish #2 atop the Tracking Station roof has tlm signal. Bob's heading back in to join the UTV team departing later
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
first balloon is away and Tracking Station reports AOS on dish #1. Bob & crew prepping the second balloon for launch in the next few minutes
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
15.5km to the north Bob has informed us he's ready to launch the first balloon, Flight Director Lanalye has given him the GO to launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
loaded up in our boat, Spc Bob & a small crew will launch both balloons from the bay north of KSC - they will be recovered over land by UTVs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
crews getting ready for 2 KerBalloon deployments today: bit.ly/Gilmons_Descent & bit.ly/Site_VNJ-4 are close enough to do together
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
hey now, this is more like it. Hopefully seas calm tomorrow as well so both KB missions can be launched & recovered together as planned
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we will continue to monitor conditions outside thruout the day but as of now the Kerballoon teams are standing down from mission readiness
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
where is the sun? You're looking at it. At least it's been dry for a while, but seas are still rough & high winds are still a worry today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill & Bob remain hopeful the weather will improve to allow them to carry out their joint land/sea KerBalloon missions tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've heard of one airship traveling from Sheltered Rock to Kravass that got blown so far off course it had to turn back or run out of fuel!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
crummy weather still here & all thruout the region thx to asteroid passage. Airship travel taking another major hit to its schedule, delaying some of our shipments
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
weather is back to rainy & windy - we hear thunder but don't see any lightning, must be high up in the clouds. Meteor particle friction?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
AKI has returned to KerBalloon for a 2nd contract even though we failed their last one, confident in our more traditional balloon launching
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all 3 UTVs have made it back safely to KSC, wrapping up another busy week. Here are all the highlights: bit.ly/Ops_Summary5-2ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
also, a launch photo from Bob taken earlier today. Everyone have a nice weekend & continue to ignore all the asteroid doomsayers
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KB crew have broken camp & are on the move, will have to cover more ground on the way home but still plan to make it in before 4th sunset
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
word from KB crew at last: with darkness quick approaching they finally made it into where payload landed OK. Camping out until 4th sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Head of Finances Mortimer has closed the books on May, you can review all our operational transactions at bit.ly/FinanceReport_ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
envelope failure at 23.3km is a pretty good ascent considering launch conditions. Now UTVs have to try to access wherever the payload lands
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have direct signal acquisition from the KB unit, passing thru 6.1km. Contract payout doesn't start until 18km, hoping it gets past 22km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
report in from Bill of a good launch, KB crew hopping back into the UTVs to track the payload while we await AOS from the Tracking Station
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KB crew getting set for launch, they report it's windy but high-altitude balloons aren't *that* fragile. Launch Ctrl team going on console
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KB team have reached Sector SS7DMM, will camp out this night cycle & launch w/3rd sunrise - if Wx is good? All indications point to yes
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs traveling good, last scheduled check-in before arrival. Now driving behind ridges too tall to stay in comms w/o climbing to high ground
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with 2nd sunrise still young Bill, Bob & crew in all 3 UTVs have set off ~100km overland. Relay airship expected on station within the hour
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
dates for 3 additional balloon launches have also been decided for next week, which can be reviewed on bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ page
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob & Bill say they have integrated the new MCU that arrived today, rdy to deploy a high-alt KerBalloon tomorrow at bit.ly/Sector_SS7DMM
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob & Bill are keeping busy assembling the KerBalloon probes that will be deployed starting the end of this wk. New units already on order
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
lunch, served from 12-2, is a great communal time as kerbs gather in the KSC or Support Village cafeterias & discuss their day so far
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we get our first shipment of new MCUs on June 1st so KerBalloon has their next mission scheduled for the 2nd to bit.ly/Sector_SS7DMM
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
alright here we go - all the ops from this past week + exciting details on a newly-captured asteroid, get it here: bit.ly/OpsSummary5-22ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
signing their 4th such contract, KerBalloon is seeing a resurgence in the more-reliable low-alt balloon variant. Now just need a MCU...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
they handed the Genesis team what was left of the KerBalloon & Civvie mount will also be inspected for defects, but not a lot to work with
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
more fallout from yesterday's mission as KerBalloon says they will go alone for now until investigation into air drop mishap is resolved
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
happy to report UTVs have both made it back to KSC safe, thanks again to Luftkor Charters for their airship helping us remain in contact
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs are back to rolling, Bob estimates that they are only about 1.5hrs or so out from KSC if they don't run into any trouble along the way
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no more KerBalloon missions are possible until the first shipment of new MCUs arrives on June 1st. By June 12th tho we will have 10 units
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new parts order already in to replace what was lost today, but still a blow - only MCU remaining already integrated into second Progeny Mk4
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill has commed in to say they haven't made it as close to KSC as they'd like to continue past sundown, are setting up camp til 4th sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill says they are cleaning up what they can find & then starting the trek back for KSC, planning to arrive sometime after 3rd sunset
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
unfortunate news came in during Val's landing: KerBalloon team found the probe in several peices - compressed gas canister burst on impact
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Val is 40km out & has begun her descent from 3.5km - still no report from KerBalloon team as they begin to search the drop site for balloon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Val is back in sight of KSC (look closely along horizon for VAB) but UTV teams still working to access the drop site over some steep ridges
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bad news: negative on visual. Val made two circles before Flight ordered her home. UTVs are 15km away & will move in to investigate
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
clean drop reported by Val, who is regaining control after the CoM change before circling around to get a visual on the balloon's ascent
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Val is leveled off @ 3.5km moving 97m/s, has just dropped below horizon 68km distant & 48km to drop zone, ETA 8min. UTV crew is ready
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
on course to Area C8FN9 after a good departure, Val will continue to climb to 3.5km. Bob, Bill & crew report they are breaking camp
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs have reached bit.ly/Area_C8FN9 after 119km of trekking, setting up camp for this night cycle. Val is finishing breakfast then suiting up
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
airship comms relay has reported on station north of KSC to keep us in contact with UTVs & with Civvie later today for the whole mission
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob & Bill lead out the other UTV, only 2 needed for this trek. We're hoping cloud conditions are better later today for Civvie to fly
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
early start for Bob & Bill today as they round up their other two team members & get ready to head out at sunrise to bit.ly/Area_C8FN9
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill & Bob report UTVs & KerBalloon crews ready for rollout at 2nd sunrise tomorrow. Val says Civvie will be rdy for flight at 3rd sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob has finished up final checkouts for the KerBalloon unit over in the VAB & it is now heading over to the HAB to be mounted to the Civvie
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
those would be Bill's legs as he does what he loves: wrenching. UTVs are getting final checkouts for their overland trek of at least 226km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Val is flying home today, Progenitor team analyzing data from static fire yesterday & KerBalloon team prepping for joint mission tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MCUs run all probes, from KerBalloons to Progeny rockets. Only 2 available til extras arrive in June. Mortimer has freed up funds for more
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Drew has chastised Mortimer for being overly stingy - the part we are short on is of course the most expensive, the main control unit (MCU)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
another low-alt KerBalloon contract signed but due to part shortages only 1 mission can be carried out at at time currently. Next one 5/25
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Head of R&D Wernher Von Kerman reports his team finally had a breakthrough on the negative gravioli detector, plan for a instrument in June
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mk4 conclusions in at last! That and more via bit.ly/OpsSummary5-15ā¦ everyone definitely deserves a nice weekend of relaxation - get to it!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon teams have settled on 2 new contracts, one of which will be another joint KB/Genesis mission for sometime after the one on 5/25
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the KB team took a break from contract proposals after lunch to schedule the next KB/Genesis joint mission for next week on 5/25
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
over in the Admin Building, Bill, Bob & KerBalloon teams looking over several new contract proposals that have come in this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
sneaking in before sunset, Bob is on his way to shore. Thx as always to the Maritime Service for safe return of payloads & crew. Sail safe!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
only moderate seas to contend with, Bob & crew had no trouble hooking the balloon capsule floating in the water. Sailing back to KSC now
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
great to have a perfect ascent of the KerBalloon, failing due to pressure limits @ 24.9km & falling back to Kerbin, Tongjess rdy to recover
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have confirmed AOS of the KerBalloon unit climbing thru 4.8km on its way to (hopefully) 24.9km, gathering pressure data for Silisko Ind.
