The journey to put the first kerbal into space and then continue to established a kerbed presence above our atmosphere and out into the cosmos is chronicled here. 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
we believe the term "kerbonaut" is too limiting a label for our space explorers. To the stars, not the star, we say
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronauts are headed back to the western mtns via airship, will be dropped off with minimal supplies & execute a 2-day survival scenario
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've no direct comms to the astronauts during their survival training exercise but they do have an emergency beacon that can alert airships
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're happy to welcome back our astronauts safely from their excursion. Will be debriefed tomorrow by Drew on how the training went
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
slight update to that last tweet - seems Bob rolled his ankle pretty bad working down a slope, but w/light duty is expected to recover fully
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
crew debrief on training exercise over the weekend was good, further building up our training program for new kadets at some point
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
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
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronauts have returned. Everyone is wet but no one drowned. Tongjess will remain anchored offshore for KerBalloon launch/recovery this wk
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronauts are a bit grumpy over being forced to skip lunch in order to undergo medical evaluations later today. No one likes needles either
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
crowds starting to gather on various rooftops again, no big Jeb-run event this time tho, astronauts are off on a 3-day wilderness excursion
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all non-essential staff are being told to evacuate KSC, possibility that the tunnel access to Umbarg could become flooded later in the day
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have a ping from the astronaut's emergency beacon, however winds are too strong out over the mtns for rescue airships at this time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
beacon not necessarily indicates a "HELP US NOW GUNNA DIE" situation but simply a call for extraction due to worsening conditions. Hopefully
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronauts' emergency beacon has cut out... way more battery life available for it than that. Hopefully it was just switched off...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we were receiving intermittent pings by the emergency beacon off & on for the past few minutes. Then they stopped. Storm interference?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Simon happened to be in the tracking station at the time and realized the signal was an old form of communication code. Genius! Replaying...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we now know our astronauts are holed up and safe in a mountain cave, will continue the exercise. Really getting some survival experience!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we had to charter an airship to go get our astronauts as rovers sent to retrieve them encountered impassible terrain due to mudslides
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're happy to have our astronauts home safe & sound - they're enthralling staff in the mess hall with tales of their mtn storm adventures
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lanalye has gone and made the beacon code official protocol should the astronauts need to communicate during their survival excursions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
equipping them with full radio equipment for contacting KSC would be too much extra stuff to port around when they are focusing on survival
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronauts just hopped aboard an airship for more training while ops are down these next few days. Headed to the Badlands. Extreme! Be safe!
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
astronauts are back from Badlands excursion. Bob suffered a pretty nasty insect bite & Jeb got dehydrated. Val & Bill took care of them
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
astronauts have been without a wilderness survival excursion for some weeks now, are hiking out to the Western Mountains for the entire wknd
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronauts have checked in using beep code via their emergency transmitter, made it 32 of the ~50km & will complete the journey tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
beep code transmission informs us the astronauts are hiking among the mountains now. Will camp over night and then start back tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
update from the astronauts - seems they've had a wet time of things since Sat but say their shelters & gear are keeping them dry as designed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronauts have broken camp out in the Grasslands & will be making their way back the rest of today, hope to arrive before 4th sunset
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronauts have made it back, weather is still favorable so Jeb is heading straight to the ready room while HAB tows out Civvie Prototype
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill & Bob are planning another Badlands wilderness training exercise for when Jeb & Val are done training new flight instructors in June
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
both Jeb & Val are now back at KSC - Bob & Bill finalizing the 3-day Badlands survival excursion they've been working on the past month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all 4 astronauts have set out via airship for a 1.5 day journey to the Badlands, where they will spend 3 days surviving w/minimal supplies
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
where are the Badlands? They exist in several areas of the main landmass, are mostly low & hot places deprived of moisture by nearby mtns
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronauts should be on their own by now. Airship that brought them is nearby w/ extra supplies in case of emergency. No news = good news
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with no word yet from astronauts we can assume they've concluded their exercise and are already on their way back to Ockr, then KSC tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronauts are doing well & heading back to KSC from Ockr, except Bob who is staying to catch the last day of the KAS space symposium
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
now that Bob is back, astronauts are gathering with upper-level staff to review Badlands excursion and ID lessons, hazards, issues, etc
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all these exercises & the things we learn from them will eventually be applied to our kerbed orbital flight program in 2019 (maybe late '18)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
@breakingcreech kerbed space flight is currently scheduled for late 2018/early 2019 after we finish refining our orbital rocket program by mid-late 2018
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today's Civvie flight has been scrubbed due to winds & low cloud cover, resched for 10/9 as astronauts are off for an excursion later today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronauts have all headed out to Sheltered Rock, will spend the wknd in the higher elevations northeast of the city for survival exercises
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronauts all made it back to KSC safely, tho all also suffered mild frostbite when an unexpected storm moved in Sat night, a true test!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here is a photo of the high plateaus looking to the northeast, standing at just over 3km ASL as the clouds began to close in yesterday
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
science team studying the data from last Progeny flight report over the top of rocket's arc radiation lvls were recorded up to 10x normal
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
future spaceflt implications of this data are serious. Lead Scientist Cheranne says she'll be sure explanation is in flight analysis report
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all 4 astronauts have shipped out aboard MSV Tongjess this weekend for exercises at sea involving future water recoveries - although Bill hates being out on a boat he does what he has to do
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronauts are back at KSA HQ and will be closing out the year with final medicals tomorrow and Wed. They know to expect training to ramp up next year in prep for kerbed space flight in 2019
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
"what's an astronaut do in their free time? Trick question, they don't have any!" is Bob's favorite joke but certainly true. Think it's late and our crew is enjoying time off? Think again! This sleep cycle docs are conducting baseline sleep studies on them. Oh, the adventure...
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
our crew are certainly not on leave during the KSC operations suspension. They will be using this "time off" from their current mission duties to get a head start on training and planning work for eventual kerbed spaceflight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronauts have begun planning another Badlands expedition for survival training. Lead Scientist Cheranne, short on budget, is begging for instruments to be taken along but alas such equipment is not necessary for survival
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
wishing the astronauts all a safe journey out east to the Badlands over the weekend, where they will be dropped off with minimal supplies to enact a worst-case capsule landing scenario. Capsule is single-occupant so they will all be separate from each other
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/OpSummary2-26-… is posted in case you managed to miss anything this week. There wasn't much but we're making what progress we can. Join the rally in Sheltered Rock over the weekend to march in protest on the shut down!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
crew are all back at KSA HQ in Umbarg safe & sound - no starvation, dehydration, hypothermia, sunburn, venomous insect bites or bodily injuries to report, but they still have a few days before being cleared of disease. Astronaut training! Fun times!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our crew have been busy the past week advising the Ascension engineers as the final design specifications for the 1.25m crew capsule were finalized. The actual design will be finalized later this year after a few months of prototyping & testing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Long-term space habitation isn’t even a discussion topic yet. We know the radiation environment isn’t immediately lethal but the first kerbal in space may not be able to see properly or handle basic tasks in zero-g. A space station would def be cool tho. Hopefully it’s possible! twitter.com/spacepotato101…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are still aiming at early-2019 for kerbed spaceflight, here is the rough schedule for the next year. These activities will all fall under the Ascension program, to which the crew will officially switch over to next month. Two prototype pods will be tested, one will be chosen
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have two companies that made it through to the final selection round for designing our first space capsule. The prototypes will be delivered next month for the astronauts to begin training with them to determine which design is best
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
let's wrap up this week with bit.ly/OpSummary5-28-… - learn more about our new recruits and why female flight instructor Helta turned down our request to join the Agency
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronauts are glad for a weekend break, say their heads are about to explode cramming all the information just from the two capsule manuals, which they are still working through ahead of their delivery later this month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VAB is so busy right now the two capsule prototypes that arrived today have just been parked outside until the Progeny Mk6-II rolls out tomorrow. The astronauts and other Ascension team members can't wait to get hands-on with them to begin assessing the designs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
both capsule prototypes are being readied in the VAB for drop and recovery testing next week. Not only the capsules will be under review but also the new nosecone parachutes that will be housed under the launch escape system, which is still in development
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
kerbalspace.agency/?p=7518 is the direct and proper link to today's Ops Summary
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
adverse weather has kept Ascension crews from performing capsule drop tests today as planned. It's not the rain itself but the fact that vehicles will be more likely to get stuck in mud out in the Grasslands where the exercise will take place
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
weather looking much more favorable today, crews loading the first capsule onto the carry vehicle to head out with sunrise. Capsule will be unkerbed but onboard pressure systems will be running and a dummy weight will be inside
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the convoy has departed KSC, making for the Grasslands just a few km to the west - carry vehicle isn't really an off-roader so they can't go far but want to ensure wherever balloon drifts after release it stays over land for recovery
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
capsule has begun its journey up to 16.5km, Tracking Station will soon pickup its signal and monitor the internal pressure as it rises at ~5m/s. Crews are piling back into vehicles to track and be nearby for recovery when it lands
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we had a good ascent, capsule was released at max altitude and fell to 1.5km AGL before chutes were popped. Telemetry reports a descent rate that matches full deployment of the canopies. Crews are still trying to reach the landing site - ground remains soggy
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
report from recovery crew is the capsule landed just fine, if a bit buried in the mud. They are digging it out and packing everything up to head back to KSC so they can finish preparing the second capsule for its test later today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
same routine, different capsule - crews are heading back out west for another drop and recovery. Astronauts are involved with both exercises even if none of them are actually inside the capsules as they return (yet)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
crews were better positioned for recovery of the 2nd capsule, the triple chute makes it easier to spot from further away and provides some redundancy - if one fails that will be a rough but still survivable landing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
both capsules will be given a thorough check-out in the VAB to ensure that they were not damaged by yesterday's test. Chutes will be repacked and flotation collars are ready to be installed through tomorrow for water recovery exercises later this week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although sunrise is still a ways off, much like this old photo an MSV is parked offshore and crews will be ferrying equipment and the capsules over for water recovery checkouts a few kilometers out into the Kerblantic next day cycle
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Tongjess has the capsules and crew aboard and has departed to sail about 20 kilometers offshore to release and recover the first capsule. Like the previous land-based exercise, capsules will remain unkerbed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
first capsule has begun its ascent up to 16.5km, the thin ring of float collar can be seen underneath. It will reside beneath the heat shield, which would have been dropped after chute deployment to clear the float for touchdown
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
successful splashdown of the first capsule, second capsule is already halfway through its ascent. First capsule will be towed back to the MSV by the tender then winched up to the deck via the wet ramp in the rear
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
another successful splashdown, although the taller capsule had trouble staying upright and will need a larger flotation collar. Crews are hauling it back onbard MSV Tongjess to sail home
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we hope everyone has some cool and exciting plans for this weekend! Before you go, catch up on all the latest stuff that happened this week along with additional supplementary information via bit.ly/OpSummary6-25-…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
capsule prototypes are looking good after their recovery tests, over the next few weeks the astronauts will work through various exercises with them, such as emergency egress on land and water along with normal recovery situations
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronauts spent a good deal of time today clambering into and out of both pods under various conditions - some cases were flagged as potentially life-threatening, twice two of them "died". This is why we test & train hard!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronaut crew spent today getting ready to begin wet capsule testing over the next week - starting in the calmer bay waters north of KSC. These operations will be planned & executed carefully as the risk of drowning is ever present
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket carry/release standing down until next day cycle. Weather has also so far prevented the astronaut crew from performing wet capsule exercises thanks to excessive waves heights, even in the bay, due to winds
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
3rd sunrise approaches and weather remains poor for both flight crew and astronaut crew. Don't think they're sitting around twiddling their toes though, everyone still has plenty of indoor work to keep them busy. Still continuing to hope for better weather later today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're calling it - all crews standing down for the weekend. Everyone will be back ready to go on Monday! Catch up on everything that happened this week via bit.ly/OpSummary7-9-18
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronauts are ending the day cycle soaking wet after various attempts at being recovered from both capsule prototypes out at sea. A larger float collar for the taller one has worked well, but the extra weight and packaged size isn't pleasing engineers
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
an airship has been tethered to the KSC Village warehouse berth this week, where it has been fitted with a hook and winch mechanism so tomorrow they can test picking up the capsule prototypes out of the water
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
initial testing earlier today after 2nd sunrise has shown the concept of hooking a capsule via airship for extraction at sea (and no doubt easier on land) is a feasible idea that still has a lot of problems to be worked out
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are suspending all surface operations and pulling back all staff to Umbarg HQ due to temperatures increasing near 100°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
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
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_MissionCtr…
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 102°F!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronauts also remain stood down from capsule testing - though there was the idea to move north to Kravass, which is seeing normal weather patterns, logistically by the time all was said and done, conditions likely would have returned to normal here at KSC anyways
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
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
astronauts just finished their second night time wet capsule exercise today, working to ensure that we can return and recover a vessel under as many conditions as possible, since landing where we want to land might not always be an option
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronauts are gearing up for a final day of wet capsule testing/training. We'll have more information on what they've been up to these past few weeks in our Ops Summary later today once exercises have concluded
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
catch up with what went on this week and learn some additional details in our Ops Summary. Everyone worked tirelessly this week and we hope you enjoy a nice break over the weekend! kerbalspace.agency/?p=7889
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerbal Submarine Agency? There's been talk of looking into deep sea research as an environment, in addition to underground, that could be suitable to train for future space missions. Added bonus would be to explore a region almost as unknown as space itself
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
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
meet the radiation belt! Or maybe it's just the *inner* belt? Report has been published detailing what our Progeny rocket missions have discovered about the so-called hazardous radiation region up in space: kerbalspace.agency/?p=7937
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
TL;DR - we can well-define a "no go" region for future space missions that leaves plenty of room in LKO for kerbed space flight, but there still may be some challenges to advancing further out towards Mun if the radiation discovered at the poles extends far out into space
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the decision was made late last month during the final stages of capsule testing that neither pod prototype was quite good enough, so engineers spent the last few weeks working furiously on combining the best of both to design the final Mk1 capsule
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the capsule will begin manufacturing to be delivered late November for initial trials to start in December. It will be assembled here in Umbarg and parts come from other caverns, including Kravass, so any future power issues could affect the delivery date
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
kerbed space capsule is still on track to be delivered towards the middle of Nov as well and will resume testing ASAP as we would like it to be certified no later than mid-2019. Lots of iffyness but that's the best planning we can do under current circumstances
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Mk1 crew capsule underwent some more late design changes that builders hoped wouldn't affect the schedule too much but turns out their hopes were a bit too optimistic. Still, delivery is now expected by the end of the month rather than this week so not too bad
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
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've taken delivery of the Mk1 Ascension crew capsule, which will be prepared over the next month to be put through a variety of tests starting in January to certify it fit for space flight hopefully later in the year so we can begin sub-orbital kerbed missions
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
there were enough changes made to the new capsule prototype that it took the astronaut crew the better part of the week to get back up to speed on systems and procedures to prepare to begin various tests next week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
basic capsule testing for this month is going well, finishing up crew fit tests today. Astronauts have taken turns ensuring everyone can be seated properly inside, can reach all the controls and can be extracted both under their own power and while disabled
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after fit testing last week the astronauts have all been doing basic flight operation exercises in the pod to give all the electrical and computer systems a good work through. Bugs & issues have been noted. Remember - this is looking straight upwards, back to the floor
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
everyone is psyched to get some kerbals into space this year! That's pretty much a definite after capsule is certified - Ascension Mk1 is what we would use and it looks like a solid lifter. Orbit? Well, we have a whole year but we'll have to see how the Viklun performs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our crew had the whole day to come back but all of them were here early to begin getting organized for their return to active duty. Astronauts have nailed down their training schedule while the Flight Officers have inspected & cleared both aircraft ready for service