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob has commed us from MSV Tongjess with a heads up that launch will be in ~15min as skies are almost perfectly clear at their location now
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs have rolled back into KSC. Once Bob finishes his mission KerBalloon will have a bit of a furlough to asses & plan some new contracts
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill has checked in from a high ridge confirming they are returning to KSC with the payload, Integrated Integrals will be happy to hear
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are hoping the clear weather over us continues to make its way out over the Kerblantic to the 2nd KerBalloon team. We'll see 3rd sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
great ascent, envelope failure occurred at 24.2km - full payout range for this contract! We have chute pre-deploy & await word on recovery
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
just 4 minutes after launch we have AOS to the KB unit from Bill's crew, rising through 1.1km. They are piling back into the UTVs to follow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill reports they are at the launch zone, Wx remains clear, prepping for launch. Bob has commed in to say clouds still persist out by them
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Progeny Mk4 is on its way out to the pad to be mounted to the launch base. Skies continue to clear, good news for KB missions today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill leads out another UTV, only 2 needed for this relatively short trek 44km to the north around the bay & up into the Highlands
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
finally, a direct clear comm from Tongjess. Bob says Wx is improving, rain def over but unsure if skies will clear enough. Standing by
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill & KB crew using this night cycle to prep yet another high-alt unit for a mission to bit.ly/Site_W-82 after next sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
making good time, the UTV column has rolled back into KSC after 300km of travel. Payload headed to R&D for data delivery tmrw to Bloeting
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
msg from a merchant ship sailing by us now, contacted by Tongjess enroute, storm at sea not rough but persistent. They will try again tmrw
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
comms from Bill & crew out in the wilderness to say they are rolling again after camping out prev night cycle. ETA to KSC is about 2 hours
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no word from Tongjess, weather must have continued to deteriorate out over the Kerblantic. Will hopefully get a comms checkin next sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill has radioed in to say they have recovered the payload, happy they didn't have to look for it at night. They are starting back to KSC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we now have a pre-arranged deal with agencies on how much is paid to us for the amount of data collected past their contracted altitude
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we saw envelope failure at 21.4km. Chutes have pre-deployed & Bill reports good transponder signal. Data only collected from 19.2km tho :/
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
only 17.3km and we are already seeing a slowing of vertical ascent velocity indicating the formation of ice on the outside of the envelope
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a bit fast on touchdown at 43m/s with a bouncy rollout but Jeb made a picture-perfect approach & is currently taxiing back to the HAB
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tracking Station reports AOS for the KerBalloon, now rising through 7.1km & all nominal so far. Wx is not ideal, so may not reach max alt
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good release of the KerBalloon unit, confirmed ascent from the ground and the air. Bill & crew are off tracking while Jeb heads for home
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no problems clearing the mountains at 2.8km ASL, looking to lvl @ 3km. Jeb is ~7min out from drop, Bill reports they are rdy on the ground
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
report from Tongjess is they are holding launch due to cloud cover. Will hold station & hope for a break at some point before 3rd sunset
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after a standard departure to 800m ASL Jeb is on course now Hdg329, climbing slow to maintain faster horizontal velocity, fuel pumping aft
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mun is even more full now, low to the west & Jeb has his taxi/takeoff clearance from Rwy27 prior to full sunrise thx to the extra light
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Tongjess is on station & team is awaiting sunrise to get a look at what kind of weather conditions they have. Seas relatively calm
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
check-in from Bob aboard MSV Tongjess is they are already working their way north to bit.ly/Hendons_Drift, ETA on station ~1.7hrs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with plenty of sunlight left, UTV crew rolling into the target area & getting setup to track & follow the payload once it is deployed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
comms relay airship has arrived on station. 5.7km cloud ceiling & mostly-clear skies will let it remain stationary over the tallest peak
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill & crew have only 118km to travel outbound this trip so they should be in place prior to 2nd sunset for KB delivery after 2nd sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
thx to familiar terrain & a nearly-full Mun helping to light the way UTVs are getting an early start out to bit.ly/Lisnnes_Crater
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob & crew will use the time before getting on station tmrw to swap the control unit to the second payload. Parts shortages are a pain!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
recovery of the payload has been successful, Tongjess will remain at sea and head out to bit.ly/Hendons_Drift tomorrow for Silisko Ind.
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
excellent job KB crew for monitoring launch conditions! Balloon made it all the way to max alt, has pre-deployed chutes, Tongjess enroute
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have a lock on signal from the KerBalloon unit, rising @ 5m/s passing thru 1.6km on its way (hopefully) to 24.9km, gathering temp data
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Wx conditions are good out at bit.ly/Zone_5-L3DS & KerBalloon team says they are readying for launch. Team on console awaits AOS
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill & his KerBalloon team for joint mission tomorrow have the UTVs all packed up & rdy to go, they will depart like last time @ 1st sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
getting too dark out at sea for a launch, weather still poor. KerBalloon crew will try again after 3rd sunrise. Bob says he's taking a swim
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
taxiing into the HAB after a smooth landing, we're happy to welcome home our new Civvie! It will receive a KerBalloon for mission tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
comm from Tongjess tells us weather conditions are not ideal for launch in the target area, will hold station & wait for clear skies
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our Umbarg office reports that Tongjess has set sail w/Bob, should be on-station in about an hour if seas are calm as reports indicate
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob is leaving for Umbarg in order to board MSV Tongjess, engine repaired, & head out again for bit.ly/Zone_5-L3DS after 2nd sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
OK that's enough! Everybody go home! We've had a busy week, here is our Ops Summary. Enjoy the weekend - bit.ly/OpsSummary5-8-ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Genesis, Progenitor & KerBalloon are all splitting the cost of a parts order to replace shared reusable components lost these last few weeks
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this new joint mission will take both the Civvie & the UTVs farther afield but still well within the ranges of both: bit.ly/Area_C8FN9
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mortimer & Drew were some of the first back to work & already signed off on a new contract for KerBalloon & another joint KB/Genesis mission
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSC will open for afternoon operations to anyone that wants to come in and get some work done before the weekend. If not, enjoy the weekend!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good news from Umbarg is they've got cloudy but sunny skies, so we should see some relief soon as well.
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSC remains closed due to extreme weather. We're hoping for an abatement later today but for now everyone please remain indoors & stay safe
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
storm has arrived in force, horizontal rain included. We recommend everyone remain indoors & will keep employees posted on KSC ops status
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Umbarg has just closed their surface doors, which means the storm is getting bad down there, still headed our way. KSC getting ready for it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
seas remain too rough for any KerBalloon missions today & unless coming storm veers offshore looks like for the rest of the week as well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob is hitching a ride back to KSC tomorrow & we will see how the weather holds for additional high-alt sea launches this week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob sent over this photo of launch under ominous skies, says it was perfectly clear if you turned around. Seas are already looking rough tho
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
disappointed as we are with the loss of the KerBalloon unit, we're very happy no crew were lost in an attempt to recover it from stormy seas
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Umbarg offices just called to report Tongjess has limped into port, all crew safe but could not reach KB before rough seas took it under
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
patchy signal just came thru, we think they are making for port in Umbarg. Have notified our offices there to be on the lookout for the ship
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've commed Tongjess for an update, but looks like worsening weather is interfering. Everyone sitting tight hoping all is well out at sea
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KB chutes have deployed after falling from 23.761km, great ascent considering conditions. Awaiting word from Tongjess on recovery results
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
speed reduction is from one screw running at only 70% to not overcome rudder authority + seas becoming rough w/2-3m waves. Hang on, Bob!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tongjess reports failure of one of her two engines, reduced to ~3m/s. KB currently outpacing it, swept up in westerly winds pushing it 9m/s
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tracking Station reports AOS @ 3.9km, all telemetry data shows ascent nominal. Tongjess is tracking, balloon currently drifting west @ 3m/s
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
balloon is away! Wx conditions not optimal, but clear skies visible & crew is betting on clouds moving on before balloon climbs that high
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have good skip today & Tongjess reports they are approaching station & rdying for launch. We expect AOS from the KB unit at only ~4km ASL
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tongjess has set sail for bit.ly/Area_H2W37 73km to the south, hoping weather clears more by the time they get there in ~84min
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all loaded up! Bill at least stuck around to bid Bob a safe journey, says he still prefers his feet on solid ground. We find that funny...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've been hailed by Tongjess, holding station just offshore & sending a launch to pickup the KerBalloons. Bill, Bob & crew rdy on the beach
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VAB is closing out work on 2 KerBalloons to deploy today from the MSV Tongjess, arriving @ 2nd sunrise, for hi-alt contracts south of KSC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
additional KerBalloons delivered, keeping us stocked for more missions. One more shipment due today & we are all excited for it to arrive!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good debrief, everyone happy with how things are running. Next joint mission will be 5/16 to bit.ly/Lisnnes_Crater 84km to the north
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill reports that their rovers traveled a total of 561km on this trip, a little less than half the range possible with 3 UTVs to work with
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all participants of yesterday's mission are gathering in Launch Control for debrief. Will compare this mission to last, plan for future one
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're happy to welcome back all 3 UTVs safe & sound from their long journey, everyone happy with today's mission & rdy for debrief tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSC Ho!!! Bob just sent this photo from the lead UTV in the column now that they can see KSC again. He estimates they are 30-45mins out
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
looking north, night looms but Bill says he recognized a boulder, is back in familiar territory & will lead the column on thru the darkness
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no news will be good news, UTVs are only to report in if they encounter trouble. RF beacon every 15min lets us know they're still on channel
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
word from Bob is that they are back to rolling, hope to make it to KSC shortly after nightfall. He says Bill is driving so, yea - probably
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
having made good progress now that they know the areas of firmer ground to travel upon, UTVs are setting up camp for this coming night cycle
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill has radioed in to report they have recovered the KB unit, altho Bob & another crew member had to climb a tree to get it down. hdg home!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've had premature envelope failure at 21.7km, unit has armed chutes to deploy @ 1km & UTVs report a good signal from the tracking beacon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Flight is reporting a noticeable decrease in the ascent rate for the KerBalloon, which means either a gas leak or the weight of ice
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after a 5km final Jeb kissed the ground with a 40m/s touchdown and a smooth roll out - well, relatively. The runway itself is a bit bumpy
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tracking Station reports we have just picked up signal from the KerBalloon as well, passing through 9km @ rising at a nominal 5m/s
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
airship is on the move back to station 2 to let us keep in touch w/UTV teams as we now have AOS for Civvie, 14.5km/2min out from waypoint
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
due to low cieling, airship has to move between two stations to remain in comms w/ Civvie or UTVs. Currently talking to just Jeb now
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have confirmed visual on the balloon inflated & ascending from ~700m below the drop point. Jeb is vectoring around the mtns on Hdg180
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb reports clean release of the payload, is recovering attitude, re-balancing his fuel tanks & coming about to check on balloon ascent
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
trimmed lvl @ 3.5km Jeb is cruising close to 100m/s and is already just over 4 minutes out from the drop zone. UTVs are close & rdy to track
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb has departed from Rwy27, winds light & variable from the WSW, he was hoping for more headwind to help lift him over the mountain pass
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs have made their overnight stop. Dealing w/ terrain being muddier than usual has slowed their progress but so far none have gotten stuck
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're also hoping the skies clear more later for the balloon drop to ensure it has the best chance possible to avoid any icing on ascent
Kerbal Space Agency
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relay airship is on station. Winds are light, which will make station keeping easy but cloud cieling is low @ 4.6km so that will be an issue
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob, Bill and the other 4 recovery crew members have departed KSC for their ~220km journey to the deployment area, bit.ly/Zone_6-VZLB
Kerbal Space Agency
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UTVs are set to roll out at 1st sunrise tomorrow to officially begin the second joint Genesis/KerBalloon mission. Get some rest crew!