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
as eager as the astronauts are to train in the capsule for actual recovery events, first up will be Greggery - a test weight fitted w/ sensors to sit in the capsule as it's dropped for recovery testing later this month. Apparently the name is some kind of joke but we don't get it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today we got a stripped-down version of the Mk1 command pod that will be integrated into a simulator. All 4 astronauts are lending a hand getting it built while the actual pod prepares for drop testing next week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
oh hey! We're still getting back into the habit of having to write up our weekly operations reports. Even if you don't think you missed anything this week, we also tend to elaborate on various things: kerbalspace.agency/?p=8305
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Hoodall arrived yesterday to support today's launch, but since it has been delayed Hoodall will be taking the Ascension capsule out for its first sea trial this day cycle. Similar to tests last year, it will be dropped from 16km and recovered after splashdown
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've had capsule release, it will now undergo a ballistic fall down to just 1.5km before its parachutes deploy to arrest the descent. It won't reach speeds anywhere near what it will on re-entry from space but the lower deployment height will help stress test the chutes
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
chute deployment confirmed! A triple canopy has opened above the capsule, providing redundancy in the event of a chute failure. The capsule can tolerate a landing with just one chute, although the occupant may not escape serious injury even on water
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
recovery teams have reached the capsule after it splashed down and automatically deployed its built-in float collar, which will rest underneath the heat shield that would have by now been jettisoned after the chutes were deployed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
crews will bring the capsule aboard and further exercises will be conducted after the Progeny launch with the astronauts taking turns being loaded into the capsule on the deck then extricated while afloat under various simulated conditions, such as injuries, deflation, etc
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the NRAP test weight has arrived to be integrated, which will complete the vertical stacking of the rocket. It has been designed to mimic the mass & size of the Mk1 capsule, and will test two important new technologies - a heat shield & reaction control system (RCS)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronauts will be conducting their final day of sea exercises with the Mk1 capsule today. We'll have more details in our Ops Report later. Next week the capsule will undergo similar exercises over land
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
one launch week down, two more to go! We have more details on what went down this past week over at kerbalspace.agency/?p=8347 have a nice weekend, everyone!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mk1 capsule is undergoing more trials this week, over land this time. This includes another landing and recovery test under chute. Here is what the triple canopy looks like. Not only does it provide redundancy, but also makes the capsule easier to spot on descent
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h] Flight Director Lanalye is getting the final mission briefing underway. They've been running drills for the past week once the mission design was locked in earlier this month. Here's what it looks like in the Launch Vehicle Designer
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here's another look at the mission and its goals. Three main objectives for this flight are:
◾ gathering ascent data to compare to LVD predictions
◾ testing the reaction control system & guidance
◾ testing the heat shield ablative surface
◾ gathering ascent data to compare to LVD predictions
◾ testing the reaction control system & guidance
◾ testing the heat shield ablative surface
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launching again on a 45° azimuth will take the rocket over Sheltered Rock & Ockr for downrange signal reception, which will allow it to travel the farthest distance and spend the most time in space while still coming down (hopefully) over smooth terrain or water
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
finally, we know from bit.ly/ProgenyMk6B1-5 that this trajectory can go as high as nearly 500km and still not encounter the radiation belt, making it a good option for future sub-orbital kerbed missions. A radiation instrument is onboard though just to make sure
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] Final readiness polls complete: Wx: GO; Range: GO; Flight: GO; Tracking Station: GO; Downrange Tracking: GO; Ops Director: Launch permission granted! 🚀GO ASCENSION🚀 FTS on internal power, service tower booms unlocked to prep for retraction, AFCS ready for terminal count
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
main engine ignition, throttle up and LIFT OFF for the 3rd Ascension Mk1 Block I, aiming to pave the way for sub-orbital kerbed spaceflight! Rocket has cleared the tower & guidance has kicked in, throttling up to full and pitching over towards the horizon, aiming for 70° by 10km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
what a long and busy week! So much to talk about in our weekly ops report - stop by even if you've seen all our tweets as we do like to include additional information here: kerbalspace.agency/?p=8434
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronauts have begun their capsule sim training - or rather, have begun figuring out what's wrong with the capsule simulator training program. This is supposed to be easy?? We think not. Jeb has found the most problems so far. He says it's in his nature to break things
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
2 more K2-X lifter engines have arrived to complete some add'l Ascension Mk1 boosters next month. With 4 remaining in our current inventory the plan right now is to allot 2 for more sub-orbital capsule testing, 1 for a kerbed flight & 1 for 2nd stage vac engine orbital flight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ascension capsule has completed its test regimen and is undergoing final certification review, which will take about 2 weeks as engineers look over the copious amounts of data collected, as well as conduct one last thorough inspection of the capsule itself
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the prominent journal Science Source has published our paper discussing the radiation data from the recent Progeny MK6-II launch. The highlights are the confirmation of the second outer radiation belt and discovering the sunward boundary of the magnetosphere!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
second belt cannot be avoided when leaving Kerbin orbit, but it is not as dense or as wide as the inner belt so can be traversed with minimal shielding as vessels will be traveling through at high velocities
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our brief unexpected foray out into inter-planetary space found much less radiation than predicted, which is great news. How far our magnetotail stretches in the opposite direction is still unknown, but could potentially cross Mun orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
capsule simulator has gotten a lot less buggy and faulty, meaning more training runs for the astronauts to do battle with Flight Director Lanalye, who has been coming up with increasingly more creative ways to kill them. So far she's still winning 248 failures to 129 successes
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob deserves to be embarrassed for his performance so far, but we’ll save him total mortification and keep the numbers private. Unsurprisingly Jeb & Val are duking it out for the top spot. Currently Val has a slight lead
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the results are finally in from last month's Ascension Mk1 flight and there's still a lot of work to be done since much of the data was inconclusive in determining key aspects of the flight profile that we plan to send kerbals along kerbalspace.agency/?p=8614
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this flight analysis was also conducted in part with the Progenitor team, who were working on the finishing touches to the Progeny Mk7 design when Ascension made some requests for technology they'd like to see prototyped. Stay tuned for details next week!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Ascension Mk1 capsule has been flight certified! The current one has undergone too many tests to safely carry an astronaut, but we can still use it for the next Ascension flight as a test vehicle. A new capsule for the first crewed flight is currently under construction
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
before we can announce the date of the next Ascension mission we have to wait for the VAB crews to complete their modifications to the rocket fins for the next vehicle. Lead Engineer Simon reports they hope to wrap things up by the end of the week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronauts took time from their busy schedule to visit a school in Umbarg as part of their educational outreach. One kerbling asked what happens if you peed in your space suit. Bob promised him he would find out. Such bold frontiers to explore!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our initial order of 5 K2-X lifters for the Ascension Mk1 has been satisfied today with the final engine delivery. We will soon have 3 more on the way as well. Additional orders will depend on the success of the upcoming 2nd-stage engine orbital test flight later this year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
if the K2-X falls short of our orbital needs, we will have to wait about a year for a new 1.25m lifter engine to allow some design iteration with the gimbal system on the smaller Progeny Mk7 engine. Still, it can continue to support sub-orbital capsule flights
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
additional Ascension news includes a look at the complete assembly of the Mk1 capsule. Decision has been made for the Launch Escape System to undergo a pad abort test prior to the next Ascension launch, which will push it back closer to the middle of March
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronauts are setting up for another grueling day of simulation runs. The only good news is that FD Lanalye has begun to run out of ideas for new scenarios, allowing the crew to slowly work towards a better success/fail ratio thx to encountering similar problems more often
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
assuming the next Progeny Mk6-I launches on time we will have the Ascension Mk1-I out on the pad two days later for its LES test on 3/7. If that goes well, the capsule LES will be replaced & capsule re-integrated w/rocket over the following week for launch on 3/14
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our week of operations has concluded, be sure to check out our Weekly Ops Report to get all the information on what has transpired: kerbalspace.agency/?p=8769 (BTW new altitude record is 8.683km ASL)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
earlier today before 2nd sunset the latest K2-X engine was undergoing a routine ascent simulation static fire on our test stand. Some fault during testing led the engine to explode, causing irreparable damage to the test stand and rattling the windows of the R&D complex
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all safety protocols were followed & no one was nearby when the incident occurred. Test stand will be rebuilt after a thorough investigation looks over it and the remains of the engine as well as test data to attempt to determine what went wrong
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all previous engines passed static fire testing without issue & Ascension Mk1 capsule test flights are still GO. However, until the investigation concludes no kerbed flights will be conducted. Astronauts are bummed, but everyone understands crew safety is paramount
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
up it goes! The Mk1 capsule begins integration today with the Ascension Mk1 lifter while the next Progeny Mk6 waits in the background for its launch attempt the following week. Note the RCS thrusters, which we neglected to include in the infographic released last month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
there are no nose thrusters hidden under the escape tower, the capsule can pitch/yaw/roll just fine with the thrusters mounted near the base, and while it can only thrust in one direction, it can re-orient itself to push along whatever vector is needed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
additionally of note, the heat shield seen in the last posted image is a mock-up, since it will be dropped shortly after chute deploy during the LES pad abort test. The real one will be attached prior to the actual launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
recap and learn more about the events from this past week via our Ops Summary, including the return of a Desk Note now that @DKerman_KSA is back from his trip to Sheltered Rock kerbalspace.agency/?p=8811
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb boasted he's been simming so hard he could do a mission blind folded. Flight Director Lanalye told him to prove it. It did not go well. Worse - she now has new ideas for impaired vision emergency practice scenarios
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ascension engine clamp has been installed out on the launch pad for tomorrow's rollout and pad abort test. Rocket has been loaded up onto the carry vehicle in the VAB. Test is currently scheduled for 18:30 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
high winds have prevented us from completing rollout of the Ascension Mk1, mainly the process of lifting the rocket vertical. We should have better conditions later today if a nearby storm system stays out to sea as forecast. New test time is 3/15 @ 00:45 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
forecast models are still not very reliable unfortunately and the storm system has moved inland. Pad abort test has been scrubbed for today. We will make another attempt tomorrow with rollout after 2nd sunrise and test scheduled for 19:00 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we were able to complete rollout of the Ascension Mk1 earlier this day cycle and it is now vertical on the pad. Only the top umbilical is attached to supply power to the capsule, which will be switched on to begin preflight after 17:30 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with the sun fully set, the Monolith temple chill down has begun. We considered leaving it alone to see if storms formed as this is a different rocket design but being already behind schedule we want to avoid further delays & any damage to the rocket itself from lightning
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
LES test proceeding as scheduled. Monolith temple chilled - once stable temps confirmed the rocket will be powered on to load test routines and prepare the systems for action. Pad crew is pulling back to 100m and standing by for recovery after the test
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all systems looking good, now just over an hour away from test time we are holding and still making sure no storms are forming. Final test preparations will commence at 18:45 UTC if weather conditions remain stable
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
15min until test! Weather remains stable, final arming and system checks are underway now in launch control under the watchful eye of Flight Director Lanalye. Astronauts are also here to witness what they could possibly have to endure someday (hopefully never though)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
5min until test. LES is armed for abort procedure and flight computer is standing by for the command to initiate. If all goes well the capsule will be rocketed away on an arc that takes it clear of the launch pad, then deploy chutes, drop the heat shield and land
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
test complete! That - did not quite go exactly as planned. FD Lanalye is still having her team do a quick review of video & telemetry data to determine exactly what went wrong but at least we can report the capsule appears to have somewhat survived
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
more information coming in now that pad workers have reached and inspected the capsule. Lead Engineer Simon reports heavy damage to the exterior that likely renders it unfit for future missions. LES tower is thankfully mostly intact so we can study what went wrong with it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here's an enhanced image from the video footage showing all 5 solid rocket motors on the LES firing very late into the abort burn. This is improper behavior indicating a design flaw - top motor only supposed to fire a short duration to tilt capsule away from rocket
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
capsule & LES are being moved back to the VAB while pad crews begin to dismount the Mk1 lifter to roll it back to the VAB - the first time we've taken one down after setting it up. Video of the abort test will be posted later today before our Ops Summary
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here's how the pad abort test went down earlier today. Poor Bob managed to turn even greener watching it. Greggery the test dummy was aboard and only had to suffer through just under 5Gs of force during the tumble. Capsule flew about 70 meters from the pad
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
chutes normally deploy in about 8sec but they are reefed to allow safe deceleration at transonic speeds. This low in atmo & moving slower when allowed to deploy fully without reefing they can arrest descent in just over 2sec - it was barely enough to spare the capsule!
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
LES solid rocket pitch motor atop the tower is confirmed to simply be the same as the push motors, which means the simple fix is to replace the pitch motor on the 2nd LES meant for flight with the proper one and test again, altho whether the capsule can be reused still a question
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Engineer Simon has confirmed the test capsule is no longer structurally fit for flight. New capsule is set to arrive next week, will undergo inspection the following week and then begin integration for flight. Next Ascension Mk1 launch date NET 4/16
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although not capable of flight, the test capsule can still work for another LES pad abort test. It will be re-integrated with the fixed LES tower and mounted to a different Mk1 lifter (we have 3 other ones ready). Re-test will take place next week on 3/27
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
one of Flight Director Lanalye's sim scenarios got a bit *too* realistic in shorting out part of the capsule console and actually damaged some of the instruments, necessitating repairs that will last at least two days
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
break time for the astronauts? Hardly! Bill will be helping to fix it, Bob will be helping to re-write the sim software while Jeb & Val plan a Deuce flight for tomorrow to take care of a contract that's been laying in wait since the C7 Aerospace fallout
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mk1 capsule test article was re-integrated with the dummy heatshield and fixed Launch Escape System tower yesterday. Today it is being re-mounted atop an Ascension Mk1 lifter. All remains on schedule for another pad abort test of the LES tomorrow at 19:30 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we were unable to get the Mk1 rocket/capsule out to the pad this day cycle due to adverse weather conditions. The pad crew is capable of mounting at night and as soon as conditions improve they will begin work to get everything set up for a test later today closer to 3rd sunset
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ascension LES pad abort test is now scheduled for tomorrow, 19:50 UTC. Rocket was moved out to the pad however a mechanical issue arose with the arm that lifts the rocket vertical. After trying to fix it out on the pad the vehicle has now been rolled back to the VAB for repairs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mk1 lifter and capsule have successfully been rolled out and mounted on the launch pad, configured the same as last time with the single umbilical connected to provide power to the capsule for the test, which remains on schedule for later today @ 19:50 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
sun is rising and preparations are underway to begin powering up the capsule and run through pre-test checks. Monolith chilldown was begun earlier and while we still have some time buffered in to account for any serious weather, we don't expect any
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
30 minute to LES pad abort test, rocket is online and all systems are nominal. Team is now holding to ensure weather continues to cooperate. Pad crews are finishing securing the rocket and clearing back to prepare for recovery operations
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
10 minutes to test! Weather remains green, Flight Director Lanalye and her launch team are back to work arming the abort system and finalizing the capsule for its ejection from the stack
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
5 minutes! Unlike our first test, the adjusted LES tower should now angle the capsule up and away a good distance from the rocket as the kick motor at the top of the tower will not fire with the same duration as the 4 push motors at the base. Stand by!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
success! The capsule flew to a height of 384m before coming down under 3 good chutes to land almost 700m from the launch pad. Almost flipped over once but after LES tower jettison aero forces turned it bottom-first along its trajectory for clean chute deploy & heat shield drop
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
recovery crews confirm the capsule is in good shape and work has begun to get everything back to the VAB. Launch control team is busy already reviewing video footage and telemetry data - we'll get a clip up later today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
full video with additional angles will be posted tomorrow but here's a look at the capsule flying up into the air and nearly out of sight into the distance from the launch tower camera. Now that's more like it!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the new Mk1 capsule has arrived on schedule, which means the next Ascension Mk1 launch also remains on schedule, still slated for no earlier than 4/16. We will be able to lock in a launch date next week once the capsule is through preliminary inspections
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
full video of yesterday's LES pad abort test now available. Data review shows everything worked perfectly. The LES will be integrated for the next Ascension launch even tho it will be uncrewed to ensure it doesn't upset the rocket's flight youtube.com/watch?v=zubZ6G…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
next week we will have another LES pad abort test to see if we can still send the capsule off the flight path of the rocket or to the side while on the pad if the kick motor fails. In that scenario, one of the push motors will fire off a split second earlier than the others
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
another week behind us, catch up on all that happened with additional details via our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=8899 have a relaxing weekend, everybody!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
test capsule is being re-integrated today with the dummy heatshield (now rather beat up but still usable) and LES tower to prep for its third pad abort test at the end of the week, currently targeting 20:00 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
K2-X engine explosion investigation remains ongoing and confirmation has just been released that it was definitely the engine that blew up, not the fuel tank so use of the engine for kerbed flight remains restricted until the investigation completes its work
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mk1 capsule is checked out & ready to begin integration which means we now have a date for the next Ascension launch!