Kerbal Space Agency
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the final analysis on the Progeny Mk3 dominates the report for this short operational week. Good weekend, all! bit.ly/OpsSummary5-1-ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
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KerBalloon & Genesis teams report all is rdy for the mission on Mon, set to depart earlier than last time - UTVs will roll out @ 1st sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs are fueled up and loaded up with supplies, while the HAB finishes work later this afternoon on mounting the KerBalloon to the Civvie
Kerbal Space Agency
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today Genesis & KerBalloon are prepping for their joint mission on Monday while Progenitor finishes review of Mk3 launch data from last week
Kerbal Space Agency
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May is in fact already looking strong as we have signed a whole bunch of contracts for bit.ly/GenesisProgram & bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
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Mortimer has posted our April bit.ly/FinanceReport_ā¦ and it's nice to see a full spread of green numbers again! Revenue growth is projected
Kerbal Space Agency
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party on everyone! For those not able to attend, here is our weekly recap. Everyone enjoy their time off! bit.ly/OpsSummary4-24ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
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Progenitor isn't the only program busy today. Genesis & KerBalloon teams have worked out their next joint mission plan to carry out May 8th
Kerbal Space Agency
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Mortimer says that up until today, Apr was looking like our 3rd straight month in the red for net profit & now we're well in the green again
Kerbal Space Agency
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Wobbly Rockets has signed on for a hi-alt KerBalloon launch at bit.ly/Zone_5-L3DS, which we will collaborate on w/ the Maritime Service
Kerbal Space Agency
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Bill reports all 3 UTVs have been checked over & came through their longest overland journey to date in great shape, are ready for another!
Kerbal Space Agency
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rumors about retiring the low-altitude KerBalloon units are false - we don't have aircraft that can cover the full height of lower atmo yet
Kerbal Space Agency
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HAB is done modifying the Civvie Production model & we're keeping it in the VAB to further prep it for next month's KerBalloon joint mission
Kerbal Space Agency
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as we focus resources on the upcoming Progeny Mk3 launch we are planning for this second extended joint mission to take place in early May
Kerbal Space Agency
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DMagic Orbital Sciences was impressed with our mission for Rokea and has signed up for a similar aerial survey near the same location
Kerbal Space Agency
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Bob says the UTV trip odometers read a total of 434km were traversed yesterday on their journey to collect the KerBalloon and return
Kerbal Space Agency
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welcome home! After getting close enough to KSC the recovery team traveled thru part of the nite, are heading straight for their comfy bunks
Kerbal Space Agency
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recovery teams wasting no time, eager to get home & report they are already rolling as the sun crests the horizon out west in the highlands
Kerbal Space Agency
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our day is still far from over but you can catch up on everything else from this past week in our ops summary - click the img below!
Kerbal Space Agency
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recovery teams will start home, a little light left, spend another night out in the wilderness & plan to roll back into KSC early tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
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Bill has radioed in and says they have the KerBalloon unit intact! Wonderful success of this most complex mission to date has everyone very pleased
Kerbal Space Agency
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Bob reports that they have a good ping from the transponder & are continuing to track its descent for them to recover it once it lands
Kerbal Space Agency
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after ascending to 23.8km ASL the balloon burst & we have confirmation of chute deploy. So close to max 24.9km, almost as good as expected
Kerbal Space Agency
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passing through 11km the KerBalloon has finally cleared the mountains and we have telemetry data! All is looking good. Fingers crossed...
Kerbal Space Agency
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after a 5km final approach Jeb has made a smooth landing, says pumping back the fuel makes the Civvie just float down so easily. Loves it!
Kerbal Space Agency
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Jeb has the Civvie re-trimmed & has come about, reports the balloon in sight looking nominal in ascent! Now on to bit.ly/Site_TTNC
Kerbal Space Agency
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good drop! Jeb followed same procedure as Val and is also pumping fuel forward again to account for the loss of mass under the nose tank
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
trimmed out level @ 3km Jeb has the Civvie traveling ~100m/s, heaters on - it's only 39Ā°F up there! Getting rdy for payload drop in ~5min
Kerbal Space Agency
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after making it through 3km Jeb has come about & is passing over the mountains. We've marked the location of our relay airship on this photo
Kerbal Space Agency
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at full positive pitch trim, Jeb still needs more climb angle so is pumping fuel back from the forward tank to help raise the nose higher
Kerbal Space Agency
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not going to make it! Jeb sent us this photo and informs us he is turning about to continue climb further before passing over the mountains
Kerbal Space Agency
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Jeb is thru 1.6km clawing for altitude, has turned from rwy hdg direct now to waypoint Hdg315, attempting to make it over the mountain pass
Kerbal Space Agency
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recovery team is underway again towards the drop zone, they do not have to be in position @ time of drop, will travel w/balloon after deploy
Kerbal Space Agency
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Val got a photo of Jeb's departure, which was without issue. He's currently climbing slowly but steadily & trimming out his sideslip
Kerbal Space Agency
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taxi & takeoff clearance have been granted, Jeb is on the way out to Rwy27. Skies clear w/cirrus, winds out of the WNW 4-8kts gusts to 10
Kerbal Space Agency
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Cpt Jeb is out for his walkaround inspection, making sure the mount mechanisms are holding up well since the Civvie was deployed earlier
Kerbal Space Agency
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we're getting decent weather reports from airship captains traveling near our contract zone. This balloon could make it all the way up
Kerbal Space Agency
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HAB has the high-altitude KerBalloon from yesterday re-mounted to the Civvie and have rolled it out to the tarmac for its flight later today
Kerbal Space Agency
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recovery team reports that they are stopping for the night, have covered good ground & estimate they are only 1.5hrs out from drop zone
Kerbal Space Agency
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airship can only relay communications, not data like photos or telemetry, but Lanalye demanded it after the last long land journey disaster
Kerbal Space Agency
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airship has arrived on station over the mountains so we can remain in contact with rovers and also with Civvie once it goes over the mtns
Kerbal Space Agency
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UTVs have departed to begin their long trek out to the drop zone. Will travel all day cycle, stop overnight & continue after 3rd sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ground distance to the drop zone, which is 92.7km away from KSC as the plane flies, will take the UTVs around 180-200km, ~4.5-5hrs
Kerbal Space Agency
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air route is pretty straight-forward, but the recovery team will have the longer journey to avoid any potentially treacherous terrain
Kerbal Space Agency
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launch control is *packed* as crew from Genesis & KerBalloon as well as support staff & astronauts are all assembled for mission briefing
Kerbal Space Agency
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Bob & Bill are out early to help the KerBalloon crews get the UTVs loaded up, fueled up and overall prepped for departure at next sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
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both Bill & Bob say they are rdy for another long overland journey in the UTVs, any trauma from the last journey has faded w/o post effects
Kerbal Space Agency
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this mission is a big deal both in terms of scope & collaboration so here is a press release with all the details: bit.ly/KB_Gen-PR
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon teams have agreed to proceed with the mission to drop a balloon for envelope deployment in conjunction with Genesis Program
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
great flight, C7 will analyze CoM adjustments made by fuel balancing. KerBalloon team will decide if full balloon drop mission is a Go
Kerbal Space Agency
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Wooooowwwww Val finally has a landing to match Jeb's. Smooth as a baby's bottom! Looks like even small fuel balance changes can work wonders
Kerbal Space Agency
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now on final 7km out Val has informed Flight she has good visual on the approach markers, reports aircraft pitch balance is *much* better
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have successful recovery of the KerBalloon unit. Val is pumping fuel back from the nose tank to the main & tail tanks to see what happens
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Val is abeam the start of Rwy09 7km to the south 1km ASL on downwind leg, KerBalloon still a few hundred meters up, falling at nominal rate
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
pitch-down maneuver also helped with the nose rising after the payload was detached. Val is now coming about & descending for pattern entry
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good drop! Pitching down to prevent a possible tail wheel strike, KerBalloon has flown free & deployed chutes. Val has recovered w/o issue
Kerbal Space Agency
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~1min to drop, Val is just flying while Flight monitors position to command the release. She has throttled back to anticipate load change
Kerbal Space Agency
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photo sent from the nose cam as Val heads back for KSC, where we will aim to have her drop the KerBalloon unit just west of the main campus
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
19km west of KSC Val is through 1.2km & coming about, still not struggling for altitude but definitely noticing the slower climb performance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
climbing steadily, Val reports that she has good control & belly weight/drag of the KerBalloon is not overcoming her pitch authority at all
Kerbal Space Agency
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Val has departed from Rwy09 and is banking away from KSC while climbing to head west, gain altitude then head back over KSC for the drop
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after an extended check-out to ensure the KerBalloon unit was attached properly & communicating well, Val has her taxi clearance to Rwy09
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
mission brief complete, Val will drop the KerBalloon unit over KSC. Unit will deploy chutes and land, will not deploy envelope and ascend
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Val is on her way to the ready room in the Astronaut Complex to get suited up while the C7 flight control team begins to assemble
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're expecting good weather with 2nd sunrise, last day cycle had great conditions & no reports from region of bad weather moving through
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're going to hope the weather cooperates better tomorrow & are standing down from flight-readiness. Val bummed, but knows thems the breaks
Kerbal Space Agency
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although clearer now than prev day cycle, Wx minimums are still in violation & Civvies remain grounded. Will continue to monitor conditions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill reports all three UTVs are in tip-top shape. Bob has been pouring over topography maps to plan the route out to bit.ly/Kirrims_Dawn
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Val is standing down, we will hope for better weather conditions after 3rd sunrise. Civvie remains secure, tied down out on the tarmac
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Wx report for flying this day cycle is coming in with poor results, low cloud cover and strong winds. Val will remain on standby tho
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon unit is ready to be mounted to the belly of the Civvie Production model at this time, test flight tomorrow after 2nd sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill has been helping to give our UTVs complete maintenance checks. They could be making their longest round-trip journey later this week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