🚀 4/18 @ 20:12 UTC 🚀
Learn more about the mission and the rocket via the Ops Tracker: ops.kerbalspace.agency
🚀 4/18 @ 20:12 UTC 🚀
Learn more about the mission and the rocket via the Ops Tracker: ops.kerbalspace.agency
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Engineer Simon has reported the test rocket completed integration in the VAB today and has been laid horizontal on the carry vehicle for rollout tomorrow after 2nd sunrise. Pad abort remains on schedule for 20:00 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
30 minutes to pad abort test. Rocket was rolled out and mounted the previous day cycle, Monolith is chilled and capsule is powered up. FD Lanalye and her team are beginning their system checks while pad crews close out and pull back to prep for recovery operations
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
pad abort test in 5 minutes! A single push motor will light off just 2 milliseconds before the other three to tip the capsule over slightly before it flies up and away. At least, that is the plan. Stand by...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
recovery crews report the capsule has landed without issue around 800m from the launch pad. Flight data shows it reached a height of just over 300m, nearly as high as the last test. Kerzzah! This fine-control over the LES motors is just the beginning of our plans...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
preliminary review of telemetry data and video footage confirm the test went off as planned. You can barely see the difference in motor ignition but it's there. LES tower impacts first (with unspent kick motor making a bit of boom) followed by heat shield after full chute deploy
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
end of the week is here at last! Catch anything you may have missed in our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=8916 we suggest all our rocketry crews get some rest this weekend - launch campaign for the next Ascension mission kicks off in earnest next week!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
last week's LES pad abort test went off perfectly and ends the test series. Ascension team is currently considering the need for an ascent abort test as well, which would finally discard the beat-up test capsule since it can't operate in space anymore anyways
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
final assembly for next week's launch is well underway on the Ascension side of the VAB with the lifter in place for stacking the capsule later this week after it finishes integration. Wondering where the RCS blocks went from last week's capsule test? Wonder no more!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today our astronaut crew achieved an important milestone in their training - they have collectively succeeded more times than failed in the capsule simulator. Congrats - keep working hard, space is only getting closer!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our astronauts officially have a ride into orbit! Assuming everything was modeled properly, the Ascension Mk1 Block II lifter + the Viklun orbital stage can successfully place a capsule into a 40° inclined 100km circular orbit with ~230m/s of spare Δv! Here's a full render
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
one week to our next launch (ops.kerbalspace.agency) and while the rocket gets ready in the VAB work has also been done out on the launch pad to ensure that it is all set to support the launch. Photo taken just a short while ago at 3rd sunset
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
engine startup nominal, chamber pressures good, throttle-up to 1.2TWR successful and we have lift off!! Rocket will clear the tower before going full thrust, saving wear on the pad infrastructure, then enabling guidance control to begin pitching over as it heads downrange
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're not digging any deeper into this week's flight, but if you fear you may have missed anything these past few days you'll find it in our weekly Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=8957 a well-deserved rest to all our rocketry team members this weekend!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
#ICYMI we had our latest rocket launch this week. Here is the Ascension Mk1 Block I lifter carrying the Mk1 capsule for a test ride into space (unkerbed) clearing the tower moments after liftoff. For more on the mission see our Ops Tracker: ops.kerbalspace.agency
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/AscensionProgr… team have decided there's no mission profile that fits the Mk1 Block II so it will be merged with the Viklun Mk1 to create a single vehicle: the Ascension Mk2. So the Mk1 will carry sub-orbital payloads and the Mk2 will be for orbital missions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our astronaut crew are readying for a full day of physical evaluation, both medical and aerobic - it's important we gather regular data on their health and performance for a baseline to compare against after their return from spaceflight (and one day, during spaceflight!)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
suffering minimal damage during re-entry, the Mk1 capsule from the last flight can be reflown. We would likely not refly a capsule for a kerbed mission, but for another uncrewed test the capsule is in good enough condition and will save us some much needed funds
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've been dropping bits of important analysis results from this month's Ascension Mk1 launch here and there but for all the details on what went on during the mission you can now check out the full report: kerbalspace.agency/?p=8976
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
TL;DR - everything remains on track to launch the other 3 Mk1 lifters currently in the VAB - one will fly an ascent abort, another will re-fly this past mission w/proper LES usage & return. If all still looks good, an astronaut will go on the 3rd rocket!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ascension team have finished planning out the use of the remaining 3 Mk1 lifters - ascent abort test will take place right after the Progeny Mk6-I mission on 5/16 @ 21:48 UTC followed by a re-fly of this past mission for more testing on 5/28 @ 16:28 UTC ops.kerbalspace.agency
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
if both missions go well, then the 3rd will send the first astronaut up no earlier than July - we'll need to get the first of the new engine shipment that was put on hold back in Feb, integrate it, test it & we are also still working on the 2nd new Mk1 capsule integration as well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
who will be the first astronaut to go to space? All 4 of our original crew have trained for the privilege and now we want YOU to help us select the one to get the honor! All you need to do is reply to this tweet with 5 numbers between 0 and 100 (they don't all have to be unique)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
deadline for number submissions will be midnight UTC on 5/15. Next Monday we will announce the date on which we will hold the selection process, which we are planning to live stream to ensure everyone can see there was no backroom meddling
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
some good news today at least: K2-X engine has been cleared. Final report is the fuel tank, which was constantly re-used for each test, fatigued & shed some of its interior lining due to poor dampening. This entered the engine causing a cascading failure of the fuel pump system
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
test stand will be rebuilt to better specs by August and the 3 engines already partway assembled are being resumed with an order for 3 more placed today. First new engine should arrive next month to be used on the Mk1 flight we hope will carry a kerbal into space by July
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
[L-4h] final mission brief under way at launch control. Flight will be relatively simple - after rocket ascends into the upper atmosphere the capsule will be detached and flown away using the Launch Escape System. It will then descend ballistically for splashdown
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good engine start, chamber pressure checks out for 1.2 TWR launch power - clamp release and lift off! Rocket will clear the launch tower and throttle up to full power and begin to pitch over downrange
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
clean capsule separation! It is just about to finish coasting up to an apokee of ~35km. Flight computer will command the chute to pop at that point but the chute's own pressure mechanism will hold it in until the capsule falls below 30km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
capsule is out of the water and being delivered back to KSC for post-flight analysis. Mission was a success in gathering the data needed but ultimately we have yet to determine if the LES did indeed operate within tolerances for a future onboard crew member
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
stream is live! In 5 minutes @DKerman_KSA will come on to carry out the crew selection process. This will determine the initial order all 4 astronauts head up into space aboard either a Mk1 or Mk2. Tune in now - youtu.be/g_6LoHyDRuM
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we do not plan to take any questions or respond to comments during the live stream, although we haven't gone as far as to disable the chat if you would like to talk among yourselves
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Congratulations to Specialist Bob Kerman - the first kerbal selected to head up into space!! ✨🎉🎊
The following crew rotation is:
Bill
Val
Jeb
You can review the selection process here: youtube.com/watch?v=g_6LoH…
The following crew rotation is:
Bill
Val
Jeb
You can review the selection process here: youtube.com/watch?v=g_6LoH…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this exempts Bob from being the 1st to orbit Kerbin and there are plenty of 1sts still to come in our exploration of the Kerbol system so the rest of the crew remains just as excited
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
everyone is ready for a relaxing weekend after such a busy week! Be sure you're caught up with everything and learn even more details via our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9127
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
another step successfully taken on the path to kerbed flight - Ascension Mk1 ascent abort test was well-within tolerances for crew survival. Full flight analysis now available: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9148
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h40m] Wx data has been gathered & is being processed while Flight Director Lanalye gives her launch team their final brief. This mission will follow the same major steps as the one last month, with tweaks to the ascent profile for a slightly flatter trajectory
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h55m] rocket systems are online & configured for tanking. Pad crew has a GO to begin onload of 7t liquid propellant. We've cut 20min from our countdown thanks to a huge fuel truck (originally purchased for Dhumla) that can top off the rocket in one go
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the only reason we're using the single truck to shave time off the countdown is so that it's less time the eventual astronaut aboard has to wait for lift off, since they are put into the rocket before it's raised vertical and fueled
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
main engine start was nominal, throttle up to TWR of 1.2 achieved and lift off occurred right on time. Rocket will shortly clear the tower and begin to roll before pitching downrange - this is the first time we are rolling the rocket off the pad in prep for the Mk2, which has a fixed launch orientation
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
through apokee now and capsule has successfully oriented along all vectors. It's slower than before thanks to the LES tower but ascent steering is also not fighting for control this time. Just under half of cold gas capacity has been used up so far
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
coming up on atmospheric interface in about 1 minute, capsule remains properly oriented for re-entry and all systems are nominal. Hoodall is still underway but is already within visual range of the new splashdown location
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we lost signal just before splashdown but have data confirmation relayed via Hoodall the capsule is safely afloat in the water and they are moving in to begin recovery operations. ✨🎉 KERZZAH!! 🎉✨
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
post-launch operations are wrapping up and the capsule plus its heat shield have been pulled from the water to sail back to KSC, they will arrive tomorrow. Expect another 2 weeks or so for mission analysis before we can talk about a possible kerbed flight in July
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ongoing analysis of the last Ascension Mk1 flight still shows re-entry in excess of 16Gs. We either have to fly a lower arc or prove a kerbal can indeed withstand that force without serious effects. We're looking into the latter option, mainly because someone already wants to
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
medical doctor Murstap Kerman has been trying to get his research fully funded for a few years - he's been trying to convince the medical community that extreme G loads over short periods can be withstood but no one has really cared or not until now!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronauts have been running new sims now that they have actual data to work against in the control of the capsule while the LES tower is attached. The added mass makes a big difference in capsule motion and they need to be well trained both with & without it present
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronauts took turns today sealed in the capsule with no power (except life support to their suits) as a stress test. Surprisingly Bill lasted the longest, then in order of decreasing time came Jeb, Val and Bob
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
flight analysis for the last Ascension Mk1 mission has been posted: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9214 - we continue to remain on track to launch a kerbal into space in July. Final major hurdle is the engine test towards the end of this month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
additional big news from the report is that we have agreed to fund Dr. Murstap's deceleration research in conjunction with C7 Aerospace Division to not only benefit space flight but also design safer aircraft in the event of accidents. Two words: ROCKET SLED!!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today was another big step towards kerbed space flight and we are only just a bit off the pace we set ourselves on just over a year ago. It's not surprising though that space flight is more complicated than we expected twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtr…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
things are proceeding apace here at the Kerbal Space Center as we continue to gear up for a return to rocket flight at the end of the month. Learn more about this week's activities in our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9236
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Val got a bad sprain today during the astronaut's regular training run. It would not have prevented her from flying but does raise the question - what happens if an astronaut is injured in mission training or becomes sick? The next crew member in the rotation is their backup
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
final rocket sled and track design has been approved after Lead Engineer Simon worked to integrate the capsule into the sled. Dr. Murstap himself has volunteered to do the runs once the track is built (in July) and tested (in August)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the sled track will be built along the entire 2.2km length of the paved runway, closing it to flight operations. The Deuce & Civvie however can both land and depart from the turf runways if needed (dotted outline) - Also, new chart ASA-002-R2 has the main runway marked paved now
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h40m] weather desk has all the reports they need to put together a more accurate launch forecast while Flight Director Lanalye assembles her team for a final briefing, which as you can see today's flight will closely mimic that of the Ascension Mk1
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
in addition to checking out the steering and guidance of the Mk7 we'll be using this flight to test a trajectory that could give a more comfortable ride to Ascension astronauts
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
FD Lanalye & her team today conducted a successful static fire of the lifter core that will power the next Ascension Mk1 flight set to carry Specialist Bob into space next month. Test data still has yet to be fully analyzed and verified however
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
thanks to a generous donor, we now have our own MSV! It's an old hull, but will serve well as a recovery vessel after some retrofits to the stern to haul capsule aboard. It has been designated the MSV Aldeny & will be training to recover the first kerbed Ascension mission in July
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
results from this week's static fire have confirmed the engine is ready. We now have a date to LAUNCH THE FIRST KERBAL INTO SPACE!! L-0 scheduled for 7/18 @ 19:21 UTC and aboard the rocket will be Specialist Bob. Get hype! 🚀 ops.kerbalspace.agency #KSPloring @KerbalSpaceP
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
hello, week end! We look forward to seeing all the visitors stopping by to check out the latest Ascension rocket on display in the VAB as it completes assembly to carry a kerbal into space. Catch up on this week's happenings via our Ops Summary kerbalspace.agency/?p=9267
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Specialist Bob and his backup Specialist Bill have been working even more closely with Flight Director Lanalye's launch team A in rehearsals leading up to the kerbed mission later this month, while controllers on her launch team B also train for the Mk6 Block II mission
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/d…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we gots all the details on what went down this week in our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9303 We hope everyone has a fun and relaxing weekend. Rocketry teams: rest up!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
L-7 DAYS UNTIL WE LAUNCH A KERBAL INTO SPACE! This is Bob & Bill's final week for training and they have been training hard. Even when they do something right, they do it right again. And again. Danger is inevitable, risk mitigation is key. Prepare for everything & anything
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are bringing in extra security after Monolithic graffiti was found scrawled on the side of the VAB, likely overnight by a religious follower or few who snuck over from the temple to the north. We've been dealing with various protests ever since the kerbed mission was announced
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
at this time there are no direct threats to the astronauts but we have had to cancel a few media events outside of KSC over the past month. It's disappointing to see some kerbs that don't want us to succeed in our quest to explore the Kerbol system and beyond
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
check our Ops Summary for more details on what went down this week, including final mission preparations by Bob and his backup, Bill. Who is ready to witness history next week?? kerbalspace.agency/?p=9332
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today Bob & Bill have both gone into quarantine in the Astronaut Complex, where they will remain away from each other & everyone but medical teams until the mission next week. This is not only to reduce exposure but allow them time to rest from their rigorous training schedule
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
#OTD back in 2017 we were still recovering from the massive outburst unleashed by the Monolith after first reaching space. You can read about it all here: kerbalspace.agency/?p=4567 - the Monolith continues its battle to keep us planetside to this day
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
last week the capsule was stacked & the rocket is now undergoing final close out checks in the VAB. This flight uses a brand-new capsule. The 1st one is being used for the deceleration testing and the 2nd one that's flown to space twice will be used for further unkerbed missions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although they can't run sims while stuck in quarantine, Bob and Bill have plenty of written manuals and procedures to review. Of course, they could also be relaxing and binging all the movies & TV shows they didn't have time to watch while training...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
flight analysis is published for last week's Progeny Mk6-II mission and coupled with data from the dayside launch we have our first rough approximation of the true shape of the belts! Full details: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9336
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
medical staff are doing checks on Bob & Bill every day, enforcing a strict diet of meals they dictate, but allowing them to sleep as they feel they need to. All this sets a baseline to help begin to determine what affects spaceflight has on an astronaut after returning to Kerbin
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
meanwhile Jeb & Val have remained involved in this mission by taking turns in training with launch team A stationed at Capsule Communications. Sticking to the crew rotation, Val will be primary on CapCom with Jeb as backup operator if she needs to be relieved
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ascension capsule ECLSS has been properly supplied on all flights with food, water, nitrogen and oxygen however these resources have never been noted in the Ops Tracker since consumption is not vital - more than enough to last thru mission. Longer missions will have them
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
doctors report both Bob & Bill are in good health and spirits. Both will be equally prepared for tomorrow's launch all the way up to L-0. If we need to swap out the capsule crew for any reason, even after its been buttoned up, Bill will be suited up and ready to go
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all readiness reports have been submitted, reviewed and approved by @DKerman_KSA - which means we are 🚀 GO FOR LAUNCH! 🚀 launch pad has been reconfigured and is ready to receive the rocket AND CREW tomorrow after rollout. Pre-launch ops begin @ 14:11 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
🌅Sunrise/Sunset🌄
@ KSC (UTC-4)
7/18
#2🌅08:35:19 🌄12:22:06
#3🌅14:36:10 !!🚀👨🚀!!
#3🌄18:22:57
#4🌅20:37:01
7/19
#1🌄00:23:48 🌅02:37:52
#2🌄06:24:39
@ KSC (UTC-4)
7/18
#2🌅08:35:19 🌄12:22:06
#3🌅14:36:10 !!🚀👨🚀!!