C7 reports that flight data from Civvie's last outing carrying the atmo analyzer looks good & HAB is mounting the KerBalloon later today
Kerbal Space Agency
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Head of R&D Wernher Von Kerman has announced work has begun on our new general-purpose science instrument, a negative gravioli detector
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
so ends another day of operations here @ KSC but this one was special: today we've orbited Kerbol twice since the start of the KSA. Kerzzah!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all the parts for our Progeny Mk4 rockets & also the radial decouplers for the Civvie payload carry have arrived for VAB to begin processing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've been hailed by MSV Tongjess & it will be delivering our payload to us shortly. Another mission success for the KerBalloon Program!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tongjess will be collecting the payload & returning straight to us afterwards so we expect to hear from them sometime in the next 1.5-2 hrs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ascent of the KerBalloon was without issue, unit has fallen from max altitude after envelope failure & we have chute deploy confirmation
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have signal acquisition, telemetry shows balloon in nominal ascent rate of 5m/s passing through 700m altitude. Will ascend to 16.5km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch ctrl is ready for AOS, expecting launch of the balloon sometime in the next 30min, over-horizon comms not coming through well today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tongjess reports anchors aweigh, heading for bit.ly/Jebs_Junkyard contract site 39km east, seas calm, ETA on station in about 45 mins
Kerbal Space Agency
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MSV Tongjess standing by to receive a KerBalloon, once again Bob will accompany the away team while Bill assists w/monitoring in launch ctrl
Kerbal Space Agency
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MSV Tongjess will be sticking around so that tomorrow it can take aboard a KerBalloon & set sail for bit.ly/Jebs_Junkyard contract site
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
just 335m short of the water (1.4km from the launchpad) the payload has landed safely & is being recovered by our UTV teams. Sry Tongjess š¬
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after days of negotiating, Armstrong Siddeley & Royce Engineering agreed they owe us partial payment for hi-alt balloon data that fell short
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after the MSV Tongjess assists us with the (hopefully) recovery of the Mk3 payload next wk it will sail out for a low-alt KerBalloon mission
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we'll be calling on the Maritime Service to help us with this latest contract for bit.ly/Jebs_Junkyard (no relation to our Captain Jeb)
Kerbal Space Agency
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MSV Tongjess has sailed w/in range of better comms & reports it is heading back with an intact payload. As always, many thanks to their crew
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
despite careful monitoring of launch conditions balloon did not make max alt & burst short @ 21.7km. Chute pre-deploy confirmed before LOS
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
tracking station reports aquisition of signal from the KerBalloon probe, launch ctrl says it's at 6.6km & climbing steadily over target area
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're having trouble receiving clear comms from Tongjess but they are trying to transmit *something*. Launch ctrl is on console rdy for AOS
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
report from out at sea compares to the weather we have here. Tongjess will remain at launch readiness throughout the daylight hours today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Tongjess has departed for bit.ly/Manleys_Lament 102km SE & will look to deploy tomorrow. Bob staying ashore to help Progenitor Program
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've renegotiated with the Maritime Service & MSV Tongjess, on station for our launch, will depart for a hi-alt balloon mission 4th sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Civvie Production flight data analysis matches well with simulations & we're confident it can carry a KerBalloon belly-mounted payload
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've made our first order from Modular Rocket Systems for the mini radial decoupler they won the manufacturing contract for back in January
Kerbal Space Agency
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now that he's completed bit.ly/FinanceReport_ā¦ Mortimer can focus on making sure the Progenitor account is all balanced for launch
Kerbal Space Agency
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time for another retrospective look at KSA milestones as Duna completes its first orbit around Kerbol since our space program began last yr
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today is the start of our 200th day of operations since launching our program back in Sept 2016! The next 200 look to be just as awesome
Kerbal Space Agency
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we're getting better cabling installed with a semi-conductive sheath to hopefully prevent tunneling animals from chewing through it again
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
late start to the day at KSC after power was restored from an outage; our main power conduit from Umbarg was cut. Fried animal found, dead
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
debrief of Cdr Val is overall positive in her opinions of the new aircraft. Civvie to undergo some slight changes: bit.ly/Genesis-PR6
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our new corporate HQ in Umbarg City opened today. Drew says he'll miss being around KSC campus all the time but will still work both sites
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob had his final post-op medical checkup & docs report he has no complications from Jan's accident. Great news š Now get back to work!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this will make it easier for us to host meetings & deal w/offsite matters w/o need for all the security clearances to access the KSC campus
Kerbal Space Agency
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some staff are preparing to move back to Umbarg this weekend & our new corporate offices (former quarantine location) will open next week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's been a great week of operations picking back up, get caught up on all the details via bit.ly/OpsSummary3-6-ā¦ - hooray weekend!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill snags a photo of Bob & the payload as the launch craft returns them to shore. Thanks again to the Maritime Service for their assistance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon recovery was successful, Bob reports the chute floated well in the water long enough for it to be easy to snag & haul aboard
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
balloon has burst at 16.5km, the launch craft is circling around the recovery area waiting to spot the chute & get near it as it comes down
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
balloon ascent nominal & Bob is getting his crew in the launch craft to see how well a rocket chute floats in the seconds after splashdown
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
w/ help of Jeb, Val lugged her old smaller scope to the top of the VAB & took this photo of the KerBalloon launch from the Tongjess just now
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tongjess is on station just 7km offshore @ bit.ly/Zone_5-BBQ & Bob's crew already has balloon ready to go. Launch ctrl says "send it!"
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Wx still a little rough from recent storms but low-alt balloons more tolerant of launch conditions. Tongjess seen prepping to weigh anchor
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tongjess will remain anchored here & tomorrow will head just offshore to bit.ly/Zone_5-BBQ for the launch of a low-altitude balloon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Tongjess has anchored offshore & its launch has delivered the probe to us, now in the VAB. Bob took this as it neared KSC from the south
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Tongjess reports probe collection intact prior to splashdown! They almost had to fish Bob out of the water tho. On the way back now
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
maneuvering a small boat to collect the payload before it splashes down is how we'll recover Progeny Mk3 probes, this is a trial exercise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we had a complete ascent, good descent & payload is now under chute within sight of Tongjess' launch craft moving under it for recovery
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
high-altitude balloon ascent remains nominal. Flight time to upper-limits of the envelope is ~1h20m so expecting recovery phase in ~20-25min
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we confirmed launch just over 9min ago and have picked up signal from the balloon now at 2.7km as it clears the horizon, relaying this image
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
crews out on the MSV Tongjess already prepping launch of the high-altitude ballon, say skies have been clear all night, air relatively dry
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
balloon conditions were good after 1st sunrise today but of course launch ctrl closed. Hi lvl clouds now but maybe clear again 3rd sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
once again, we're going to hope for better weather conditions tomorrow for balloon launch. We can't risk any ice forming on the envelope
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Tongjess captain says Wx has been improving, but he doubts it will clear in time for next day cycle. is continuing to monitor conditions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Tongjess reports Wx worsened overnight and is still not favorable for a balloon launch. Will remain on station to try throughout today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
balloon launch scrubbed for today, no chance of recovery before sunset now & seas too rough to recover at night. Will try again tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the crew aboard MSV Tongjess are still hoping for better weather conditions, 4th sunrise is here & they will return to monitoring the skies
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
word from MSV Tongjess is they are within the zone but weather is not viable for launch. Will hold station & hope for better conditions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Tongjess has sent us notice of anchors aweigh and she is now heading for the survey location bit.ly/USI_Zone_7-BNC 55km southeast
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Tongjess has anchored offshore, Bob will be accompanying the crews on the voyage, Bill says he still prefers to remain on solid ground
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today bit.ly/BobKerman returns to active duty after the grievous injuries he suffered in early Jan. Happy to have him back full-time!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it was a great half-week back at KSC, still plenty to get caught up on via bit.ly/OpsSummary2-27ā¦ - have a great weekend everyone!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we'll be dispatching the MSV Tongjess on Monday with a high-altitude KerBalloon, hoping to launch same day but Wx constraints are tight now
Kerbal Space Agency
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Mortimer has been working like a madman since he recovered from being one of the more seriously ill. Feb bit.ly/FinanceReport_ā¦ now posted
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we will need to await flight trials of the Civvie Production model to see if it performs as well as engineers hope in order to carry cargo
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
initial sim data from C7 shows it could be feasible for a underslung radial mount of KerBalloon casing w/instruments directly attached
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've signed on Rokea Inc for a hi-alt bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ contract, which will be far overland & a good candidate for Civvie deployment
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Simon has reported that the VAB & HAB both had a good day of getting "spooled up" and ready to dive back into work tomorrow full speed ahead
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our backlog of parts shipments has begun to arrive this week, starting today with our new batch of 5 high-atmospheric balloon units
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
happy to have SSTU come back to us for more science balloon data via bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦, low-altitude temperature readings this time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
busy day for everyone to start getting caught up on work that was unable to be done while offsite, which wasn't as much as we feared
Kerbal Space Agency
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KSC as seen from the top of Building B in the support village on a lovely day, great to be back! Final staff/crew arriving this afternoon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today we start moving kerbs back to KSC, starting with any staff living in the support village, while DMO gets back to decontamination ops
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the support village however was finished earlier this wk & we can still start moving staff back on Monday & be rdy for ops to resume 3/1
Kerbal Space Agency
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DMO says they have fallen behind schedule thanks to a major equipment malfunction. Looks like they won't have KSC cleaned up until Feb 28th
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSC decontamination is proceeding on schedule according to the latest report Drew has received from the DMO. All our staff are healthy again
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
over half of our sick employees have made full recoveries so far, and the same is expected for the remainder over these next few days, yay!
Kerbal Space Agency
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sunset from the tunnel access to Umbarg City, along which the remainder if KSC staff will be traveling today. So long for now, KSC!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
everyone is ready to begin heading out tomorrow to our temporary homes in Umbarg, where a quarantine zone has been setup for all KSC staff
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good news to start off the day is that most of our staff that got sick first are finally showing improvement with continued treatment *phew*
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we hope to be back at KSC again by 2/27, in the meantime KSA ops will move to Umbarg. Full report available here: bit.ly/KSCShutdown
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Disease Management Organization reports that KSC needs to be shut down & fully decontaminated. We're not happy, but health is important
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've gathered all the info we can about the health situation here in our weekly ops sitrep. Everyone feel better! bit.ly/OpsSummary2-6-ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
unfortunately while R&D labs have been cleared to operate due to their climate control, the VAB & HAB cannot be sealed & remain closed down
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSC remains closed & under quarantine while the DMO continues w/ its investigation. We will share any news we receive from them immediately
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
several of the DMO agents have fallen ill, some of whom had no prior contact to any KSC employee. They've now gone to full HAZMAT protocols
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSA/C7 operations are mostly suspended today while KSC is shut down to allow screening of all employees on campus for any disease carriers
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we will comply w/ DMO officials request to shut down KSC tmrw so all employees can be screened to see if any carriers exist among unaffected
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
DMO agents are working through the campus, taking random surface swabs and air samples. All employees please cooperate with them as needed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
officials from the Disease Management Organization have arrived - it looks like the situation has become more serious. Meeting w/Drew now
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we now have 1/4 of our staff out sick, including Cheranne, who was already stressing about all the papers she still has left to review
Kerbal Space Agency
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we've ordered more hi-alt balloons but will have to watch out for icing, which took out one last month. Details: bit.ly/KerBalloonPR5
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with a lack of KerBalloon contracts to work on, Bill has been lending his engineering expertise to Simon and his crew working on the Mk3
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob's been released from medical care & will begin full regimen of light rehab work this month with plans to return to active duty in March
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
there's been a rather large uptick in admissions to the MedCenter this past wk. Please follow proper hygiene protocols in public work spaces
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
lots of sneezing going around lately - Simon says he has kerbs taking another look at materials used for the recent facilities repair work
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jan finance report is out. New format puts totals on top & also includes individual sheets for programs & vessels bit.ly/FinanceReport_ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
he will continue to be confined to bed with some light exercise sessions for the next week before being released from full-time medical care
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob has been transferred from the support village med center to his quarters in the astronaut complex, remains under medical observation
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
anyone else think that week just flew by? Get more details or get caught up on what went down with our Ops Summary: bit.ly/OpsSummary1-23ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we think we've determined the cause of the high-alt balloon failure earlier this week - have sent unit off to KerBalloon for confirmation
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have some radiation data transmitted successfully & Val is already swinging back around for home, will continue to pick up rad readings
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
HAB has swapped out the Engineering Test Bay for our new Radiation Sensor Package. Val will take it up in the Civvie tmrw for test readings
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob continues to progress well on his road to recovery, is in good spirits. Val has spent most of her free time keeping him company
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
recovered probes are in the VAB getting broken down today, we will be looking closely at the high-altitude balloon unit that had the issue
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Shadow Space Technologies Unlimited was understanding of yesterday's balloon issue, but has still withheld full payment on our contract
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's been a long day but mostly successful! MSV Tongjess is on its way to KSC after fishing the final probe out of the water with no issues
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
probe made it all the way to 16.5km while recording temperature & meteorological data. Is now descending for recovery, all so far so good
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today's final KerBalloon launch went off without a hitch, already 4min into flight with telemetry link acquired as probe reached 800m ASL
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this was also the 1st time we recovered a payload from the water at night - many lessons were learned & Tongjess was well-equipped for task
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good news, barometer & meteorological data recovered intact. Balloon drifted close to next launch site, Tongjess will be there in just 30min
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
once again will have to await word from Tongjess on recovery but at least chutes pre-deployed properly so hopefully only issue was w/balloon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
uh oh - something went wrong to cause KerBalloon to start falling at only 21.7km - chutes are armed though. Will have to examine back in VAB
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
another good launch from out in the Kerblantic! KerBalloon is at 3.2km ASL and once again all readings looking nominal as it ascends to 25km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no word from Tongjess, should be on station by now. Will have to assume all is on sched & await TLM signal ~10min after launch @ 20:30 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mortimer is reticent to free up funds for new UTVs - wants to first try an air deployment from Civvie. Jeb & Val are all for it. Drew agrees
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the two UTVs caught in the landslide have both been scrapped, leaving us with 3 - just enough for medium-range overland KerBalloon missions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have confirmation - Tongjess has recovered the probe intact, is getting underway once again to head to Zone 5-0D for 2nd hi-alt deploy
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
chute pre-deployment was noted in vertical speed change, although TLM signal was lost before full deployment. Will await word from Tongjess
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
temperature and aeronomical data have been gathered up to 24.9km, balloon has ruptured and we have now entered payload recovery phase
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
telemetry data link established, probe is currently 6.5km ASL climbing at 5m/s as normal, Flight has confirmed chutes are armed. All nominal
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
comms relay confirm high-altitude KerBalloon has been launched at Jaalla's Trough, launch control is awaiting AOS for data telemetry feed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
over-horizon comms relayed from Umbarg are dropping in & out but we confirm that Tongjess is on station to deploy a hi-alt balloon in 22min
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Tongjess has left port at Umbarg for Jaalla's Trough, looking to be on station by 2nd sunrise. Calmer seas have been reported
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tongjess will head back out tomorrow if reports improve. Merchant fleet vessels are huge behemoths able to withstand rougher waters
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have to scrub KerBalloon ops today, Tongjess was forced to put into port at Umbarg, merchant vessels report storm to south not abating
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tongjess has reached Sector NM-1P9 and reports heavy seas, will continue south to Jaalla's Trough (bit.ly/KBSitesNautical)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Specialist Bill isn't too fond of extended sea voyages and has opted to sit out this mission. Will help monitor things from launch control
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
chance of choppy seas to the south via reports from other ships, but MSV Tongjess is loaded up & heading out for bit.ly/KBSitesNautical
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Simon reports that all 3 KerBalloon probes (2 high, 1 low) are ready for deployment tomorrow from the MSV Tongjess - bit.ly/KBSitesNautical
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill is busy in the VAB helping get three KerBalloons ready for flight tomorrow & Val is in launch ctrl so no takeoff/landing photos
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
weather is looking good w/mostly clear skies expected to stay that way w/light & variable winds. Jeb will take the Civvie up at 2nd sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the good news is that all his injuries have the potential to heal fully without the need for an extensive rehab period once he's out
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob has been transferred out of the ICU but still has at least 2 weeks of recovery before doctors will consider his release from their care
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
take a closer look at everything that has transpired this past wk & some of prev wk. Have a great weekend everyone! bit.ly/OpsSummary1-16ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
photos from the cameras on the first high-alt balloon flight have been reviewed and selected, here are the ones that came out best - imgur.com/a/7Ws1w
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with today's succesful launch & recovery our next high-alt KerBalloon flights will be for contracts signed with SSTU & CTC next week on 1/24
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon probe data analysis confirms new bit.ly/KSARecords - altitude 24.990km & speed 335.298m/s (freefall descent) - almost as fast as the Mk2.1!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill says they've recovered the payload intact š Scientists are eager for the probe to arrive back at KSC later today. A great 1st flight!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after nearly 2min of free fall chutes were deployed at 1km & recovery crews report chute sighting w/controlled descent 23.5km west of KSC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
telemetry monitor reports negative vertical speed, which means air pressure has fallen below 1kPa & balloon envelope integrity has failed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have passed 18km and reached the upper atmosphere! Aeronomy sensor should be switching on to collect data the rest of the way to 25km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've just passed 16.531km and from this point on each meter is a new record for altitude over Kerbin. Ascent so far going just as planned
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill & recovery crews are heading out in two rovers to be under the payload when it finally comes back down somewhere 20-30km west of KSC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
balloon ascent remains nominal, now past 10km ASL and 5km downrange due West - wind is calm but remember that ground is traveling eastward
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we had a good launch of the probe, seen here shortly after leaving the ground and rising up past the VAB at ~5m/s. ETA to 25km is 1h23m
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
L-5 mins to inflation of the KerBalloon high-altitude unit and all is in readiness over at the launch site, launch ctrl & tracking station
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill is assisting the launch crews, still short a kerb, in getting the KerBalloon probe setup outside the VAB for launch in 23 minutes
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
great to hear from the medical center that Bob could be transferred out of the ICU sometime this weekend, internal injuries healing well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our first high-altitude KerBalloon is rdy for its maiden voyage to the upper atmosphere today @ 18:21 UTC - details: bit.ly/KerBalloonPR3
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
memorial service was held earlier for KerBalloon launch crew member Thomeny Kerman. He will be sent home to family in Sheltered Rock. RIPš š š
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob remains in stable condition as doctors continue to monitor his internal injuries, which still have them slightly concerned
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
salvage crews are returning with what remains of both rovers. They'll be picked apart starting tomorrow to see what's still usable for parts
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Aerojet Kerbodyne have been very understanding and allowed us to hand the temperature data contract over to the Genesis Program to carry out
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've dispatched a recovery crew & salvage airship to the rover crash site to see about getting both rovers back to KSC. 3 remain in service
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob is resting comfortably in the ICU. All the astronauts paid him a short visit just now and say he is thankful for all the well-wishes
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we'd like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Luftkor Charters, whose airship diverted to rescue our crew. They have refused payment
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've finished debriefing Bill & 3 surviving launch crew members to learn what happened. Full report now available bit.ly/KerBalloonPR4
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the remaining 2 crew members from the other rover have been treated for minor injuries & released from the medical center for us to debrief
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob has been downgraded to stable condition after surgery closed his gaping side wound, will remain in ICU here at KSC for monitoring