#3🌄18:22:57
#4🌅20:37:01
7/19
#1🌄00:23:48 🌅02:37:52
#2🌄06:24:39
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
several hours to go until the start of prelaunch ops but Bob & Bill have already awoken to eat their choice meal before beginning the process of getting suited up for flight. Bill says he slept soundly and Bob admits he had trouble getting to sleep but feels okay
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5h10m] pre-launch operations have begun as the carry vehicle leaves the VAB with the Mk1 strapped atop, making its way slowly to the pad 655m away over the next 10 minutes. Meanwhile, crew is completing suit up in the Astronaut Complex. Expect updates at these milestones
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
crew photo outside the rear of the Astronaut Complex as Bob boards the crew shuttle out to the pad. Bill will head back inside to the ready room and stand by in case he is needed. Rocket carry vehicle is nearing the pad and will position itself for the vertical lift
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h50m] Specialist Bob is ready to begin ingress procedures. He will be assisted into the capsule by the pad crew and then strapped down. The hatch will then be sealed in preparation for the mounting of the rocket
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h20m] crew load was without issue. Although the capsule orientation makes it a bit awkward, lots of training helped. Bob is now situated and his suit life support will remain on internal capsule power until the rocket is mounted and service tower umbilical arm is connected
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Commander Val, working CapCom, is actually down at the launch pad right now plugged straight into the capsule so she can keep in touch with Bob during mounting operations and alert the pad crew if anything appears to be going wrong from inside the capsule
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h40m] rocket mounting going well, nearing completion while Flight Director Lanalye assembles her A team in launch control for their final briefing on today's mission, which will send Bob downrange at a slightly shallower angle for a lower apokee and gentler re-entry
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
because the rocket will be spending more time in the atmosphere it will be holding a TWR of 1.65 during ascent, which will give Bob a very comfortable ride on the way up as well. This will reduce friction heating but is also necessary to not speed past the landing zone
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h10m] rocket mounted, launch team briefed, Val back on CapCom, Monolith chilled & weather desk has given an improved forecast of 85% favorable conditions @ launch time. We are GO to begin preflight procedures! Bob says he's doing "A-Okay" - voice quaver likely comm distortion
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
AFCS flight instructions update info can be found here: bit.ly/AFCS_ChangeLog - while Bob will handle a lot of normally automated preflight tasks so he's not sitting around bored, during the actual ascent the flight computer will be in command w/ a few manual emergency controls
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[HOLD] Bob has confirmed he's flipped all the switches & pressed all the buttons needed on his end and the capsule is now initialized, lifter rdy for fueling. Tanker is already hooked up to the service tower but we just got a No GO from the weather desk monitoring a slow pressure drop
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
weather desk has informed FD Lanalye the pressure drop began @ rocket power-up but given no such reaction has occurred after the cooling system was installed they were hoping it would stabilize. No such luck it seems. Clouds are starting to build near the pad, winds increasing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Presider's motorcade was just departing the Support Village and has been halted since crossing the causeway could be dangerous if the winds continue to get stronger. Pressure drop slowly continues so this is likely. Pad crew is entering the launch bunker. Fuel truck detaching
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the night is pitch black now as overcast skies cover Mun and stars. Pressure has stabilized but rain, high winds and some lightning continues. All visitors have been moved indoors to the VAB, HAB or Astronaut Complex. Flight surgeon says Bob is showing an elevated heart rate
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
YOWZA!! We just had multiple strikes on the crew service tower, which is currently not attached to the rocket and is also grounded. Bob is telling Val he wants out *NOW* but conditions are too dangerous for an unnecessary emergency egress. Medical team is evaluating his vitals
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
doctors report Bob may be having a panic attack but he's not in any physical danger and pad crew should remain sheltered. Storm already appears to be weakening. Given that we've seen much worse prior to the Monolith A/C installation, good to know it seems to be helping somewhat
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no lightning now for nearly 10 minutes and winds have continued to weaken. Val was the perfect person to help Bob calm down; he's been further assuaged by FD Lanalye saying the count will not be continued and the pad crew will be lowering the rocket soon and getting him out
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
weather conditions have improved enough to allow the pad crew to begin the unmounting operation. Rocket will be lowered, Bob will be extracted and then we are going to raise it back up and do an automated start later today to see what happens. Regardless, launch today is scrubbed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Specialist Bob is out and making his return to the Astronaut Complex for a medical evaluation while the pad crew continues their work to get the rocket back to vertical and re-attached to the service towers
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket is remounted. Launch team will commence preflight at 22:00 UTC to give the atmosphere the entire day cycle to recharge from the sun's heat and ensure we can detect another attempt from the Monolith at forming a low-pressure system when the rocket is booted up
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket has been powered on for 20 minutes and weather desk is reporting no change to current conditions. Lead Scientist Cheranne has suggested that we switch off the Monolith A/C and see what happens. Everyone hold on to your butts...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
still nothing. Nothing!? What is even going on here? We have a rocket powered up on the pad and no storms are forming, even with the Monolith temple heating back up to outside air temperatures. Until we can figure this out, launch remains delayed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
if you're not familiar with the Monolith storms, they came about earlier this year after we unintentionally sent a rocket outside the magnetosheath of Kerbin. You can learn more about them in this website article: kerbalspace.agency/?p=8594
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after some time to recover from his ordeal yesterday and think things over, Specialist Bob has ceded his spot to Specialist Bill. Bob says he's not ready to get back into that capsule anytime soon and will wait for his rotation to come back around
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob has been released from quarantine protocol but Bill remains sequestered - if anything happens to him then it will further delay the launch at least a week while Val & Jeb train on the mission specifics to replace him as primary/backup, even if they start today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Presider's flotilla is on its way back to Sheltered Rock - he commended us on our procedures for handling the storm yesterday and regrets his busy schedule will not allow him to wait around for the next attempt though he will try to make it back when it happens
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we did another remote startup of the rocket at the end of the previous day cycle w/o Monolith chilldown & still saw no indications of stormy weather attempting to form. Lead Scientist Cheranne and R&D Lead Wernher von Kerman are working their teams overtime to reach a conclusion
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch has been rescheduled to 7/23 @ 19:38 UTC while modifications are made over the weekend to the Monolith for even colder conditions. We also have a theory as to why it is behaving the way it is. Full details on our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9352
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
TL;DR - original theory of Monolith storm was because Mk6-II broke through the magnetosphere. However the next flight just happened to include kerbal tissue samples for exposure to space. Monolith must have thought we were launching a crewed mission, despite small samples
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new Monolith direct cooling system has been rigged and Wernher's team have begun their testing to see whether or not it will work. We'll know for sure by the end of tomorrow when launch readiness reviews are submitted
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
FD Lanalye is drilling her A team after ensuring they got rest over the weekend, Bill remains in good health, LE Simon has his crew doing an inspection of the rocket and Head of R&D Wernher von Kerman reports final tests are underway for the new Monolith direct-cooling system
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all re-submitted readiness reports have been reviewed & approved - once again we are 🚀 GO FOR LAUNCH 🚀. However we'd like everyone to manage expectations as the current forecast is only 40% favorable. Launch ops will begin at 14:28 UTC if forecast improves
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
🌅Sunrise/Sunset🌄
@ KSC (UTC-4)
7/23
#2🌅08:52:19 🌄12:39:06
#3🌅14:53:10 !!🚀👨🚀!! 🌄18:39:57
#4🌅20:54:01
7/24
#1🌄00:40:48 🌅02:54:52
#2🌄06:41:39
@ KSC (UTC-4)
7/23
#2🌅08:52:19 🌄12:39:06
#3🌅14:53:10 !!🚀👨🚀!! 🌄18:39:57
#4🌅20:54:01
7/24
#1🌄00:40:48 🌅02:54:52
#2🌄06:41:39
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill got to sleep in a bit since the rocket is already out on the pad and just needs to be lowered for him to board. While he's enjoying his choice breakfast the weather desk is using the extra time as well to put together a new forecast for the launch day cycle
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new forecast still shows only 40-50% chance of good weather. Hard to tell what an encroaching storm front from the west will do. They can sometimes power right over the mountains and bring down some serious weather on us. To be safe, launch is delayed until tomorrow @ 19:42 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the front stalled out and we have perfect launch weather right now around the previously-planned L-0. Hopefully future space satellites will help us improve models and better predict these weather events. Now we just have to hope tomorrow remains nice as well...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
updated forecast for tomorrow shows improved chances of 80% favorable weather, with potentially high surface winds being the only concern. Bill says he's looking forward to no longer being stuck inside. Pre-launch operations will commence at 14:52 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
🌅Sunrise/Sunset🌄
@ KSC (UTC-4)
7/24
#2🌅08:55:43 🌄12:42:30
#3🌅14:56:34 !!🚀👨🚀!! 🌄18:43:21
#4🌅20:57:25
7/25
#1🌄00:44:12 🌅02:58:16
#2🌄06:45:03
@ KSC (UTC-4)
7/24
#2🌅08:55:43 🌄12:42:30
#3🌅14:56:34 !!🚀👨🚀!! 🌄18:43:21
#4🌅20:57:25
7/25
#1🌄00:44:12 🌅02:58:16
#2🌄06:45:03
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill is finishing up his choice breakfast after another night's fitful sleep. He says he's changed the menu up each launch day & will stick with the one that gets him up into space. Assistants are prepping the rdy room for suit up while pad crew is heading out to lower the rocket
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
just Bill exits the Astronaut Complex main entrance for his final press photos and board the crew shuttle to head for the launch pad. Rocket is prepped for crew entry and standing by. Monolith chilldown process has already begun with Wernher on hand to supervise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h50m] pre-launch ops have officially begun with Bill climbing into the capsule. Boarding up to head to the pad some questions were lobbed at him about all the things that could go wrong. His response: "I'm too simple-minded, relatively speaking, to worry much about all that"
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h20m] capsule is sealed up with Bill snugly inside, Jeb is plugged in to keep him company and the pad crew has begun the process of raising the rocket back to vertical and hooking the service arm back up to the main tank. Photo from earlier prior to boarding
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h10m] almost back to where we left off last week - rocket mounting completed and weather desk will continue to monitor wind conditions but we have a GO for preflight. Jeb is back in Launch Control. Val ceded her CapCom duties as a gesture to support Bob's own decision
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h55m] Bill has coordinated with launch controllers and brought the capsule online, fully powered and initialized. Atmospheric pressure levels have remained unchanged. Wernher reports Monolith coolant is operating at full efficiency. Tanking permission has been granted
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h40m] rocket is now massing nearly 11t after being fully fueled. Pad crew is cleaning up while controllers continue to work with Bill through the preflight checklist. Tank levels will be watched closely to ensure there are no leaks present. Atmospheric pressure remains stable
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
"Rolling left. Check?"
"Check"
"Rolling right. Check?"
"Check"
"Pitching up. Check?"
"Check"
....
call/response continues between Bill & the pad crew as he manipulates the manual controls & they confirm movement. Hopefully tho Bill will not have to touch them at all during ascent
"Check"
"Rolling right. Check?"
"Check"
"Pitching up. Check?"
"Check"
....
call/response continues between Bill & the pad crew as he manipulates the manual controls & they confirm movement. Hopefully tho Bill will not have to touch them at all during ascent
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h55m] pad evacuation underway as we move into the engine and fuel system checks. We hope Bill can rely on his "simple-minded"ness to not be bothered by the fact that he's strapped atop 7t of explosives that hopefully won't ignite in an uncontrolled manner
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h30m] weather remains within limits, no "extraneous effects" detectable. Rocket preflight has concluded to the satisfaction of launch controllers, issues board is clear. MSV Tongjess is on station for range tracking setup. Pad crew returning for final close outs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-45m] launch rehearsal time, which will cover the ascent up to MECO & ensure that all assets are configured, ground stations are configured & capsule is configured properly for the mission along with everyone knowing their roles in it. Bill jokes his role is to "just hang on!"
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] winds picking up with sunrise are within expected margins, surface weather continues to be a GO as we move into final countdown procedures. Range Safety Officer is waiting for the all-clear report from the pad crew as they lock down and evacuate the launch site
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] RSO has ARMED the ignition system and the Flight Termination/Launch Abort System is now also ACTIVE. 500m exclusion zone around the pad is being enforced and any incursion will hold the count. All visitors please remain within designated areas
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-12m] small tanker truck left hooked up to the service towers has been remotely commanded to begin onload of the nitrogen gas used to pressurize the tanks prior to launch. Stored in a pressurized vessel itself, late onload protects pad workers from any rupture (Bill has LES)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[HOLD] L-5m final poll was not successful as the kerbs at the weather desk say they need more time to assess the upper-level wind conditions. While initial constraints are tight to ensure Bill's safety, we do have room to work the numbers based on past Ascension launch experience
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
weather team still debating. Ops Director (OD) @DKerman_KSA has made it clear to them that if they aim to propose a launch at or near minimums they have to be 110% confident. What does Bill think of all this? He's asked Jeb if he can take a quick nap. The request was denied
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] weather kerbs have unanimously agreed we are GO for launch. All other stations have been re-polled and came back GO. Launch permission has been granted by the OD. Rocket remained primed & ready so countdown has restarted with updated L-0 of 19:58 UTC. FTS internal
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
don't forget you can watch the rocket's ascent live on our Ops Tracker - tune in now if you haven't already! We will only tweet out updates every minute as usual. Ascent will last ~3.5min due to the low TWR ops.kerbalspace.agency
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3m] preliminary tank pressurization has begun to allow for extra rigidity once the service arm, now unlocked for release, swings away to leave the rocket standing atop the engine mount. Bill is undergoing final suit integrity checks & switching back to internal life support
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-2m] terminal count! Service arm has detached leaving the rocket on internal power and RF comms. AFCS has activated to take command. Controllers checking battery drain rates and comm data rates. Bill has nothing left to do but sit back, confirm readouts & enjoy the ride
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-1m] Jeb has informed Bill "it's pucker time!" as only the seconds continue to tick down on the clock. Final GO/NO GO at T-30s & then everyone will be holding their breaths while the rocket begins the following ignition sequence prior to lift off
Here comes history? Stand by!
Here comes history? Stand by!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ignition sequence was nominal & WE 👏 HAVE 👏 LIFT OFF!! The first kerbed rocket is ascending to carry Specialist Bill up into the black void of space! Rocket will clear the tower in ~3 seconds and then begin to head downrange at nearly full throttle. GO ASCENSION! GO BILL!! 🚀✨
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill is supersonic, through Max Q. Pitch-over rate is right on the money & on course heading 53°. Throttle decreasing steadily to maintain TWR of 1.65. Telemetry looks good & Bill is making regular callouts to assure everyone that what we're seeing is right. All nominal!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have confirmed rocket is shallow on ascent. Pitchover increased shortly after L+1m & did not hold at 48°. Apokee still climbing & nearly into space with over a min left of burn. Danger of overheat in atmo negligible due to low throttle. Bill says "keeping calm & thrusting on!"
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
31s left to MECO & although rocket pitch-over continues (from momentum not control surfaces) apokee is well outside atmo. Once engine cuts off the mad scramble will begin to determine how the shallow flight affects the downrange trajectory & what measures need to be taken
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
THERE'S A KERBAL IN SPAAAACE!!! However everyone is too focused on the unforeseen situation to really celebrate at this time - we still have to make sure Bill gets back down safely. We are currently monitoring the capsule separation & RCS thrusters pushing it clear of the lifter
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we had a clean capsule sep & pushaway. Bill has found guidance computer still locked into ascent mode & will not accept RCS orientation commands but manual controls responding fine so leaving computer alone. Capsule momentum flipped it retrograde & Bill is holding orientation
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill has already passed thru 107.996km apokee. Trajectory analysis shows he should make the water, but even coming down over land he's on course and will miss any high terrain features. If needed the LES tower is still attached & can retrofire to slow final descent after re-entry
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
flight surgeon has been keeping a sharp eye on Bill's vitals & all still looks okay. Bill has been too busy to do much other than fly the capsule (tho he's caught some peeks out the window of course) but he's assured everyone as often as possible he feels no neg effects of zero-G
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
coming up on atmo in <1min. Bill says all good tho noise of spacecraft louder than expected, a bit disorienting not being able to hear the thrusters firing like in the sim. He's positioned well tho & should see an even milder re-entry than originally planned, which isn't so bad
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill had to override the computer turning off the RCS for re-entry so he could roll the capsule "up" to face away from Kerbin & begin re-entry butt-down. He will disable it again shortly for ballistic re-entry. Expecting plasma blackout any second now
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
still under blackout - static crackling through the comms piped into the mission control loud speakers. Could last over a minute with such a shallow re-entry. Jeb will shortly begin to call out for a response from Bill - "Control to Ascension, do you copy?" and we wait......
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
"Control this is Ascension - copy you loud & clear! Heard my chutes pop, can you confirm?" Yes we can!! Chutes are pre-deployed & will stay reefed until lower in the atmosphere. Everyone happy & relieved to hear Bill's voice over the speakers. Let's bring him home!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
big grins all around the control room as Bill descends towards the water under a full canopy. He had to endure only just under 6Gs on re-entry. His new landing location puts him about 1.5 hours from MSV Aldeny, which had already gotten underway shortly after launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
🎉🎊 KERZZAAAAAH!! 🎊🎉 welcome back to our first space explorer! Cheers, hugs, high fours, backslaps - the control room has erupted in celebration after the capsule safely splashed down. Still in sight of Ockr relay, we can stay in touch with Bill until MSV Aldeny arrives
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
post-launch operations well underway here @ KSC, pad crew inspecting for any damage while controllers perform initial post-flight analysis to ensure all data is properly collected. Bill continues to float about; he can blow the hatch if capsule takes on water but landing was soft
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill just concluded a radio conversation with the Presider, who congratulated him and all of us on our accomplishment today. It's been a long journey to get here but we've made it and will continue to press on to further and grander frontiers! 🌠💫
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
still adrift waiting for MSV Aldney to arrive Bill says he's getting bored and the boat better hurry up or he's going for a swim.
Jeb: "Bill the water is freezing out there."
Bill: "I'm in a space suit!!"
Jeb: "Bill the water is freezing out there."
Bill: "I'm in a space suit!!"
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
night falling over the recovery zone, MSV Aldeny has arrived in the area and made direct contact with Bill, instructing him to flip on the capsule's strobe beacon so they can spot him in the growing darkness
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill managed to stay put until the capsule was hauled out of the water. He's back on his feet aboard MSV Aldeny & will shortly set sail for Sheltered Rock, where they will arrive late tomorrow. Everyone here is ready to party the rest of the day away. Celebration time! Ah yea! 🥂
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although he was very busy during his short flight through space thanks to the pitch anomaly, Mission Control did tell Bill when he was passing over the site of our first future surface colony and he was able to stick the camera up to the window for a shot. North is left
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Aldeny has arrived at Sheltered Rock, where Specialist Bill will undergo a full medical evaluation to assess his body's reaction to the brief space flight before returning to KSC this weekend. He maintains feeling no ill effects since the mission
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Dr. Murstap's rocket sled has been completed in the HAB and awaits completion of the test track next week. Everything is on schedule to begin test runs at the start of August with kerbed runs by Murstap to begin in September if all goes well
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 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
Specialist Bill's full physical examination has been completed with no obvious signs of problems from his short jaunt through space, but doctors still wary and will be going over the data closely before clearing Val for the next flight. Bill will be back at KSC tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this week will go down forever in history and we are extremely proud of what we have achieved after nearly three years of work. Get more details via our Ops Summary and we hope everyone has a relaxing weekend kerbalspace.agency/?p=9448
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today Specialist Bill gets a Hero's Parade through his home cavern of Umbarg in celebration of him being the first kerbal to reach space. His only stipulation was that his three crew-mates could join him. Team effort!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our next big milestone is coming up with the next launch being our 50th rocket mission! So close to combining that with 1st space flight but at the same time happy to let it have its own recognition. Unsure yet which flight will be 50th - Val's Mk1 or unkerbed Mk1
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
@StronkTenk_ The plan was to have one in orbit already but the Ascension Mk1 turned out to not be capable so we have to wait for the Mk2 so probably early 2020 assuming it can put a payload into orbit by the end of this year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the track for the rocket sled has been completed, running nearly the full length of the runway at just under 2km. The remaining few hundred meters at the end is a water trough which will rapidly decelerate the sled. Test runs will begin next week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are working hard towards our next rocket launches - check our Ops Summary to see what we did this week towards that end and get a preview of the next three Ascension missions: kerbed Mk1, unkerbed Mk1 and unkerbed Mk2 kerbalspace.agency/?p=9483
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our astronauts, mostly Bill, have concluded a whirlwind week of media engagements across all 4 caverns and are looking forwards to taking the following week of leave - their first real vacation in months! Rest well-earned we can all agree
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
oh hey we forgot to award ourselves a new ribbon! We've also added a new record for Longest Time in Space, which Bill has initially set at 05m21s. Check out our other achievements, firsts and records: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9510 what other records should we track?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket sled is being placed on the track today - sans rocket. There's still a lot of basic testing that needs to be done before we send it screaming at high speeds down the track, even with a dummy aboard, since we don't want to damage the track or the sled if possible
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
flight analysis for the kerbed Ascension Mk1 mission last month has been posted: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9491 Ascension team is now working to schedule the next two missions - expect dates to be announced later this week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
TL;DR - pitch problems rectified for future flights, LVD ascent profile modeling getting better. Attempting the same planned trajectory for next mission and Ascension engineers have already begun work on a Mk1-B single-occupancy capsule for 2020
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
test runs of the rocket sled began today after successful installation yesterday. A security patrol car is hooked on each side via cable to a shuttle that pulls the sled down the length of the track at varying speeds to ensure alignment and wheels are good
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the shuttle the cars are hooked to, which is itself hooked to the sled, is designed to keep the cable pull even from both sides, since the drivers wouldn't be in perfect sync, and ensures the sled is pulled straight down the track with no lateral force. Good runs today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the unkerbed Mk1 & Mk2 missions will use the newer, lighter fins & ctrl surfaces. Kerbed Mk1 will stick to originals not just because they are well-tested but the same mass makes it easier for flight planners to stick to the same trajectory we wanted for the 1st kerbed mission
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have dates for the next Ascension Mk1 missions!
Uncrewed Mk1: 8/27 @ 15:30
Crewed Mk1: 9/17 @ 17:10
Aug mission will test several new science instruments & Sep mission will send Cdr Val into space (Cpt Jeb is her backup). Details on bit.ly/Ops_Tracker
Uncrewed Mk1: 8/27 @ 15:30
Crewed Mk1: 9/17 @ 17:10
Aug mission will test several new science instruments & Sep mission will send Cdr Val into space (Cpt Jeb is her backup). Details on bit.ly/Ops_Tracker
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
RT @AstroAnticss: can I take over from @justhereforksa as official haiku writer?