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill & his passenger have returned in the one remaining rover, which carried the payload. Parachute & KerBalloon unit lost in landslide
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've received the airship at the Support Village & while Bob is still listed in serious condition our other injured launch crew member has died š
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
situation sounds very fortunate - rovers were carried & smashed by rocks but not buried & are accessible to kerbs working to get crew out
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
airship is evacuating them to KSC, where they will be stabilized in the Support Village MedCenter & shipped on to Umbarg for intensive care
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we now know that one rover was totaled, another severly damaged. All 4 crew injured, 1 in critical condition & Bob is in serious condition
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
word is a slope gave way as they were traversing the top of a ridge & at least one rover was caught and carried in the resulting landslide
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
an airship is being redirected along its route from Kravass to Umbarg for a medical emergency extraction - our KerBalloon rover crews are in trouble
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
balloon crews are heading out in 3 rovers to traverse 50km over land to the launch location, estimate arrival in just over 1 hour
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
however Bob, Bill & crews are gearing up to rover out for a low-alt balloon launch later today over at bit.ly/Site_ZT-8 37km from KSC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
winds today are not favorable for a high-altitude balloon launch so we will try again later this week - we want it recovered over land
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VAB science team spent the day checking over the new radiation sensors from Bluedog Design Bureau for payload integration later this month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
also under construction in the VAB are KerBalloon probes for launch this week & next, both the low-altitude & high-altitude variants
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSA is back up and operational - work done over the past half week will be assessed throughout this one to see if everything got patched up
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
looking forward to ops resuming tomorrow! Weather has been perfect this whole time, because of course it has. Hopefully stays so this week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSA operations are now suspended through 1/15, will return 1/16 - however we will not be offline, will continue to respond & report events
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mortimer & Drew have signed 2 new contracts that will put to use both our high- & low-altitude balloons this month - bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
meanwhile over in the VAB they have their hands full with organizing the integration of KerBalloon probes & the new Progeny Mk3 booster/base
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Looong day for the VAB/HAB crews but everything got pulled and sorted from the warehouse to the facilities, ready to begin work tomorrow!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
excited to announce the 0.625m radial decoupler design contract has been awarded to Modular Rocket Systems. They await our order invoice
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our supply airship arrived and has been moored outside the Support Village warehouse. Will be unloading rest of the day. New parts, yay!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
there won't be any in-flight photos this time, both cameras were unmounted to be integrated for hi-alt balloon test launch later this month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
nice weather, high cloud ceiling & little to no wind. Cpt Jeb will take the Civvie out after 2nd sunrise for a flight to satisfy 2 contracts
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
contractor says this is the earliest they can get the work done. Wish it could have been over Dec break but that's a holiday for *everyone*
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSA ops will be suspended from 1/11-1/16 while various work on our facilities is undertaken to repair some more building issues we've found
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bad news from Kravass where a storm is sweeping thru, all airships grounded, no parts delivery today. Looks to be heading towards us next
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Specialists Bill & Bob have been seeking more work so they've been attached to the KerBalloon program to assist w/science & engineering
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
C7 engineers are currently stuffing all 21 spare batteries from unused KerBalloon missions into the tail of the Civvie for data xmit power
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Scientist Cheranne has reminded us that a separate delivery coming in two weeks will bring to us our new radiation sensors from BDB!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VAB & HAB gearing up for a big parts delivery later this wk that will let them start on Progeny Mk3, KerBallon & Civvie production projects
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
everyone has been spending all day getting back up to speed from where they left off at the end of Dec, rdy to hit ground running tomorrow!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're back! KSA gradually returning to full operations this week. We expect this to be an exciting calendar year & a full one at that!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
whoops. Mortimer says he uploaded an older accounts file by accident. Revised: bit.ly/FinanceReport_ā¦ no Dec profit but still a yearly one!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
that's it! We're out! Everyone enjoy the holiday, see you next year! Before you go though, here's a 2017 preview: bit.ly/OpsSummary12-1ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
books closed for the year, we just scraped by in Dec & posted a profit overall for 2016. Mortimer is still pleased! bit.ly/FinanceReport_ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VAB reports the Z-60 batteries have undergone their full test regimen and are cleared for use on rocket/balloon probes starting next year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our final day of operations in 2016 has finally arrived & altho no launches or flights everyone still busy as ever getting ready for holiday
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ops Dir @DKerman_KSA sent out a memo wishing everyone a great day because today is our 100th day of operations since the KSA began. kerzzah!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have word of successful recovery of our last KerBalloon unit of 2016! Great job everyone. RealChute will be happy too for their temp data
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good launch for our KerBalloon team. Airship fighting updrafts to hold station & relay signal over the mountains to tracking station
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no joy for favorable flight weather again, Civvie remains grounded today. KerBalloon team reports on-site for launch tho, in lee of mountain
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Cheranne says the radiation instrument from Bluedog Design Bureau is in its final stages of testing, looking for delivery next month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
winds dying down with sunset. Civvie can't fly at night yet but airships can & one is picking up KerBalloon team to head out for launch site
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all of us here are sooo ready for this weekend. Busy week! Everyone have a relaxing weekend! Catch up on everything: bit.ly/OpsSummary12-1ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
airship chartered to take crews out to launch our KerBalloon probe today has been waylaid by mechanical issues. Launch pushed to next wk
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
happy to have all of our crew back from the wilderness. Here's a launch photo from earlier today, looks like they just made it before sunset
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have contact from a high peak with the crew from today's KerBalloon launch, they have recovered the payload and are making their way back
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this is our final contract because we'll be out of KerBalloon units. Next month we'll get a shipment including a new high-altitude balloon!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Drew & Mortimer report we've signed our final KerBalloon contract for 2016! bit.ly/JorseysPassage will get a temp survey for RealChute
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
FD Lanalye reports tracking station has the KerBalloon probe signal at 4.4km - had a lot of terrain to overcome, not to mention horizon!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
airship enroute from Sheltered Rock to Umbarg passes along the msg that launch crews have reached the survey site & are readying for launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
also 4 rovers are being deployed because one is just carrying extra fuel for everyone. Total travel dist will well exceed 160km rover range
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
note the balloon rover is towards the rear of the column, so any terrain mishaps hopefully take out rovers in front with internal cargo only
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
balloon crews have a ~90km traversal to tackle today, are departing now hoping to launch before 3rd sunset assuming no serious travel issues
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're still reviewing designs for radial decouplers suited to a <1m stack. Submissions so far are from OMB Demolition, USI, AIES & MRS
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
crews already working the driving route, will be tough but doable. VAB prepping the KerBalloon unit. We're planning to deploy on Wed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
great start to the week, signing our first contract for this month with Vac-Co for some temperature data out at bit.ly/Zone_8-XDH5
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
looking to get the Genesis Program page started & finished today, but the bit.ly/KerBalloonProgā¦ page is now ready for your perusal!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
What a beautiful day out. It would seem most are working on the weekend (no surprise), or just not taking advantage of the great weather...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Drew is still working hard on getting new contracts signed, but it seems everyone is still chewing on the data we gave them last month...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've tossed out 3 of the remaining 5 batteries from the KerBalloon rover crash. All had small defects that only showed up under EC draw
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
these will be for our high-alt KerBalloon probes & also for the next iteration of the Progeny rockets (not the current Mk2.1s already built)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new batteries have arrived, carrying 60 units of electric charge (20 more than two of our prev batts together) and only weighing 0.002t more
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mortimer has closed the books on November, happy to be back to green across the board thx to KerBalloon contracts - bit.ly/FinanceReport_ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
these new high-altitude units, which will come with the parachute attachments, are expected to be delivered at the beginning of January
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon, with help from our R&D labs, has worked up a new light, highly-flexible material that will allow us to send balloons higher
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Coatl Aerospace happy to hear sucessful retrieval of the KerBalloon payload after it descended under chute 22km SSW from launch location
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
nominal launch reported 26km west at bit.ly/CoatlSite in the Grasslands. KerBalloon will rise & return from 16.5km over the next hour
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Scientist Cheranne bemoans being stuck in the office doing paperwork while researchers & work crews head out for a KerBalloon launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've negotiated our final contract of November, with Coatl Aerospace, who will get temp data from a KerBalloon we will launch on 11/30
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ahhh the weekend here at last. Check out the bit.ly/OpsSummary11-2ā¦ before you head out for fun & relaxation! (that's your weekend, right?)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
recovery crews report they are on the way back after successfully tracking and recovering the balloon probe after second sunset. Nice work!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
successful KerBalloon launch from bit.ly/FTPSite 14km from KSC w/good signal from ground level. Will be 1st night recovery on land
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Simon reports no obvious flaws detected in any of the KerBalloon units, so mystery remains as to why one sank. Will keep investigation open
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
speaking of yesterday, here is a photo of the balloon launched from the deck of the MSV Tongjess just prior to second sunset
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
balloon launch today postponed until tomorrow so all 4 remaining can be checked to see if any clue can be found as to why one sank yesterday
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Wernher & Cheranne agree though that pressure at those depths would have damaged payload instruments beyond recovery. Scrap that contract :/
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
attempts to locate the probe on the ocean floor proved fruitless. Tongjess is only partially equipped for salvage operations
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
finally - MSV Tongjess has cleared horizon & reported in. Unfortunately, it seems the probe sank for some reason after splashdown
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we should hear from the Tongjess later this afternoon on the fate of the balloon probe, which showed good chute deploy via TLM prior to LOS
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we just picked up signal from the KerBalloon as it cleared the horizon at 1.6km, good to know everything went smooth aboard Tongjess again
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
yesterday's balloon flight was a success. We won't be posting a full data dump, just our favorites. Here they are: bit.ly/CoolBalloonPics
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tongjess has departed, will be traveling well over the horizon 54km SE to bit.ly/ExEngSite for deployment roughly an hour from now
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Tongjess is moored offshore, rdy to support us once again for balloon launching. We'll be sending one up later this morn for temp scans
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs are tracking the payload as it descends under chute. We will analyze the various images tomorrow AM & post an album of the best ones
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs have departed to head out for payload recovery. Probe still rising, we timed launch to reach apokee just after sunset (at ground level)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've had good launch - we're hoping wind will spin it around enough to get photos from various angles, not just the E/W it's pointed now
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
they are programmed to snap photos every few minutes during the ascent so we'll have to wait and see what we get after recovery of the probe
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
getting ready to launch outside the VAB. Cameras tilted down 15Ā° - a 2nd one is behind the avionics package on the other side of the truss
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
report from R&D says larger capacity batteries are on the way, however they still haven't quite gotten the hang of recharging them yet
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
very basic cameras, fragile, narrow FOV. Not the kind we would strap to the sides of rockets, so still not able to do that yet unfortunately
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've decided to send up a KerBalloon later today from here at KSC @ 21:30 UTC equipped with cameras for the sole purpose of cool pictures
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the support village warehouse holds supplies for the entire base, and is resupplied every other week with cargo airships from all 4 cities
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good recovery was made of our balloon launch earlier today, although an intermittent tracking signal had teams hunting it down at dusk
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Civvie has been cleared for takeoff next week! That and more in our weekly ops review: bit.ly/OpsSummary11-1ā¦ Happy weekend to all!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
photo sent in from another routine KerBalloon mission to collect pressure data for a contract, which has just launched 17km west of KSC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
would you believe Eve has just now completed an orbit around Kerbol since the start of the KSA? Let's take a moment to look back...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kip Engineering is happy to learn we have recovered the balloon payload and they will be getting their pressure data by end of day tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
some of our camera-shy launch crew caught in the act readying a balloon for launch. VAB off in the distance. Lanalye happy for line of sight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after we were unable to recover the balloon used to loft the Mk1-B booster for testing, KerBalloon has designed chutes for the casing itself
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
scientists will use this opportunity to study the brief effect an eclipse has on temps in various atmosphere layers compared to past data
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we launched a KerBalloon this morning 32km north of KSC & recovered it 46km to the west. Temperature data was gathered during an eclipse
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
scientists have confirmed based on observations that last month's heat wave was localized to our region of Kerbin. Still unsure as to why
Kerbal Space Agency
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Wernher has announced we've awarded a contract to Bluedog Design Bureau, who will be working with us to build our new radiation sensor
Kerbal Space Agency
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closing out this week with several updates, and the full test video of the Mk1-B booster from earlier today as well bit.ly/OpsSummary10-3ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
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successful test! We will have full video and analysis later today w/ops summary. For now, here's a nice BOOMframe from the camera footage
Kerbal Space Agency
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L-10 min: all systems GO! which really isn't a lot, but still. Test will last approx 2 mins, will report back on success/failure after then
Kerbal Space Agency
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fins will help keep the booster stabilized as it falls to ensure that it hits the pad as square on its engine bell as possible
Kerbal Space Agency
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test booster is mounted to the KerBalloon and out on the pad ready for launch in <30 min. Launch control going through final checks now
Kerbal Space Agency
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later today at 19:00 UTC we will drop this from a KerBalloon at a height of ~250m and see if it self-ignites upon impact with the ground
Kerbal Space Agency
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VAB crew spent the last 2 days putting this test booster together. Yes, the fins are on backwards. Yes, that is an explosive device attached
Kerbal Space Agency
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airship arrived on schedule this morning, delivering much needed supplies & also our 10 new KerBalloon units, same size/capability as before
Kerbal Space Agency
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Progeny Mk2 anomaly investigation has developed a theory that they plan to test when we receive our new KerBalloon shipment on Friday
Kerbal Space Agency
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these finance reports cover our R&D/vessel operations budget only, so u won't see how much toilet paper we buy until we have craft w/toilets
Kerbal Space Agency
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October was rough, the Mk2 failure def hurt us. We pledge to come back strong tho! Mortimer has posted our monthly bit.ly/FinanceReport_ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
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our new KerBalloon order will arrive at the end of the week & we are already accepting contract bids for more flights from various agencies
Kerbal Space Agency
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our damaged UTV is in the shop & will be fully repaired. KerBalloon unit however will need to be replaced. Some batteries were recovered too
Kerbal Space Agency
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Head of R&D Wernher Von Kerman & Lead Scientist Cheranne Kerman both agree a radiation sensor is the next payload instrument to be developed
Kerbal Space Agency
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rains happen more often that you may think - we generally don't report that it's raining unless it directly affects our operations somehow
Kerbal Space Agency
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the KSC causeway bridges allow floodwaters to flow past the complex & to the ocean during periods of heavy rain from the western mountains
Kerbal Space Agency
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Weekly Ops Summary is posted, w/ some new info on the Progeny Mk2 launch anomaly & a review of KerBalloon ops + more bit.ly/OpsSummary10-2ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
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rovers are all back from Umbarg. Damaged one will be going into the shop for repairs on Mon, we'll also be looking @ the KerBalloon then too
Kerbal Space Agency
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apparently some large ditch in a shadowed depression caught one of the rovers as it was traversing down a slope & it tumbled end over end
Kerbal Space Agency
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our launch crews have made it back to Umbarg, took them a few hours to fix up the rover to be able to travel after this debacle
Kerbal Space Agency
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everyone is okay but the balloon casing was damaged and has leaked out all its gas. They'll have to return to KSC so we can look at it
Kerbal Space Agency
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troubling news has reached us via relay from passing airships, apparently KerBalloon team have had an accident on their way to launch site
Kerbal Space Agency
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word from Umbarg is our UTVs have set out for their traversal to the Desert launch location, ~100km from the city, furthest distance yet
Kerbal Space Agency
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recovery crew returned to Umbarg victorious, with a fully intact payload. They tracked it very well this time, as this recovery photo shows
Kerbal Space Agency
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we'll hear from the recovery team when they return to Umbarg. Now it's straight into launch drills the rest of the day to prep for tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
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signal lost sooner than expected, but vertical speed readout confirms initial pre-deployment of the recovery chute was successful
Kerbal Space Agency
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positive ascent rate has turned negative as balloon's maximum altitude reached. Payload chute will be commanded to pre-deploy @ 7km in ~1min
Kerbal Space Agency
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controllers taking turns watching the v/s readout for the balloon. Pretty boring, but need to make sure it stays positive until expected alt
Kerbal Space Agency
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tracking station reports they have a signal! Launch control confirms readout of altitude & vertical speed. Balloon already at 5km
Kerbal Space Agency
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Lanalye has gotten in touch w/launch crew via passing airship, they confirm weather hold & will continue to try throughout daylight window
Kerbal Space Agency
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tracking station still reports no signal. However, launch team could have been delayed in launch due to weather. So waiting continues
Kerbal Space Agency
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we are at L-0 time, now to sit and wait for signal. Lanalye did request extra funds for an airship relay but was denied by Mortimer
Kerbal Space Agency
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we expect AOS to occur within 3-5 min of launch time, but this is based on very old regional survey data. Terrain could block signal longer
Kerbal Space Agency
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after an early lunch Flight Director Lanalye and staff are on console in launch control. Tracking station is awaiting signal acquisition
Kerbal Space Agency
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although balloon can't fly to upper atmo, its less-flexible tougher material does make it more capable for launching in inclement weather
Kerbal Space Agency
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word from Umbarg is that launch crews have departed on schedule for the launch site, tho weather continues to be a minor concern
Kerbal Space Agency
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she almost got clouded out again though - rainfall has just started and is expected to continue into tomorrow. May affect balloon launch
Kerbal Space Agency
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Val finally caught Mun occulting Jool earlier. Jool vanished behind Mun at 21:45 UTC, reappearing at 21:57. Tylo & Vall also visible
Kerbal Space Agency
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roll out!! Launch crews are on their way to Umbarg, from which they will depart early tomorrow to reach the Grasslands launch location
Kerbal Space Agency
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all 5 of our UTVs are being readied today to head out in the afternoon carrying 2 KerBalloons & supplies for launches tomorrow and Thursday
Kerbal Space Agency
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here's a photo from yesterday of the Highlands KerBalloon launch at sunrise. No problems getting set up in the dark, that's for sure
Kerbal Space Agency
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another busy week here at KSC, let us recap & expand upon events. As always, everyone have a great weekend bit.ly/OpsSummary10-1ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
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happy to report a successful return of our 3 rovers w/all crew & payload. Scientists are buying them all drinks at the mess hall later
Kerbal Space Agency
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comm contact with the recovery crew, they are well on their way back - payload is intact & secure! Bring that sweet science on home, kerbs!
Kerbal Space Agency
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we saw full chute deployment reflected in vertical speed prior to loss of signal. Now to await word from recovery (was launch) crew
Kerbal Space Agency
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we sent the command to deploy chute at 3.5km to reduce risk of signal loss, vertical speed indicates chute has deployed successfully
Kerbal Space Agency
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balloon nearing max altitude - its rise was stalled for several minutes by a strong downdraft entering a large pressure differential @ ~13km
Kerbal Space Agency
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she's also frustrated that clouds rolled in about an hour ago and blocked her from seeing Mun occult Jool just before sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
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Val used our telemetry data and some math to figure out where to point her telescope but was unable to resolve or track the probe with it
Kerbal Space Agency
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altho we can't see a launch photo until crews return, here's a pre-launch photo from yesterday's Kerblantic ocean launch aboard the Tongjess
Kerbal Space Agency
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TS has AOS and we see good data coming in from the KerBalloon probe! Spattering of clapping & cheers here at launch control, all is nominal
Kerbal Space Agency
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L-5min for balloon launch, assuming all is going as scheduled in the Highlands to the north. AOS should come within 2-3 min after L-0 time
Kerbal Space Agency
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no word now from the launch team for 20min, must be over the horizon or too many tall ridges. Now we must wait & hope for AOS after launch
Kerbal Space Agency
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we have intermittent contact w/launch team as they travel, up & down ridges through the Highlands. They are avg'ing 12m/s, taking it slow
Kerbal Space Agency
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the launch site is 48km away but overland route will be more like 50-55km. Within range for there-back but xtra fuel packed just in case
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're a bit apprehensive of sending them X-country overnight, but the drivers say they are confident the trip is doable if traversed right
Kerbal Space Agency
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launch crews have an adventure ahead of them these next few KerBalloon launches, taking our off-road rovers (we have 5) out into the wild
Kerbal Space Agency
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MSV Tongjess has just cleared horizon & made contact, on its way back to KSC w/intact payload. Great job teams! Let's do it again tomorrow!