Val should go to space/But if something happens then/Jeb will take her place
Up into the sky
Either Val or Jeb will fly
Who knows? Not this guy
Val should go to space/But if something happens then/Jeb will take her place
Up into the sky
Either Val or Jeb will fly
Who knows? Not this guy
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after towing the sled for a few dozen runs down the track these past two days, some minor adjustments will be made to the rail alignment over the next week followed by more test runs that will hopefully certify the track ready for accel/decel testing w/test dummy Greggery
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the vertical test stand today had a good static fire of the K2-X engine that will power the next unkerbed Mk1 rocket into space. Before the kerbed Mk1 engine gets its turn, we will make sure dampeners functioned properly to keep the fuel tank from damaging the engine again
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
check out what went down at KSC this past week as we continue to work towards new missions for all programs: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9510 we wish everyone a relaxing weekend! Any body out there have space/science-related activities planned?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the astronaut crew is ready to get back to work tomorrow and begin training for the next space mission. They all had a relaxing vacation - Bill did some racing & wrenching, Bob & Val spent some surface time camping & stargazing, Jeb caught up on his computer gaming
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the first solid booster for the rocket sled has arrived in the VAB today and will be checked out over the next week while track tesing continues. Still hoping to use it to push the sled later this month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill spent time with the capsule simulator team today planning some changes to make the experience feel more authentic now that he knows what the differences are between simulated and actual space flight - such as not being able to get audio feedback of the thrusters firing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Air History Museum in Kravass has bought the capsule Specialist Bill flew into space. We'll be buying a new capsule with the money and for the mission next month the backup capsule we bought back in Feb will be put into service
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after track re-alignment the sled is back to being towed by our patrol cars, the fastest vehicles on the campus. They can get up to ~40m/s while pulling the sled which is a small fraction of the speed it will actually travel, but good enough for basic testing purposes
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
another week in the rear-view, catch up on all that went down in our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9541 We have more details on the new Progeny Mk7-A mission, which will help test new tech for future Mk2 missions. Have a great weekend, everyone!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a look into the VAB as the Ascension Mk1 for next week (center) prepares to go vertical to have the capsule mounted while the one for Sept (left) begins integration w/ its engine. To the right is the sled undergoing SRB integration for a test run later this week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb & Val are working with MSV Tongjess this week on sea recovery drills - minus the capsule because we currently don't have a spare - new one has been ordered, original test article w/rocket sled, backup set for next mission. Believe it or not, a garbage bin works pretty good
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the heat shield from the last Ascension flight came back with 197u of ablator and after resurfacing still has 180u remaining. This implies It could be reused several more times but its not just the surface that we need to worry about, also structure from repeated High-G stress
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today saw the 1st real test of the rocket sled, roaring down the runway at speeds of ~250m/s with test dummy Greggery aboard. It did not fly off the track and stopped properly in the water trap @ >15Gs. Back in the VAB now crew is assessing damage to the sled's undercarriage
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Engineer Simon reports the rocket sled will need some parts replaced and reinforced against the massive deceleration at the end of the track, but future runs should leave the sled in good shape. We should be able to get another test in before the end of Aug
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ascension Mk1 for next week has passed load checks and is being laid back horizontal for final close outs. Mk1 for Sept has its engine prepared and will be center-stage next week to begin its final integration while the Ascension Mk2 & Progeny Mk7-A prep begins in the wings
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
it's been a month since we put a kerbal into space & we've gotten @yorshee to commemorate the occasion with this look at mission control when we got word Specialist Bill had safely splashed down, with Ops Dir @DKerman_KSA congratulating Flight Director Lanalye on a job well done
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our crew have returned successfully from their latest survival excursion, which helps them prepare for an off-target landing which could set them down in hazardous conditions that could require 1-2 days for us to locate and recover them. Obviously something we hope never happens!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket sled has been repaired and mated with its second booster for another test run tomorrow. It will still be unkerbed and some changes to the water trap have also been done to reduce damage to the sled while still hopefully providing adequate stopping power
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Ascension Mk1 mockup joins the Progeny Mk4 (first in space) out on our campus lawn. This weekend a special dedication ceremony will be held and the Presider will be on hand to award Specialist Bill a commendation medal for being the first kerbal in space
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our second rocket sled test was delayed yesterday due to technical issues but successfully ran the track earlier today. Initial post-run analysis shows everything to be within expected margins and Dr. Murstap is planning to be aboard the next run in September
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
final full week of mission training for Val and her backup Jeb will consist of many capsule simulator sessions along with physical exercise and evaluations. Bill and Bob have the lighter but still intense workload training with the A team of mission controllers
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
full analysis of the test data from the rocket sled run last week has made Dr. Murstap confident he can take the next ride. There's still ongoing debate about where to draw the initial line for the force of deceleration he will endure - anywhere from 14-18Gs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the capsule from last week's flight has been delivered back to KSC so it can begin to be closely inspected by engineers in the VAB to determine how it and its various accompanying parts are holding up after multiple flights, which will ultimately affect kerbed capsule reuse
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the rocket sled is heading out to the test track while Dr. Murstap gets ready to board it later this day cycle for the first kerbed test run. Wernher actually recommended another dummy test run but Murstap was adamant as only 2 boosters remain available for use after this one
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
allll aboard! Dr. Murstap has been sealed into the capsule, sled is tracked and the test team at launch control is working through checks on the booster engine. Current target for ignition is 17:40 UTC. Emergency response crews are also deploying near the track end
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
5min to ignition, all systems are GO! Once ignited, the booster will accelerate Murstap at up to 3.5Gs to speeds of ~260m/s over just 11 seconds and along 1.8km of track. The booster will flame out just before hitting the water trap and halt over the next 400m w/ ~18Gs of force
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
whooooosh!! We had a successful track run, seen here ending with the sled slamming to a stop in the water trap. Emergency response crews have moved in, but we already have Murstap assuring everyone over comms from the capsule that he is okay
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Murstap has been extricated from the capsule and carried away to the Support Village clinic for a full medical evaluation. The sled will be returned to the VAB for inspection and integration with the next SRB if it hasn't received any damage during the run
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
released from the medical clinic, Murstap says he will definitely take a break & deep dive the data before the next run later this month. He described the experience as "mildly uncomfortable" and gave a lot of credit to the Mk1 capsule design for helping him take the strain
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VAB is quite busy these days with this month's Ascension Mk1 center stage for final integration prep, next month's Ascension Mk2 is starting to get some attention and the Progeny Mk7-A for later this month is almost ready for staging. Guest appearance by the rocket sled
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
obviously none of our astronauts like to "die" in the simulator, but if they never did then they wouldn't be training hard. Jeb says FD Lanalye must have some kind of hidden sadistic personality to manage to come up with so many ways to try to kill them
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Engineer Simon reports from the VAB that the rocket sled handled the quick stop much better and they won't need to replace any undercarriage parts before the next test. They will integrate a fresh SRB next week and be ready for the next test later this month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
learn more details on what went on this past week in our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9624 Everyone have a relaxing weekend! We look forward as always to greeting all the visitors that will be stopping by - be sure to check out the new Ascension Mk1 static display!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Val and Jeb have both been released this weekend to head home and spend time with their friends and families before the intensive week leading up to the mission begins. Jeb hails from Ockr and Val was born in Kravass
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
next week's Ascension Mk1 has gone vertical for capsule integration and load checks in the VAB over this week, after which it will be laid back horizontal for final closeouts and loading up onto the carry vehicle for rollout next Monday
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb managed to just barely beat Val 434 successful missions to 431 (total) in their last day of capsule simulator training. There's undoubtedly still things that can go wrong we haven't thought of to prepare for but hopefully that list is very, very small
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the rocket sled has finished integration with the second to last SRB today and will be back out on the track this day cycle to stand ready for the next test run late this following week. Until then the water trap will be deepened to decelerate the sled faster & generate more Gs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with the previous Ascension flight analysis wrapping up & data from the rocket sled testing, planners have made a late change to next week's mission w/ a higher trajectory from ensuring the rocket burns out w/in the atmosphere, nearing 300km apokee & slightly rougher on re-entry
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Commander Val & Captain Jeb are now sequestered within the Astronaut Complex until next week's mission. They'll be regularly monitored & only accessed by medical staff to ensure both are & remain in good health. Bill & Bob are totally not planning to lounge outside their windows
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all the nitty gritty details on last month's Ascension Mk1 flight are now available along with a full data and performance analysis from the rocket telemetry. Want to know what these plots are all about? Check out the report: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9754
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
TL;DR: we learned a lot of new lessons, some of which have already been applied to Val's upcoming mission for what we hope will continue to be progress towards a more on-target ascent & final trajectory so our future missions can save fuel & fly tighter margins
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
daily medical checkups for our crew in quarantine ensure not only that they remain in good health but also allow physicians to collect base line data they can then use after the astronaut returns to see what effects exposure to 0G might have on the body, even for a short time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
load checks passed, structural elements all good, the Ascension Mk1 was laid back horizontal in the VAB today then gone over with a fine-toothed comb (AKA 26 page checklist) to make sure everything was completed as planned during its construction. They'll finish tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
final closeouts passed, loaded up on its carry vehicle and marshaled to the front of the VAB, Commander Val's ride to space is now ready to head for the pad next week! Jeb has been trying to convince everyone he's hearing lots of coughing coming from her quarters
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
Val, primary crew, is spending most of her time while cooped up reviewing her mission materials. Jeb, backup crew, is pretty much gaming until he passes out. Had their roles been reversed... they would both most likely be doing the same thing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Ascension Mk1 had a good roll out and mounting over the previous day cycle. Flight Director Lanalye and her A team are preparing for a wet dress rehearsal to make sure all connections and pad equipment are ready for operations as part of their launch readiness
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our 1st kerbed launch had the rocket rolled out the same day so we wouldn't have to lower it again. However we ended up doing that anyways a few times & the pad crew found it to not be as big a hassle as feared, so now it is rolled out a day prior & can undergo extra checks
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
final medical checkup for our crew shows they are both ready for flight, Ops Dir @DKerman_KSA has signed off on them and the rocket - we are officially 🚀 GO FOR LAUNCH! 🚀 90% good forecast w/chance of surface winds. Pre-launch ops will kick off @ 12:10 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's an early start for pad workers, who are heading out now just prior to sunrise so the rocket can be lowered off its engine mount and back onto the carry vehicle in preparation for crew loading later this day cycle
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Val & Jeb are both awake (well, in Jeb's case woken up) and enjoying their choice breakfasts prior to suiting up. Val will depart for the pad at L-5hrs while Jeb remains in the ready room in the event that he is needed to crew the capsule
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
🌅Sunrise/Sunset🌄
@ KSC (UTC-4)
9/17
#2🌄09:48:47 🌅11:59:09 !!🚀👨🚀!!
#3🌄15:49:38 🌅18:00:00
#4🌄21:50:29
9/18
#1🌅23:00:51 🌄03:51:20
#2🌅06:01:42
@ KSC (UTC-4)
9/17
#2🌄09:48:47 🌅11:59:09 !!🚀👨🚀!!
#3🌄15:49:38 🌅18:00:00
#4🌄21:50:29
9/18
#1🌅23:00:51 🌄03:51:20
#2🌅06:01:42
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our recovery vessel MSV Aldeny left port yesterday to sail out to the recovery zone. They have checked in to report choppy seas but not enough to endanger recovery of the capsule after splashdown. They will continue to report conditions up until final launch polls
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5h] Cdr Val has climbed aboard the crew shuttle to depart for the launch pad, the rocket was lowered without issue. Expect updates from us at these major milestones as the countdown to launch progresses
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h45m] capsule is prepped for ingress and Val is climbing in, assisted by Bob and pad workers as the angle makes getting in easy but strapping in is a bit more of a challenge while wanting to roll sideways. Crew photo snapped earlier after arriving at the pad
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h20m] capsule hatch has been sealed, loading ramp moved away and Bob has his intercom plugged in to keep tabs on Val inside as mounting operations begin to get the rocket back to vertical atop its engine mount and hooked into the service tower
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h10m] conditions outside at KSC are great as we approach second sunset, weather kerbs are taking stock of the day cycle's meteorological data from regional weather stations, airships and maritime vessels to work up a new launch forecast
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h40m] Flight Director Lanalye has her A Team assembled in Launch Control for final mission brief. If the rocket manages to stay on course and fly the planned trajectory Val should have nearly 13 minutes in space, more than twice as long as Bill's 0G trip
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h10m] mounting was wrapped up during flight briefing, weather remains GO with new launch forecast showing no adverse surface conditions. Bob is back at Launch Control for his CapCom duties, walking Val through capsule configuration with the launch team
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h55m] Monolith chilldown was begun earlier today and weather desk reports atmospheric pressure is stable. Rocket is configured for tanking and pad crew has the fuel truck hooked to the service towers. GO has been given to begin propellant onload
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h40m] tanking completed on schedule, pad workers getting fuel equipment tidied up while flight controllers continue preflight, keeping Val busy so she's not thinking about the 7t of explosive liquid she's now sitting atop of. Launch Escape System has been armed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Ascension Mk1 can be flown with an empty capsule - so what does the crew have to do? The control panel still needs manual configuration for flight, readouts have to be visually checked, manual controls need to be manipulated to ensure proper function.... plenty!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h55m] issues board has cleared up nearing the end of preflight, engine systems are now being checked after the pad crew clears out except for the Quick Response Team sheltering in the nearby bunker. Most of Val's work in the capsule prior to launch has been completed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob & Val are very close friends, so having him to chat with during this late stage in preflight has kept her relaxed when she doesn't have much to do & anxiety can creep in. Still, Flight Surgeon is keeping a close eye on her vitals even when down here on the ground
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-45m] all systems are set and assets in place for the launch team and Val to run a full ascent simulation to make double sure all is ready and usually as a final exercise since FD Lanalye can throw in some curve balls. Launch countdown intensifies...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] final countdown has begun, meaning from this point on any issues will likely result in a reset to L-30 with a new L-0. Local weather conditions and conditions at the recovery site remain green. Pad workers prepping to clear the launch site
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
there was an extended period of grunting, scraping and bumping noises coming over the capsule comms. When they died down Bob asked - "what was all that?" Val, embarrassed she forgot to mute her mic, replied - "I was scratching an itch on my head"
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
flight controllers are all taking one last look through their data getting ready to report polling status while Bob walks Val through a final suit integrity check & switch over to internal life support, which Bill said he felt rushed doing later in the count
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] Final readiness polls complete: Wx: GO; Range: GO; Flight: GO; Tracking Station: GO; Downrange Tracking: GO; Ops Director @DKerman_KSA: Launch permission granted! 🚀GO ASCENSION🚀 FTS power internal, service tower boom unlocked for retraction, AFCS rdy for terminal count
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Flight Surgeon reports Val is finally showing an elevated heart rate, but at this stage that is considered normal and anything else would have been cause for a bit of concern - anyone who is not at least a little afraid generally tends to make bad decisions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-2m] we have arrived at the terminal count, AFCS is now in command - Val has manual controls she should not have to touch during ascent. Service tower boom has swung away leaving the rocket on internal power & life support, RF comm check underway
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-1m] live telemetry will be loading shortly - ops.kerbalspace.agency Val is ready, eyes locked on her panel to call out readings during ascent. Final GO/NO GO at T-30 before automated launch sequence begins. Hang on Val! Get ready.... get set....