Kerbal Space Agency
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all indications prior to loss of signal point to good chute deployment. Tongjess should already be underway to the recovery location
Kerbal Space Agency
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we have pressure burst at 16.5km, will be deploying chute early prior to LOS. Once again a nominal ascent, hurray for still no wind shear
Kerbal Space Agency
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tracking station reports acquisition of signal from the balloon probe. Sigh of relief in launch control that all went well aboard Tongjess
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
tense atmosphere in launch control, waiting to acquire signal from balloon shortly after launch in 10min. Should clear horizon in ~1min
Kerbal Space Agency
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Tongjess is underway, will sail just over the horizon so comms will be difficult. Launch crew is onboard to handle initial deployment
Kerbal Space Agency
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both sensors intact, show they are chock full of stored data - scientists are already downloading & analyzing things in the labs with glee
Kerbal Space Agency
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we've successfully recovered & returned the first probe. The second is on its way to the MSV Tongjess so it can be on station by nightfall
Kerbal Space Agency
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chute deployment did happen according to vertical speed change that was transmitted before signal loss. Recovery crews are already enroute
Kerbal Space Agency
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probe has no onboard computer so no immediate knowledge of chute deploy. Cmd is sent 5 times over a span of 10s to ensure it is received
Kerbal Space Agency
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it may have taken almost an hour to go up, but already the command has been sent to deploy chute at around 1km, will open fully at 500m
Kerbal Space Agency
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we have negative vertical speed, which means the balloon has burst @ maximum altitude. Hopefully both instruments are still in working order
Kerbal Space Agency
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telemetry data as usual only includes probe altitude and vertical speed - payload instruments record data only, do not transmit anything
Kerbal Space Agency
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launch was good, steady ascent at 5m/s. Launch crew photo shows the balloon rising up as the sun works its way down the face of the VAB
Kerbal Space Agency
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L-5min: we have greens across the board, all stations are GO. Probe will come off ground power at L-2min. Inflation takes <1min
Kerbal Space Agency
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L-20min: all is prepped and rdy for launch. Waiting for more sunlight to see how the weather looks, but winds feel light & from the east
Kerbal Space Agency
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105kg balloon & its payload have been hauled out in front of the VAB, launch crew making sure all is in order while Lanalye & team preflight
Kerbal Space Agency
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crews will be getting ready over this night cycle to launch today's first KerBalloon probe at third sunrise. Inflation set for 16:20 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
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2 KerBalloon probes are assembled and ready for flight tomorrow from the KSC (16:20 UTC) and the foredeck of the MSV Tongjess (22:20 UTC)
Kerbal Space Agency
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Flight Director Lanalye has the afternoon booked solid with drills for her team of controllers to get rdy for the KerBalloon & Mk2 launches
Kerbal Space Agency
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also finishing assembly today are two KerBalloon payloads for launch tmrw. Pretty much same design as our test flight, here's a closer look
Kerbal Space Agency
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astronauts have returned. Everyone is wet but no one drowned. Tongjess will remain anchored offshore for KerBalloon launch/recovery this wk
Kerbal Space Agency
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astronauts are off on an excursion aboard the MSV Tongjess to train in various water survival techniques, like using pants for flotation
Kerbal Space Agency
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balloons have been trucked over from the support village warehouse and now reside in the VAB for assembly to begin later today
Kerbal Space Agency
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Lead Scientist Cheranne is especially looking forward to getting out of the office to oversee the KerBalloon launches over the next few days
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
still unloading the cargo ship that came in earlier today (photo from earlier too). Lots of supplies, and our new KerBalloon parts!
Kerbal Space Agency
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in general most employees like to take advantage of the greater availability of various KSC facilities to work on personal projects
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we don't stop kerbs from coming in to work on weekends. Many live here, so tough to step away sometimes. But we also don't always mandate it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
catch up on new developments this past week in our Weekly Ops Summary - bit.ly/OpsSummary10-1ā¦. have a great weekend everyone!
Kerbal Space Agency
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we've got a delivery date for our new KerBalloons - five will be arriving next Tuesday & we hope to loft payloads later in the week
Kerbal Space Agency
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(that last tweet is to the minute that Moho completed its 1st orbit) Later today we will also reach inferior conjunction with Moho
Kerbal Space Agency
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it's time for a little perspective - here's a look at major milestones that have occurred in just a single Kerbol year on Moho
Kerbal Space Agency
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other R&D projects are currently focusing on various science instruments we can use for payloads. Also larger capacity batteries
Kerbal Space Agency
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Mortimer is pleased with our bit.ly/KSA_FinanceRepā¦ for the month of Sept. Profit! We hope to continue this trend of course
Kerbal Space Agency
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Val & Jeb working to get the HAB's fixed-wing program up & running, Bill & Bob helping to design new experiments to collect data on missions
Kerbal Space Agency
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busy day to really kick off a busy wk for our crew as they continue to work with R&D & engineering on several projects related to their rank
Kerbal Space Agency
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temps are back in their normal range for this time of day - *phew* that was a scorcher. Meteorologists still digging thru data from weekend
Kerbal Space Agency
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temps seemed to stabilize back towards normal over the last solar cycle. We'll see what sunrise brings in a few hours. Fingers crossed!
Kerbal Space Agency
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temps back on the rise - break time. Our power lines can't handle the amperage needed to keep all systems cool under these conditions
Kerbal Space Agency
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today looks to be a slogfest. The earlier day cycle remained oppressively hot. Now w/ sun down we can get a few hrs work in - still hot
Kerbal Space Agency
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hopefully the heat breaks tomorrow, or we won't have enough power to run full ops at KSC during the daylight hours. That would be annoying!
Kerbal Space Agency
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good thing this heat wave is striking over the weekend - most of KSC shut down so power aplenty to direct to keeping things cool until Mon
Kerbal Space Agency
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shutting down non-essential systems across the campus to reduce power use so A/C systems can be cranked. Weird, unexpected weather this is
Kerbal Space Agency
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our first full week of operations was very packed, here are the highlights - bit.ly/OpsSummary9-19ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we spoke about regular weather before but it seems to be staying hotter throughout the night and into the day. A/C units are being taxed
Kerbal Space Agency
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included in last link is confirmation of altitude record payload reached. Keep track of such things over at bit.ly/KSARecords
Kerbal Space Agency
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happy to formally declare our new KerBalloon order. More details on first test flight as well included in bit.ly/KerBalloonPR2
Kerbal Space Agency
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science data from the KerBalloon probe has been fully analyzed and both instruments performed as designed. Will be rocket payloads someday
Kerbal Space Agency
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flight path of the KerBalloon probe. Hit some diff wind layers. Last straight line is from body lift during descent
Kerbal Space Agency
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Cheranne & teams were studying 48 mits of KerBalloon data today, we expect a report tomorrow. Delayed ops start to make up for late day 2day
Kerbal Space Agency
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KerBalloon test payload is now in the R&D labs. Expecting a full report on Friday. Photo from the recovery location
Kerbal Space Agency
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recovery crews report they have reached the payload, 45km SSW from KSC. It's intact! Returning now from bit.ly/KBLandingSite
Kerbal Space Agency
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we won't know more until the payload is returned with its onboard data (hopefully) fully intact later this afternoon, but all signs nominal
Kerbal Space Agency
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recovery team has already been dispatched to hunt down the payload, which will ping its location for another 14m, long enough to triangulate
Kerbal Space Agency
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the journey down was unsurprisingly quicker - controllers just now popped the chute at 1.5km, will expand fully at 500m, landing at ~4m/s
Kerbal Space Agency
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POP! Vertical speed has gone negative. Low external press has caused envelope to expand past flexible limits. Payload plummeting back down
Kerbal Space Agency
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15km & the meteorological experiment has been commanded to execute. Balloon is now > 3x the size it was on liftoff due to lower atmo press
Kerbal Space Agency
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payload has reached 10km and we've sent the cmd to run its aeronomy sensor package. EC nearing 50%, plenty left - it will come down quick!
Kerbal Space Agency
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payload is at 5km - we will run experiments at 10km & 15km. Here it is just after launch from our crew atop the VAB
Kerbal Space Agency
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good launch! Payload is aloft & rising steadily at 5m/s. It will take about an hour for it to reach ~16.5km and land back on the ground
Kerbal Space Agency
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ballast lid has blown off, compressed gas now being released into the envelope, should take about a minute to reach lift off expansion
Kerbal Space Agency
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we have a Go from weather, a Go from the ground crew. Probe is off local power and flight team says they are Go as well. Inflation in 2 min!
Kerbal Space Agency
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Flight Director Lanalye is using this "soft launch" as a test for her team & procedures prior to the "hard launch" of Progeny Mk1-A tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
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astronauts are taking their morning cardio workout up the VAB interior scaffolding to the roof so they can watch the launch in 15 min
Kerbal Space Agency
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2nd sunrise on its way as the KerBalloon probe sits out on the lawn in front of the VAB, rdy for the cmd to inflate
Kerbal Space Agency
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signals from the KerBalloon probe today will be received directly by launch control, as tracking station is still undergoing final checkouts
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
work crews are getting rdy to setup the probe outside the VAB - no sense lugging it all the way to the rocket launch site. It weighs 135kg
Kerbal Space Agency
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excellent weather today, jet stream well to the north, wind currently out of the east & light enough for launching our first balloon probe
Kerbal Space Agency
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VAB workers had to put in a little OT but are on sched. Balloon will launch early tomorrow, Progeny Mk1-As still looking good for Thurs
Kerbal Space Agency
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that photo was taken earlier today, probe is already assembled and undergoing integration testing. Progeny Mk1-A assembly going well also
Kerbal Space Agency
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everything except the batteries can be re-used if recovered intact. The batteries we'll have to order more of now. They are not rechargeable
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon probe will use several existing parts from the Progeny Mk1 rockets - hopefully we can re-use them after!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Drew & Mortimer are busy reviewing several new contracts that have come in from various agencies looking to help us advance space & air tech
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VAB super busy today getting the 2nd Mk1-A fully assembled & rdy for testing while also getting started with working on the KerBalloon probe
Kerbal Space Agency
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Wernher & Cheranne have 2 payload instruments to test, don't want to wait for Progeny Mk2. More details here: bit.ly/KerBalloonPR
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's looking like our first launch from KSC won't be a rocket. To test Progenitor payload instruments we've partnered up with KerBalloons
Kerbal Space Agency
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final integration testing continues today for the Mk1-A for Simon & crew while Wernher & Cheranne inspect a new shipment from KerBalloons
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
meteorology isn't something kerbalkind has cared much about until recently, so a lot of our science studies will also look into weather
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
when the jet stream dips low the mountains to the west do uplift moisture and cause bad storms to come through every now and again
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
being on the equator of a body in a perfectly circular orbit means weather is pretty constant. We have temps between 70-90Ā°F all year long