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ignition sequence was good - LIFT OFF of the 9th Ascension Mk1, carrying Commander Valentina skyward to become the second kerbal in space!! Rocket will throttle up as it clears the towers, maintaining 1.65 TWR as it rolls onto 54° heading and begins to pitch over downrange
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket has passed thru MaxQ & is supersonic, guidance is looking the best we've ever seen this early in the ascent - nominal pitch over, nominal heading. Engine parameters nominal. Val is dutifully reading out her instruments to ensure we're getting good data
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
some turbulence passing through the upper atmo bumped Val around a bit but overall pitch & heading remained nominal. Control authority remains good as rocket is approaching 40km and Val is prepping for "the kick" as the engine will throttle up to full w/ 3.6Gs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MECO was 3km short of planned altitude but overall an extremely nominal ascent! Capsule is adrift after separation & Val confirms guidance is released properly and she has full control of both the RCS and SAS systems
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with just over 4min to apokee, Val will spend more time in space on her way up than Bill did his entire flight! She currently has the capsule under manual control and is spinning about to take in the sights through the window, camera at the ready
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Val has unstrapped to get a better view out the window. Not really much room to float around inside the cramped capsule but you can still float. Like Bill, she reports no negative effects on her breathing, vision, swallowing, etc. Flight Surgeon reports her vitals are nominal
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after passing through 251.907km apokee, only 47km lower than planned, Val is reluctantly leaving the window to strap back in and begin preparing for re-entry. New trajectory has been plotted and MSV Aldney is already on the move towards the new recovery zone ~35km west of target
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
getting the capsule reoriented Val was still able to barely spot the lift stage out the window. Controllers are debating whether she should make additional maneuvers to put some more distance between the two craft - a collision on re-entry would be catastrophic
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
secured back in her seat, Val is proceeding through the checklist for re-entry. SAS guidance enabled to hold retrograde, she has rolled the capsule "up". LES jettison armed, chutes armed - controllers deemed separation distance good from lift stage. Atmo in <2min!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
tense moments in mission control as static crackles through the comm speakers from ionized air blocking radio transmission as the capsule plunges through the atmosphere in excess of 1.9km/s, heating the external surface to over 1,000°F (>550°C). Bob will call out for Val soon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
contact! Radio blackout lasted 33s and Val came back "read you loud & clear!" on the first attempt. We have confirmation of LES jettison and initial chute deployment. Updated telemetry coming in shows Val only had to sustain +10G (max 11.4) for 6 seconds
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
✨KERZZAH!!!✨ Mission success, with Val back on the surface safe & sound! MSV Aldeny is about 45min away making best speed to the landing site. Everyone busy congratulating each other in the control room. Val says she wants to get out, float & feel weightless again
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
as much as our crew seem to desire a swim after the mission, procedure dictates they stay put until Aldeny hauls the capsule up the ramp onto their deck. Ending up in the water is only in case of an emergency, and their suits can pressurize to keep them afloat
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
at last the recovery vessel was in visual range of the capsule when it deployed full canopy! Photo taken through the eyepiece of the high powered scope, bumped a bit. Attempting to re-center lost tracking and the capsule fell below the horizon. Still, not bad!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
arriving just after sunset, capsule was located, hooked & pulled aboard MSV Aldeny. One of the deck crew thought it gallantrous to pick Val up out of the capsule - yea he won't ever try something like that again, suffice to say. Aldeny should arrive at Sheltered Rock early tmrw
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
post-launch operations have concluded, weather balloon returned, pad remains in good shape, controllers have gathered up all their terminal data & will receive the capsule data tomorrow along with images from Val's camera. Next launch is the Progeny Mk7-A in just over a week!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Aldeny has been docked and crew offloaded in Sheltered Rock. Val will remain there for medical checkups and return with the capsule on a supply airship Friday. Jeb is stoked to hear that his flight for early November has been confirmed, exact date TBD
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the complete telemetry data for Val's flight is now available: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d… we've also got her pictures and will be going through them as part of the flight analysis. Here is one just after lift stage separation, looking back towards KSC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
initial telemetry data review has also clinched Val the new bit.ly/KSARecords for time in space at 11m2s while also claiming the new record for a kerbal's height over Kerbin at 251.907km. Jeb, obviously, is keen to break these on his flight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
one cool bit that may not be immediately obvious from the flight telemetry is check out the G readout while in space. Yup, you can see Val moving the capsule around. Each thruster only generates 0.02kN of force
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Dr. Murstap once again felt the need for speed and was sent rocketing (literally!) down the track in his rocket sled, achieving similar speeds to his first run but this time coming to a halt over a much shorter distance, placing as much as 26Gs of force on his body
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Murstap did suffer some minor injuries including severe bruising from the straps and a broken wrist due to allowing his hand to slide off the rest during the boost and thus leaving it "unsecured" during deceleration. He says he's still upping the Gs for his final run though
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
once she was unstrapped, Commander Val could get a better view out her window, seen here looking along her direction of travel past Sheltered Rock and Ockr. Minmus is rising over the horizon and the capsule is passing through 160km on its way to apokee
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
things are known to be stormy north and south of the equator and this massive system (two systems colliding??) to the north of Sheltered Rock, seen from 250km, certainly gives everyone a new perspective on the scope of these weather events
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Val's last photo before she had to leave the window and strap in for re-entry as the capsule passed down below 200km. If you look closely at the bay that is cut off by cloud cover, over the water is the lift stage way off in the distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Support Village airship tether is now occupied by another cargo carrier, this time bringing us supplies along with the capsule and Commander Val, who won't be sticking around long as she has media engagements this weekend in Umbarg & Kravass
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after this past week's mission, the Ascension team leads had a two-hour meeting and brought their concerns to Operations Director @DKerman_KSA, who made the decision that we are going to bump the Mk2 flight to December & move Jeb's Mk1 up to late October
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
basic reason is better guidance comes with less fin angle, but more fin angle is needed to fly the planned orbital trajectory so Ascension will wait to get better data on Progenitor's steerable fins after this month's launch, then scale them up for the Mk2
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
#OTD in 2017 Cpt Jeb unintentionally proved a kerbal could withstand 24Gs of momentary force without serious injury when the Deuce dove into the waters just offshore during an early test flight. We are a hardy folk! kerbalspace.agency/?p=5332
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this incident planted the seed of an idea that would grow for several years under the care of Dr. Murstap Kerman to become the rocket sled test program currently underway here at KSC to explore the limits of kerbal physiology
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a final photo from Commnder Val's mission, after she was strapped back down. Prior to re-entry she had to roll the capsule "up" so her bottom was towards Kerbin. This left her with a view out into the cosmos. The Great Expanse - we'll get there someday...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although her parade isn't as big as Bill's was in the current capital Sheltered Rock, the welcome Val is getting at Kravass is much more personal being it's her home cavern. The local government will be awarding her a keystone to the city for her many accomplishments
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
primary crew Cpt Jeb and his backup Spc Bob have begun basic mission prep this week with the Ascension team, which will outline objectives while reviewing and analyzing data from the previous mission. This will culminate in a launch date after the flight report releases
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it took a while but we finally put together a video for the Ascension Mk1 using footage & images from Cdr Val's flight - even managed to store a bit more video during ascent finally. Sound on! Enjoy, and just imagine the Mk2... youtube.com/watch?v=ZukOY_…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all hail the week end! Rocketry crews will be enjoying a well-earned break next week before the lead up to the next launch in October. See what else has transpired and get more information via our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9834
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
flight analysis for Cdr Val's mission has been posted. Just a few ascent design issues to clean up next time. We are also actively working to resolve an issue in LVD we discovered while doing this analysis: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9878
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ascension team have announced a date for Captain Jebediah's mission - launching 10/22 @ 18:25 UTC! He and his backup Specialist Bob have already begun their mission training this week consisting so far of simulator runs and emergency capsule egress drills
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the lift stage for the Mk2 will begin its conversion to a Mk1 this week, simply by removing the decouplers that are meant to hold the solid rocket motors the Mk2 needs to help boost it off the pad. This will be the lifter for Captain Jeb's flight later this month
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
Specialist Bill, primary CapCom and Commander Valentina, his backup, have started their mission training with the Launch Control A team today. We place astronauts in these roles since they are best suited to quickly communicating complex instructions in a way they would also understand
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the final solid rocket motor has been integrated with the rocket sled and brought out to the track today to prepare for a run next week. Murstap is planning to go all-out but has been dealing with push-back from the project's oversight committee in regards to safety
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this week has mainly been water recovery exercises for Jeb and Bob just offshore from KSC. We don't need our actual recovery vessel MSV Aldeny, berthed at Sheltered Rock, because they aren't training to be hauled up in the capsule onto the deck as if everything went right
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with Bob being even more of an intellectual than Val, Jeb has had trouble getting along with him during training. Jeb likes to call him "Bob the Brain". It's gotten so bad we've actually separated them, which still works fine overall since they aren't on mission together
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb's Ascension Mk1 was integrated with its engine last week and will go vertical today in the VAB so the capsule can be lifted up, placed on top and load checks carried out on the decoupler and heat shield. It's always best to find problems before launching...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the decoupler's main job is actually to hold the capsule away from the fuel tank during ascent - the force of it atop the tank alone would crush it. The decoupler has strong cross-braces that sit under the capsule & distribute stress to the tank sides, which are strongest
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
so it's not actually holding the capsule down on its own very much. If it fails to release automatically and the manual release also fails, the LES push motors have enough force to yank the capsule free once the rocket is in space
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Dr. Murstap has been loaded up into the capsule for his final run, which should see him sustain the highest amount of Gees so far. Final prep underway in Launch Control as FD Lanalye oversees the sled team controllers. Ignition set for 18:40 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all systems GO for SRB ignition in 5 minutes, Murstap will also be testing a new restraint harness design on this run and hopes to reach in excess of 34Gs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
emergency vehicles have rushed to the track end after Murstap was unresponsive following the rapid deceleration - so much so that monitoring instruments actually failed to record just how extreme it was. FD Lanalye has ordered a full diagnostic
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Murstap has been extracted from the capsule, he is alive and responsive but seems disoriented, is having trouble breathing and claims he cannot see. He is being rushed over to the medical center in the Support Village for a full examination
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
once again Jeb comes out victorious in number of successful sim runs during training, which is wrapping up this week. Jeb says Bob thinks too much when things start to go sideways (sometimes literally) whereas he just "does what needs to be done"
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here's a look at Murstap's run from the middle of the track, at which point he was traveling nearly 200m/s. He remains in the medical center listed as stable but under observation with vision loss, 2 broken ribs, strained neck, minor head trauma and some internal bruising
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Murstap remains under medical observation, will not require surgery just plenty of rest to heal - although doctors remain unsure about his lack of eyesight, caused by retinal bleeding that could lead to retinal detachment. We wish him a speedy recovery!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
load checks are complete for the latest Ascension Mk1 - tomorrow it will be laid back horizontal and given a detailed final inspection over the next two days and if all looks good it will then be loaded up onto the carry vehicle for rollout on Monday
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
continuing investigation into the last rocket sled run has found several safety systems both on the track & the sled were disabled. When confronted with this discovery Dr. Murstap admitted he did it, saying he wasn't going to let the oversight committee curtail his experiment
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with enough data from re-entries of the Mk1 capsule, Ascension engineers have been able to model the possibility of using the 4 LES push motors as a last-ditch attempt at survivable recovery should the chutes completely malfunction. Result: probably not
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the procedure would be to drop the heat shield & vent all remaining cold gas to reduce mass. Next the flotation device would be deployed to create more drag (tho it could possibly rip apart). Finally the push motors would be fired just before impact
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
impact speeds would likely still be too high however, beyond the tolerance of the capsule to withstand unless it were built to do so, which would add too much mass. Instead we are looking into a slightly more powerful LES tower - still adds more mass but not as much
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
mission training is complete, Captain Jeb & Specialist Bob are now in quarantine in the Astronaut Complex until launch day, allowing for them to rest after their vigorous training schedule and remain under close medical observation
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the future of the rocket sled program has been cast into doubt - Murstap has already been removed from the project (although he insists it would be such anyways due to his injuries & it's not permanent) & the team is reviewing data to see if more testing is warranted
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have another solidly-built rocket ready for rollout next week! Great job to Lead Engineer Simon and his team in the VAB, who worked tirelessly to get the lift stage ready on short notice when we flipped around the launch schedule
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
although they have access to a phone line to talk, Val & Bob are instead playing a game of pictograms through his window. Jeb says it's disgustingly cute & is glad they don't have adjacent rooms so he wasn't asked to join. Bob says he wouldn't have asked anyways
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
both of our crew in quarantine remain healthy. Jeb says he wishes the mission was tomorrow - he's tired of doctors poking him. Bob admits he's still working through some minor anxiety issues and is hoping Jeb doesn't suddenly come down with an illness
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the launch pad may have changed, the rocket may have changed, but ever since this first mounting the procedure has remained largely unchanged. Jeb's rocket is now undergoing the process after being rolled out to the pad earlier this day cycle
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
doctors report that Murstap's vision is improving and he will likely only require minor corrective surgery to restore his full sight. His other injuries continue to heal as well & he should be discharged next week. He remains committed to regaining leadership of the sled project
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all launch readiness reports have been reviewed and signed off on by Operations Director @DKerman_KSA which means we are GO for launch attempt tomorrow! Jeb says he probably won't sleep much. Bob agrees, but not for the same reasons. Prelaunch ops kick off @ 13:25 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
🌅Sunrise/Sunset🌄
@ KSC (UTC-4)
10/22
#2🌅07:57:07 🌄11:47:39
#3🌅13:57:58 !!🚀👨🚀!! 🌄17:48:30
#4🌅19:58:49 🌄23:49:21
10/23
#1🌅01:59:40 🌄05:50:12
@ KSC (UTC-4)
10/22
#2🌅07:57:07 🌄11:47:39
#3🌅13:57:58 !!🚀👨🚀!! 🌄17:48:30
#4🌅19:58:49 🌄23:49:21
10/23
#1🌅01:59:40 🌄05:50:12
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ahead of 2nd sunrise, launch crews are on their way to the pad to get the rocket unmounted and lowered for Captain Jeb to climb aboard later in the day cycle. Both he and Bob are already awake and getting ready for their choice breakfast meals prior to suiting up
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob & Jeb are suiting themselves up - they fly in the same pressure suits worn for atmospheric missions because even with a capsule pressure loss they won't be in space long enough to lose suit integrity. They only really need to help each other with their helmets
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5h] the countdown has officially begun! Jeb has exited the Astronaut Complex and boarded the crew shuttle for the launch pad, leaving Bob in the ready room in case he is needed at any point prior to launch. Expect updates from us at these major milestones in the count
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h45m] despite the pad crew's objections, Jeb refused to come down until his photo was taken. The hatch has since been opened and Jeb is now clambering aboard with assistance from the pad workers & Specialist Bill, who will be running CapCom today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Flight Director Lanalye had a quick consultation with Lead Engineer Simon about Jeb walking out onto the tank and was assured there is no danger as a result. She still formally complained to Ops Dir Drew who just sighed & threw out his arms like "what're we gonna do?" Jeb is Jeb
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h20m] crew loading has been completed on schedule and the rocket will now be raised back vertical and mounted again so preflight operations can begin. Bill is plugged into the capsule via intercom in case Jeb notices any problems from inside
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h40m] FD Lanalye and her Launch Team A have assembled in Launch Control for final mission briefing. Some minor ascent corrections have been made based on Val's flight but overall the mission is the same - gather more data on kerbal physiology while in 0G
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb & Bill were reportedly deep into a discussion on the possibility of attaching rockets to drag racing cars as mounting wrapped up and Bill had to pull out his intercom to return to Launch Control and begin setting up his console for preflight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h10m] we have GO from the weather desk to begin preflight operations. Rocket has been woken up, controllers are preparing to onload flight software while Jeb begins to configure his capsule instruments. Software update details: bit.ly/AFCS_ChangeLog
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h55m] Launch Control have confirmed pad workers have configured the rocket for tanking operations and given the GO to begin onloading 7t of liquid propellants while Jeb has also confirmed arming of the Launch Escape System
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h40m] the rocket's tanks are topped off & pad crew is unhooking the tanker truck to begin clearing the pad for launch. Pre-flight operations continue, with Monolith chill down apparently successful again as no weather alerts have been issued
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have declared an emergency at KSC after the rocket exploded on the launch pad a few minutes ago. The LES tower has successfully carried Jeb away and he is currently descending under chute ~800m away. Right now our focus is on rescuing any pad workers that may have survived
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
additionally a full evacuation of KSC, the neighboring Support Village and even camped out Monolith pilgrims has been ordered. All but staff needed for the pad rescue operation and Cpt Jeb's recovery will be departing immediately to Umbarg via the access tunnel
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are purposefully withholding details at this time as a security measure and *will not* be answering any questions until we are able to make a complete and formal statement. All staff & visitors are receiving evacuation instructions & are expected to comply
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb was extracted from the capsule with no injuries & sent off with the evacuation. Rescue operations at the launch pad have also ceased, sadly no survivors were found. The fire that has grown since the initial explosion as remaining fuel ignited will be left to burn out
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're still trying to wrap our heads around what happened yesterday and have been greatly comforted from the support shown by the public. We are also providing grief counselors to any KSA staff that require them. Our astronaut crew will all receive mandatory psych evals
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
TL;DR - a sect of violent Monolithic followers remains set against our space-bound ambitions even after being secretly banished to the other side of the planet by religious leaders, where they happened upon a large unknown population of kerbs receptive to "salvation"
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
TL;DR (it is a lot to take in) - our current stance is to work to determine all the details of how this attack was carried out and put in place measures to prevent future attempts. We are not backing down nor is any action yet able to be taken against those responsible
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have released our own video of the Deuce that flew into the Ascension Mk1. Monitoring cameras were activated once fueling operations began. It came in lights off & engines off - there was no warning & only the automated LES saved Jeb's life
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
video was adjusted for brightness & contrast but it all still happens pretty fast - aircraft comes gliding in from the left @ upwards of 100m/s & Jeb's capsule goes flying off to the right (you can make out the LES motors firing)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
.@mrtagnan there's no radar coverage until the tracking vessel comes on station later in the count. We've only cared about range issues for a rocket going up & hitting something, not the other way around. They chose their window of attack wisely. This is why we are now building our own radar station
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all of our astronaut crew have been cleared in their psychiatric evaluations, although Bob says he really didn't need more to be anxious about. Jeb told him not to worry, he's not about to let him rotate into command next mission and wants another shot at space soon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although the record high Gs sustained by Cdr Val on her last mission were not harmful, they were quite uncomfortable and could be more tolerant with training. A centrifuge is being planned for construction either on the KSC R&D campus or near our HQ underground in Umbarg
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the decision has been made to move the rocket sled testing out to the Kongo River Research Base so an even longer track can be built and also handle larger test vehicles. Murstap has undergone surgical procedures for his eyes and maintains he is still only on "medical leave"
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Dr. Murstap was moved to the outpatient ward today & is expected to be discharged over the weekend. His vision has improved but he will require corrective optics. A formal inquiry into his actions will be convened next month to determine if he is to continue to lead the project
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
unlike the Progeny Mk6 missions (not Mk7), which can be launched from the North Field, Ascension rockets require the launch pad and all future missions are on indefinite hold until we can fully assess the damage that was done to the pad and service structures
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with kerbed missions postponed until the launch pad is repaired, the entire astronaut crew is taking time to go back to basics and ensure all their fundamental skills are sound, which includes what they all hate most - being cooped up in a classroom most of the time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KNN reported a leak from the ASA investigation into the wreckage of the Deuce that crashed into our launch pad: conclusive evidence has been found that it is the plane reported missing earlier this year. The remains of the sole occupant who piloted the plane have yet to be ID'd
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have no official statement to give in response - we have cooperated with the ASA in giving them access to the aircraft debris from the launch pad but that is the extent of our involvement. Lots of questions tied to this revelation will certainly take more time to answer
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
one of the basic skills astronauts learn is wilderness survival. If something goes awry during a mission that puts them down outside of the planned landing area, they may need to survive on their own for hours or days. Our crew will be on training exercises this weekend
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our crew had to ironically be rescued early from their survival exercise when a large storm swept through and destroyed their base camp, burying them in nearly 2m of snow. They are all still alive though so the exercise in survival can certainly be called a success
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our crew are taking most of the week off to recover from mild frostbite but at least they got some good experience from their last excursion. As we like to say - traveling into space can be dangerous but so can training to travel into space
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
on moons like Eve's Gilly, which is only 13km in radius, you would literally have to watch your step if you were walking around because if you pushed too hard off one foot you might not be able to put the other foot down
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Dr. Murstap has been allowed to resume control of the rocket sled project as long as he remains the sole living test subject. Review board unanimously agreed he couldn't be trusted with anyone else's life. We wish him the best of luck out in the Kongo
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all 4 astronauts are working closely with the Ascension design team in charge of the Mk1-B capsule, which will be more capable of returning from higher altitudes with less Gs & also being able to withstand re-entry heat longer with the shallower re-entry profile
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
past updates may have erroneously referred to the new capsule as the Mk2, but the decision has since been made to mark capsules by occupancy, so a Mk2 capsule would be able to seat two astronauts. Letter designations will indicate revisions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
early end to the week, everyone is ready to kick back for the weekend after the successful end to the first Kerbal Sounding Project launch campaign. 2 more next month! Also the ASA report was released today & we have all the details in our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=10060
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Head of R&D Wernher von Kerman reports that although his engineers worked hard, they could not come up with a more powerful LES for last-ditch chute failure recovery which could also remain the same size and still fit atop the Mk1 capsule
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
in order to meet more stringent safety regulations that have begun to go into effect by KSA upper management, future Ascension Mk1 capsule flights will also carry radial chutes up near the top as backup in the unlikely event of a *complete* main chute failure
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a tumultuous year for our crew - a death, severe injury, severe anxiety, almost getting blown up... Val & Bill had it the best with successful space missions. Hopefully Jeb & Bob will get to pin some new ribbons next year. Will our crew grow again? Possibly
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket launches were up from last year, which only had 11, and we put 2 kerbals into space! That lineup could increase to as many as 6+ rockets by the end of next year with continued development of the Progeny Mk7 along with debut of the Ascension Mk2 & Mk3
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
welcome to 2020!! 🎉🥂 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
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
over the operational break the centrifuge was completed, adjacent to our HQ in Umbarg. It's been going through test runs with Greggery and this week our crew should all get a chance to pull some major extended Gs and see what they are really capable of
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all our crew have gotten to test out the centrifuge, which can spin up occupants or attached payloads to 18Gs. Bob was the only one to throw up, Val managed to last the longest under sustained 9G @ 12s but Jeb was the fastest to recover after waking up & Bill was most disoriented
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
crew training was planned and begun last month but has now kicked into high gear for the next kerbed Ascension mission (TBD NET Mar). Captain Jeb will once again be primary crew with Specialist Bob as his backup. Spc Bill will be primary on CapCom with Commander Val as his backup
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb & Bob have begun taking runs in the centrifuge that will simulate re-entry forces similar to what Cdr val endured on her flight, which flew the highest with a kerbal aboard
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronauts today began to test suit modifications as well as seat/strap changes while in the centrifuge. If we can't ease up much on re-entry G's at least we can make them more tolerable by making sure the suit & straps don't constrict blood flow & seat supports occupant properly
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are pleased to hear Lead Engineer Simon report that the capsule from the pad abort of Jeb's mission has been re-certified for flight. It required only minimal repairs from the landing on hard ground but was nonetheless put through extensive testing these last few months
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
since capsule re-use is something we are monitoring closely, the unused backup capsule will become primary for the next two flights. This will keep re-use of the unkerbed capsule well ahead of any ones we use for kerbed missions so any hint or actual failure is spotted in advance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ever since we demonstrated it was possible to open the Mk1 capsule hatch in space then close & secure it again for safe re-entry on an unkerbed flight rumors have persisted about a spacewalk from Jeb or Bob. Official response: As of right now we have NO such plans
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
RT @Tmccreight25: A spacewalk is definitely an interesting idea, but i don't like the thought of a Kerbal exiting their capsule whilst on a ballistic trajectory... gives me horrible visions of them being unable to return to the spacecraft and seal the hatch before reentry cooks them alive...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
final design work for the Mk1-B capsule remains ongoing, with one of the recent decisions being not to attempt to integrate the heat shield into the capsule bottom, which would make re-use more complicated and also not allow for varying levels of ablator to be used as easily
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after a week of multiple high-G runs in the centrifuge using the latest suit, seat and strap adjustments (based on data from Murstap's tests) both Bob and Jeb report to be feeling much less fatigued and have found the stresses to be more tolerable under slightly higher and longer exposure
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
yes, we feel the pressure waiting for the Mk1 flight report to be released but you can't rush these things. Hopefully next week we will know if the Mk2 mission is approved! Until then, read more about what happened this past week in our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=10366
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb & Bob have boarded MSV Aldeny with the capsule to sail offshore and begin working with recovery crews on capsule splashdown drills, from normal recovery to emergency operations. A float collar at the base inflates to keep it buoyant and upright for easy extraction
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
technicians do some final checks before the VAB empties for the weekend. Boosters are on, fin installation will continue through next week, payload is checked out & encapsulated. In the back is the fuel tank that was ordered late last month for Jeb's mission
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with Jeb & Bob carrying out recovery drills, launch drills and capsule sim runs Val & Bill have time in their relatively light CapCom workload to take on some additional training in the centrifuge. Val says she hates just sitting inside & wants to practice actions under load too
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb & Bob have been spending more & more time in the capsule lately as their mission nears, working through the standard script of procedures & emergency events based on previous flights. By next month FD Lanalye will be able to get creative again in her attempts to "kill" them
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
K2-X engine for Specialist Bob's mission in April has been delivered for final inspection, along with static fire testing next month. This is the 2nd of 3 arriving in this first quarter of the year, with 3 more in Q3 that should hold us until the new lifter engine is completed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VAB has already moved on, getting ready for our next launches in March. Jeb's Ascension Mk1 is going to start getting its fins on this week while the Progeny Mk7-B upper stage nears completion to await its booster. Capsule RCS installed & awaits integration w/ heat shield and LES
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb & Bob have begun launch drills now that the pad is clear again, using an Ascension Mk1 mock-up with the backup capsule. They go through everything from suit-up to ingress to mounting to emergency egress, etc. This week will conclude pre-launch drills
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Captain Jeb will get his second chance to go to space next month! Mission has gotten its final approval, launch date has been decided for 3/11 @ 14:40 UTC. More information on the mission can be found at the Ops Tracker - ops.kerbalspace.agency
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
🎆🎉🎊🎇
Also, now all the parties
🎆🎉🎊🎇
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mk1 flight crew have begun a final week of intensive sim training that also involves the entire launch control team. Flight Director Lanalye very much enjoys this last training segment as she works to come up with all sorts of scenarios to attempt to "kill" the crew
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the K2-X engine for Spc Bob's mission had a successful static fire out on the vertical test stand today. We continue to target an early April launch to get our last astronaut aboard a rocket and have a space ribbon pinned on them afterwards
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
tickets are going fast for this upcoming launch that will see kerbals returning to space! There will be no VIP visitors and all viewing sites at KSC will be available. As always the non-ticketed areas are first-come first-serve and overflow will be held at the Support Village
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
final integration of Jeb's Mk1 is underway today & tomorrow. Although the new fins are both lighter and cheaper his rocket will sport the older ones as the first use of the newer ones actually replaced these, so we had them as spares & sub-orbital ascent profile is steep
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
as mission training nears a close Flight Director Lanalye has commented that she's pleased to see Jeb & Bob getting along better now, although there have still been a few instances where Jeb's sense of humor bordered on inappropriate twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtr…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
once again Jeb comes out of sim training with the most mission successes. He says he wishes he and Val were a permanent crew pairing so they could go head to head more often (Jeb is Val's backup in the rotation). Bob may have lagged, but still learned from all his mistakes
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
everything continues to look good for Cpt Jeb's mission next week, also learn more about the new WildCat-V lifter engine and the recently-announced Progeny MK7-B mission in our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=10750 - a good weekend to all!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb & Bob are both in quarantine, sequestered in the Astronaut Complex and visited only by the medical staff, who are collecting baseline readings and making sure both remain in good health and are getting enough rest. They haven't taken away any of Jeb's games yet tho
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although the flight crew is quarantined inside the Astronaut Complex they are not simply confined to quarters. This is a dedicated section adjacent to the medical wing which also has a viewing room to allow friends & family to talk to the crew before their mission
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerbin Weather Society called for a flight to investigate a gathering storm out on the Kerblantic but with Jeb in quarantine and no additional flight crew to assist Val we had to tell them to send the crew out from Sheltered Rock instead. Good thing we own our aircraft...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the doctors finally had to take away Jeb's video games - not because he wasn't getting enough sleep but his stress levels were staying quite high. He's a bit of an angry gamer... Bob in contrast has been working on his meditation twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtr…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Ascension Mk1 passed load checks last week and was put back to horizontal for final checks consisting of a 26-page closeout process that was finished today for tomorrow's launch readiness review. It has been loaded up onto the carry vehicle to prepare for tomorrow's rollout
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our recovery ship MSV Aldeny, docked in Umbarg, has begun the ~30hr journey out to the planned landing zone. Given how close we were with Val's landing, we hope launch modeling improvements means we get a much better shot of Jeb's capsule descending under chutes this time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KWS has dispatched another flight from Sheltered Rock as the storm out to sea continues to develop. Not sure at this time whether or not it will head our way but if so it could disrupt our launch plans. They will be keeping us informed of the data that is collected
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's the crack o' dawn and the Ascension Mk1 is on its way to the launch pad, where it will be erected and later today tanked up as part of the wet dress rehearsal as final steps are taken today to prepare the Space Center for launch tomorrow!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
upon the pod you can see 1 of 2 radial parachutes that will provide triple redundancy. Main chutes have never failed & can land the capsule with only 2/3 deployed but radials can be used in partial main failure or even in complete main failure 1 is enough twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtr…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
wet dress rehearsal was good and identified a minor valve issue in the GSE that will be rectified by tomorrow so no hold up for launch. Although propellants are stable tanks have been drained so the rocket can be lowered again for crew loading
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerblantic storm is growing and heading in our direction. Models show it could swing wide - we won't have a better idea until early tomorrow so we've pushed the launch back to the next day cycle, now targeting lift off at 20:42 UTC. All other launch aspects are GO!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
🌅Sunrise/Sunset🌄
@ KSC (UTC-4)
3/11
#2🌄07:45:21 🌅09:55:41
#3🌄13:46:12 🌅15:56:32 ??🚀??
#4🌄19:47:03 🌅21:57:23
3/12
#1🌄01:47:54 🌅03:58:14
@ KSC (UTC-4)
3/11
#2🌄07:45:21 🌅09:55:41
#3🌄13:46:12 🌅15:56:32 ??🚀??
#4🌄19:47:03 🌅21:57:23
3/12
#1🌄01:47:54 🌅03:58:14
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
latest report from the KWS shows that we will likely get hit by the outer bands of the storm so launch has been delayed further until tomorrow, now targeting lift off @ 15:45 UTC. Further delays are possible - we will see what happens with the weather later today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
storm has blown past, not over. Weather for tomorrow is looking 90% GO. Final readiness reports were reviewed & approved by @DKerman_KSA. Crew remains healthy & Jeb is chomping at the bit. Launch prep begins tomorrow @ 10:35 UTC if weather conditions hold
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the flight crew are being roused from bed, will be given their choice breakfast and then proceed to get suited up. They aren't the only ones up super early - weather team is out to release a high-altitude balloon and pad crew is heading out to lower the rocket
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5h10m] weather balloon released earlier shows upper level atmospheric conditions to be within limits, surface forecast remains 90% GO. Rocket is back horizontal and capsule is awaiting crew ingress. Here is today's launch timeline, expect updates at each milestone
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h57m] crew shuttle departed on schedule 3 min ago and is now passing Launch Control on its way to the pad with Jeb aboard. Bob will remain in the Astronaut Complex suited up and ready to replace Jeb at any time. According to Jeb that time would be "over my dead body!"
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
🌅Sunrise/Sunset🌄
@ KSC (UTC-4)
3/12
#2🌄07:48:45 🌅09:59:05 !!🚀!!
#3🌄13:49:36 🌅15:59:56
#4🌄19:50:27 🌅22:00:47
3/13
#1🌄01:51:18 🌅04:01:38
@ KSC (UTC-4)
3/12
#2🌄07:48:45 🌅09:59:05 !!🚀!!
#3🌄13:49:36 🌅15:59:56
#4🌄19:50:27 🌅22:00:47
3/13
#1🌄01:51:18 🌅04:01:38
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h41m] crew loading underway a few minutes late - FD Lanalye had given the pad crew special instructions to *not* allow Jeb to climb up on the rocket again. After his attempts were foiled he then refused to pose for a new photo and began to climb into the capsule
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h20m] back on track as capsule hatch is sealed and pad crew begins to raise the rocket back to vertical for remounting. Bill is at the pad plugged into the capsule to maintain contact with Jeb during the process, as capsule comms to Launch Control are not yet online
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h40m] rocket mounting proceeding well, Flight Director Lanalye's A team of launch controllers is now assembling for final mission briefing. Like past kerbed flights, Jeb's mission will primarily be to measure physical response to 0G & re-entry forces
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb's rocket is using the old-style fins but they are also the newer lighter versions, so his rocket masses 59kg less than Val's. It's amazing how much difference that can make, his ascent profile required completely different angle & power settings to still land near Ockr Relay
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h10m] remounting was successful & w/o issue allowing the launch team to begin preflight operations, waking up the capsule computer and onloading flight instructions, including a new comms protocol (bit.ly/AFCS_ChangeLog) Jeb also has work to do setting up manual controls
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h55m] we have a GO to begin tanking operations. Monolith chilldown in effect, no change to atmospheric pressure. Launch Escape System is armed & Jeb actually knows from past experience that if the tank happens to blow up he'll be safe from harm
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h40m] tanking ops wrapped up on schedule and rocket is now 7t heavier with liquid fuel & oxidizer, bringing its total mass to 10.814t. Preflight operations are now continuing while the pad crew moves back in to clean up and prepare to lock down the launch site
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
"Rolling left. Check?"
"Check"
"Pitching up. Check?"
"Check"
....
call/response continues between Jeb & the pad crew as he manipulates the manual controls & they confirm movement. Rocket may operate under automated control but the kerb aboard still has plenty of preflight tasks
"Check"
"Pitching up. Check?"
"Check"
....
call/response continues between Jeb & the pad crew as he manipulates the manual controls & they confirm movement. Rocket may operate under automated control but the kerb aboard still has plenty of preflight tasks
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h55m] another planned pad evacuation underway as preflight moves into engine and ignition checks. So far issues board remains clear, valve problem from earlier this week has been fixed. Jeb is now out of things to do except chit-chat with Bill on CapCom
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h30m] preflight wrapping up on schedule with 0 issues, rocket is healthy & ready to go! Launch site lockdown underway for final evacuation as Range Safety Officer begins final check with the SkyWatch team of the waters and airspace surrounding KSC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
checking in with MSV Aldeny out in the recovery zone and in range of Ockr Relay they confirm weather and sea conditions remain good for splashdown. We're still evaluating ascent accuracy and whether for future missions to have a land target to use in event of rough seas
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-45m] launch rehearsal is underway to uncover any final issues that may have evaded the teams during preflight. Launch site is locked down & cleared of all vehicles except for the small tanker truck carrying the nitrogen pressurization gas
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] Kat & her weather team confirm surface conditions remain green throughout our daytime launch window & we have a GO to enter into final countdown! Launch control resetting after a clean rehearsal to link back up with the live rocket. Jeb is humming contently to himself
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] RSO has confirmed airspace is clear out to our 20km exclusion zone & ascent corridor over the water is empty of vessels. Rocket Flight Termination System is ACTIVE, engine ignition ARMED. Jeb's heart rate slightly elevated as he rapidly taps his foot. Impatience, he says
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-13m] late onload of pressurization gas underway. Modifications made to the upper liquid fuel bulkhead moved the nitrogen tanks up higher and necessitated that we also raise the capsule up a bit as well, creating a small enshrouded interstage gap
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill is walking Jeb through a final suit integrity check followed by the switch over to internal capsule life support ahead of terminal countdown. Controllers are glued to their monitors, making final checks as well in prep for FD Lanalye to conduct final general GO/NO GO polls
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] Wx: GO; Range: GO; Flight: GO; Tracking Station: GO; Downrange Tracking: GO; Recovery: GO; Ops Director @DKerman_KSA: Launch permission granted! 🚀GO ASCENSION🚀 FTS power internal, service tower boom unlocked for retraction, AFCS ready for terminal count
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3m] prelim fuel tank pressurization underway to increase rigidity & allow the rocket to stand on its own atop the engine support clamp once the service tower boom swings away in the next minute. Jeb will call out his own GO shortly to confirm he is prepped for terminal count
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-2m] all remains GO as we enter terminal countdown, AFCS has assumed control of the rocket, service boom detached & capsule now on internal power, life support and RF comms. EC drain being monitored and comm checks underway. Jeb has tasks to keep him occupied up to launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-1m] tune into the Ops Tracker now if you're not already! ops.kerbalspace.agency primary poll at T-30s coming up & real-time ascent telemetry should load shortly after that. Here is the final automated event sequence prior to launch:
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[ABORT] AFCS threw an automated hold just before lift off when it did not detect proper launch thrust setting. RSO is working with Jeb to safe the rocket while controllers take a close look at the telemetry data to determine whether this is an issue that can be overcome w/o scrub
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket engine is safed, clock reset to L-5min. Jeb is of course frustrated & altho rocket would have still gone upwards at launch w/1.18 TWR, failure to set thrust properly could mean it also doesn't throttle up enough later in flight to make it to space, which would be a waste
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no one is finding anything unusual in the data leading up to lift off so we will try again. K2-X cannot be relit in flight but on the ground we can restart it as many times as needed. If this 2nd attempt fails tho launch will be scrubbed for a more detailed engine investigation
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
work is underway to reboot the flight computer & reload op code to make sure that wasn't an issue. Lift off now targeted for 16:15 UTC. This is one of the faster launch recycles that controllers will have to perform but FD Lanalye is confident in her team's training
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] once again back to general polls, all GO. Rocket is rearmed for ignition & AFCS is back to waiting for terminal count. Everything will proceed as before (except pressurization, already completed) and hopefully this time the engine will perform as expected
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-2m] back in terminal count, AFCS once again has control. Power levels have continued to drop since first terminal count but we still have enough battery life to give this another shot. Fuel usage from 1st attempt won't have any large impact on ascent plans
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-1m] final 30s polls coming up, same automated sequence will follow as before. If you are tuned into the Ops Tracker keep a close eye on the telemetry data - it does show current TWR!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[ABORT] "NOOOOOOOOOO!" came Jeb's holler over the comms, followed by banging noises, as he felt the rumble of the engine subside. AFCS has still failed to detect proper lift off thrust and we will have to unfortunately scrub today's launch & rollback for a good look at the engine
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we got Jeb calmed down, rocket is once again safed, including FTS & LES. We have to rehook the service boom to drain propellants before the rocket can be lowered so Jeb will have to stew out there for a while yet. At least hookup means he has continuous power for climate control
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
propellant drainback has been completed, service arm will now be swung away again so the rocket can be lowered for Jeb to egress from the capsule and head back to the Astronaut Complex. He and Bob will remain in quarantine until a decision is made on the next launch attempt
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch activities are complete, a frustrated Jeb is back in the AC, rocket is back in the VAB and MSV Aldeny is making for port in Sheltered Rock. Ascension team will convene tomorrow to discuss options for another attempt to allow time for initial engine inspection
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
medical team gave Jeb his games back while he remains stuck in quarantine. Although they tend to get him a bit worked up at times, better than having him depressed thinking about the continued setbacks in his attempts to get up into space
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
still no diagnosis on Jeb's engine, but luckily we don't have to wait for one because the engine for Bob's flight is tested and ready. Lead Engineer Simon says they can swap it for another launch attempt next week, now targeting lift off on 3/20 @ 16:15 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a bummer that we were unable to return to kerbed space flight this week but heads are up and looking forward to next week's attempt! More on that and everything else that transpired this week in our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=10765
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the flight crew have physical exercises from the medical team as well as textbook training to keep them busy & tip-top this week. Flight Director Lanalye is keeping her controllers on task as well, with more drills scheduled all the way up to roll-out later this week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the crew capsule for our high-G centrifuge at the Umbarg HQ has been modified with a mock up of flight controls so the astronaut's next mission training can allow them to practice actions under G load rather than (or in addition to) just simply trying to remain conscious
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Engineer Simon reports the engine for Jeb's rocket developed a bad fuel flow sensor in the time between static fire and launch. They will replace the part, seek higher quality from the manufacturer, and have the engine ready again for Bob's mission in April
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with more time now before the mission launches, Jeb has implored the design team to see if they can't go back & squeeze out a bit more altitude so he can break Val's records. Ascension project management declined the ascent review, saying mission is locked twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtr…
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
once again @DKerman_KSA received launch readiness reports, reviewed them and gave the GO for tomorrow's launch attempt! Weather forecast is 80% GO with surface winds off the water being the main concern. If winds aloft are also looking good, pre-launch ops will begin @ 11:05 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
🌅Sunrise/Sunset🌄
@ KSC (UTC-4)
3/20
#2🌄08:15:57 🌅10:26:17 !!🚀!!
#3🌄14:16:48 🌅16:27:08
#4🌄20:17:39 🌅22:27:59
3/21
#1🌄02:18:30 🌅04:28:50
@ KSC (UTC-4)
3/20
#2🌄08:15:57 🌅10:26:17 !!🚀!!
#3🌄14:16:48 🌅16:27:08
#4🌄20:17:39 🌅22:27:59
3/21
#1🌄02:18:30 🌅04:28:50
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h20m] crew loading was without issue. Jeb is aboard while Bob waits in the Astronaut Complex. Rocket is being raised back to vertical for mounting and tanking. Flight briefing will be underway soon and there are no changes from last week: twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtr…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h30m] pre-launch ops continuing without issue, preparing now to send up the second weather balloon for a final check of upper-level conditions. Winds are picking up on the surface but trending within expected limits. Jeb's latest comment is "can we get going already?"
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] final general polling has come back GO from all stations! Jeb is switching his suit over to internal capsule systems while the FTS does the same. Rocket fuel tanks will soon add pressure for rigidity to prep for service boom retraction. A hush falls over the crowd outside
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-2m] "GO! GO! GO!" yelled Jeb over the comms when asked for his status to move into terminal count, a play on the other word we do *not* want to hear called out three times at any point in the next two minutes. Capsule power internal, comms RF. EC monitoring active
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-1m] back to the final seconds once again. Flight surgeon reports Jeb's heart rate is elevated as expected, no doubt as he asks himself - "can this finally be happening??" Tune in now to find out live if T-30s polls are GO via streaming telemetry: ops.kerbalspace.agency
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
LIFT OFF of the 12th Ascension Mk1 carrying Captain Jebediah up on his first trip into space! As the rocket clears the tower guidance will enable, throttle will push up to and hold 1.5 TWR. Once Jeb stops laughing maniacally he should begin calling out instrument readings
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
smooooth flight so far, engine performance nominal. Guidance right on track. Telemetry is dropping in & out but Jeb's calling out good instrument readings, all systems nominal. Rocket is through MaxQ and about to go supersonic, where the ride could start getting a little bumpy
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb says he's "loving the real deal" as flight continues into the upper-atmosphere w/ only minor "roll-shake" turbulence. Thrust is <50% but pitch authority remains nominal. Passing above 30km Jeb will soon get a kick as the engine throttles to full @ 40km ASL in the next minute
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MECO 3km short of target altitude, rocket is a bit shallow on ascent with an apokee of 206km instead of 239km as planned. Capsule has been released & will push away on RCS thrust, then Jeb will flip over to look back at lifter & confirm good sep and increasing distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
LES push motors were triggered from within the capsule shortly after RCS push, increasing apokee to 244km. This was *not* a planned or approved action & FD Lanalye is turning purple. Jeb is actually trying to convince her that he accidentally bumped the (covered) switch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb is unstrapped & floating in 0G, taking photos out the capsule window. Flight surgeon says all vitals are nominal. Lanalye is still livid but at this point in the mission there is no other need for the LES' alternate backup uses & splashdown zone shifted by only ~20km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
and Jeb continues to not earn any points today when he refuses the suggestion to decouple the LES tower, saying he finds the extra effort to maneuver the capsule makes it easier to control. That is within his purview, however, as capsule commander. Coming up on apokee in <30s
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with awe in his voice Jeb says he just witnessed a beautiful sight watching Mun set, although that's really from his capsule falling back down and now passing through 200km he has to reluctantly leave the window and begin preparations for re-entry
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
without causing any more hassle Jeb has the capsule prepped for re-entry, heat shield facing forward & LES decoupled. He will also place the capsule into a roll to help ensure the radial chutes do not get cooked. He's been looking forward to this - the centrifuge can't sim it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
blazing through the atmosphere now, we expect plasma blackout to occur at any second (ops.kerbalspace.agency will show it happening) and last up to 30-60s, after which we should get confirmation of chutes popping. Descent profile at reentry was nominal
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
cheers & applause in Launch Control as Jeb contacts us to confirm chute deploy! Chutes are reefed & continue to decelerate him but the worst is over, similar to Val he dealt with +10G (11.2 max) for 6 seconds. MSV Aldeny hasn't had much time to get underway but are <30min out
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
full chute deployment, confirmed by MSV Aldeny ~20km away able to full-frame it this time with a telephoto lens as capsule drifts down at ~6m/s in the soft glow of sunset. Flotation collar is armed & heat shield will be dumped just before hitting the water
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
SPLASHDOWN! Welcome home to our latest space voyager - Captain Jeb! While his rash action failed at allowing him to break Val's records for altitude & duration as he'd hoped, leaving him slightly unsatisfied, he readily admits the experience was still worth it.✨🎉 Kerzzah! 🎊✨
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb has confirmed he is afloat, capsule is not sinking nor taking on water. While he can unstrap & stand on the seat to stretch a bit he'll have to wait for MSV Aldeny to haul him out of the water before he can exit the capsule. Taking a swim is for emergencies only. Even for him
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
sun has set but the capsule has been recovered w/o issue thx to night exercises as part of standard mission training. Here's a photo Jeb took while waiting. Photos from space will also be released in the coming days. Congrats to all the teams on another successful kerbed mission!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb was just congratulated personally over radio by the Presider and will also get a chance to be honored in person when MSV Aldeny docks in Sheltered Rock tomorrow, now making best speed out of the recovery zone after also tracking down and collecting the heat shield
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
after extensive examination Jeb was given a clean bill of health & released by the medical team at Sheltered Rock. He'll be sharing a meal with the Presider today, has another engagement tomorrow & then will be traveling back to KSC next week after some well-earned personal time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today Jeb got a hero's parade in his home cavern of Ockr. In his public address he spoke of how beautiful and pristine Kerbin looked from above and how he hopes the efforts to recolonize the surface that are gaining more & more momentum work to ensure it stays that way
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Capsule photos from Jeb's mission!
1) Looking back towards KSC, now covered by clouds that moved in shortly after launch
2) Looking towards splashdown zone from apokee
3) Mun setting
4) Looking south from ~160km
1) Looking back towards KSC, now covered by clouds that moved in shortly after launch
2) Looking towards splashdown zone from apokee
3) Mun setting
4) Looking south from ~160km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
altho Jeb's actions did not endanger the mission, Flight Director Lanalye & @DKerman_KSA agree that he should be reprimanded. Lanalye wanted to kick him out of a rotation *and* make him ineligible for 1st in orbit, but Drew has decided he only loses the chance to be 1st in orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here's a better look at Mun setting from Captain Jeb's mission. Breathtaking! The redness comes from light bending through the atmosphere, seen as just a thin layer of protectiveness. Really puts things in perspective
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a tough decision has been made. The Kerbal Space Agency will be suspending launch operations for at least the next two months while we reassess Ascension & Progenitor program management. More details in this press release from @DKerman_KSA: kerbalspace.agency/?p=10854
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
TL;DR - several recent minor oversights both in the rocketry & aircraft programs have begun to worry upper management that we are on course to make a catastrophic error in a future mission. Time to slow down before a major oversight occurs with horrible consequences
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Captain Jeb has returned to KSC after staying to visit friends and family in Ockr. He's now prepping to dive into mission training/operations review next week with the rest of the crew. No doubt his antics on the recent mission will be a subject of hot debate
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
things will be slowing down for a while, but we do expect to clear out the backlog quickly starting Jun/Jul to remain as close as possible to our projections made at the start of the year. We waited to hear of more Chikelu news but nothing yet kerbalspace.agency/?p=10850
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
first major hurdle of our Ascension program reassessment is out of the way with the flight analysis for Jeb's mission now published. Despite the mass issue, several new mission aspects saw positive results & puts us in a good position to move forward: kerbalspace.agency/?p=10884
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
final major hurdle in getting back to rocket flight has been cleared with the full review & analysis of the orbital Kerbin I mission completed kerbalspace.agency/?p=10905 Now Progenitor & Ascension teams will spend May on upcoming mission plans
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
while we haven't yet decided when to enact it, a formal program for astronaut crew training was finalized this past month by our existing crew & the Ascension program administration. @DKerman_KSA has just signed off on it and we look forward to one day welcoming our first kadets!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
events late last week postponed our bi-weekly Ops Summary to allow us to share better details, unfortunately the news from USI is not good & has temporarily suspended Progeny launches. Ascension looking better, but still behind sched. More details: kerbalspace.agency/?p=10993
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're ramping rocket operations back up! Sadly Progenitor remains sidelined but Ascension is free to fly and we have three launches in the queue:
6/23 @ TBD - Mk1 (unkerbed)
7/16 @ TBD - Mk1 (Spc Bob)
TBD August - Mk2
Save the dates! More details in the coming days 🚀✨
6/23 @ TBD - Mk1 (unkerbed)
7/16 @ TBD - Mk1 (Spc Bob)
TBD August - Mk2
Save the dates! More details in the coming days 🚀✨
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
not only have the astronauts not slacked off in their training these last few months, they've been forging ahead on plans & ideas for how to prepare for extended stays in space - right now being conservative at just a few days, maybe a week tops. Capsules are tiny!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
work is all set to resume in the VAB next week. Progeny Mk7-B assembly atop the 4 boosters will continue while we await launch permission. This month's rocket just needs to be stacked for final closeouts. Bob's ride still has a lot of prep for next month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our recovery ship MSV Aldeny has made the ~900km journey started Wednesday from its berth in Sheltered Rock, from Jeb's recovery, to port in Umbarg. Over the weekend it will engage in drills offshore here at KSC to get the crew back up to speed for capsule recovery
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with rocketry programs ramping back up we're switching back to the weekly Ops Summary format to make sure you get all the infos. If you think you may have missed anything or want more expansive details on out operations, check it out - kerbalspace.agency/?p=11043
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
earlier at 2nd sunrise crews began to arrive at the launch pad to lower the rocket for late cargo onload of the Mystery Goo samples. It's not just a volatility issue, the samples are also radioactive & thus would have been a minor hazard to pad crew during rollout/WDR yesterday
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
even though there is practically no room inside the capsule, Bob has still often joked the past couple of days that Jeb's whereabouts should be constantly monitored so that he wouldn't be able to sneak aboard for an extra ride into space
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
everyone is already looking forward to sending the last of our crew up into space and now the mission details are available on the Ops Tracker: ops.kerbalspace.agency. The timing of this mission could let Bob see something from space no kerbal has seen before
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this was an exciting week, make sure you didn't miss anything by check out our weekly Ops Summary on the website, where we have some speculation on the USI sale. We hope everyone has a relaxing weekend! kerbalspace.agency/?p=11062
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the mock capsule is out the Kerblantic this week as MSV Aldeny works through more recovery drills but this time with primary crew Specialist Bob and backup crew Specialist Bill. Different protocols are obviously in effect here, like actually caring if the capsule is sinking...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
If they can get out in time, their pressurized suit can help keep them afloat
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Mk1-A capsule was stacked atop the lifter stage earlier today in the VAB so the rocket can undergo load checks & ensure the decoupler/interstage shroud are properly manufactured. Then the rocket will be lowered horizontal for final close outs to complete by Friday
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today kicked off with a kerbolar eclipse, and Mun's shadow raced across the KSC like as seen in this photo from 2017. Another eclipse will happen on 7/16 and the shadow of Mun will cross the Kerblantic underneath Bob's capsule as he views it from above for the first time ever!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
while Bob's mission was able to be scheduled initially to coincide with the eclipse, that is not the primary mission goal and if there are any launch delays Bob has made it clear he will not be spending an extra 3 days in quarantine until the next eclipse
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob's Ascension Mk1 was closed out today and loaded up on the carry vehicle. The crew also finished their last run of sim training. There were a few sim deaths, but FD Lanalye had to come up with some seriously out-there failure scenarios to kill either of them
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
Specialists Bob & Bill have both been settled into quarantine in the Astronaut Complex, where they will be monitored by medical teams while relaxing after their vigorous training. Not just to prevent sickness, also to get a good baseline medical reading prior to spaceflight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
medical team reports the crew remain healthy and are sleeping well. They usually take this time to work on personal projects. Bill is building a simple radio receiver that will let kerblings hear Kerbin II while Bob works on coding a new integrator with our astrodynamics team
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with WDR already completed earlier this week we will not be rolling the rocket out to the launch pad until tomorrow, so the crew can be loaded prior to it being raised up and mounted. VAB workers are instead taking the opportunity to give it another final look-over
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
crew have had their final pre-mission visit with family, Katgan forecasts 75% favorable weather & all other launch readiness reports have been reviewed & signed off on by @DKerman_KSA. We are 🚀 GO 🚀 for launch attempt tomorrow! Pre-launch ops begin @ 11:54 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
🌅Sunrise/Sunset🌄
@ KSC (UTC-4)
7/16
#2🌄08:56:17 🌅11:06:39 !!🚀!!
#3🌄14:57:08 🌅17:07:30
#4🌄20:57:59 🌅23:08:21
7/17
#1🌄02:58:50 🌅05:09:12
@ KSC (UTC-4)
7/16
#2🌄08:56:17 🌅11:06:39 !!🚀!!
#3🌄14:57:08 🌅17:07:30
#4🌄20:57:59 🌅23:08:21
7/17
#1🌄02:58:50 🌅05:09:12
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5h10m] meteorologist Katgan has upgraded her weather forecast to 85% favorable based on more recent data so we have the GO to kick off the launch timeline. Crew has already woken, eaten their choice breakfast & are finishing suit up. Further updates to come @ these milestones
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5h] the rocket has already left for the pad & now Specialist Bob is on his way to join it w/ the rest of the launch site crew. Tanker truck is getting fueled up to head over a bit later as well. Bill will remain suited up on standby in the ready room at the Astronaut Complex
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h45m] capsule hatch is open, crew loading has begun. Climbing from the crew van, Bob gave Val a big hug then started up the ramp. When asked to pose for a new photo he just kept on walking saying "I'm getting right on in this thing while I'm still feeling good about it"
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h20m] crew load complete on schedule, capsule hatch is sealed. Val has plugged in for CapCom in case any issues arise inside while the rocket is raised and mounted. Visitor busing has begun to depart from the Support Village so viewers can pick out their spots
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h20m] rocket is vertical and pad crews are finalizing mounting. Meanwhile in Launch Control the A team is gathering for a final briefing from Flight Director Lanalye. Bob's mission could be the longest space voyage yet and break Val's record of 11m2s. Flight overview:
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h10m] mounting was completed on schedule, Val is on her way back to LC while the pad crew is preparing to hook up the fuel truck. Controllers are on console, ground link to the capsule confirmed and startup procedures are under way. AFCS change log: github.com/KSAMissionCtrl…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h55m] rocket has been configured for tanking, LES is armed & GO has been given for onload of propellants to begin - 7t worth will flow into the lifter stage. Val is keeping Bob busy with the preflight checklist, which keeps his mind off the explosive potential beneath him
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h40m] rocket is now topped off and weighs in at 10.851t. Bob continues to work preflight with launch controllers while the pad crews move back in to get the tanker truck unhooked & moved out, GSE cleaned up, external valves closed, etc. Launch timeline continues on schedule
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h55m] Bob has completed his preflight checks, pad crew have secured the ground service equipment and are clearing out as controllers continue their preflight with checks on the engine & ignition systems. Issues board remains clear. Hi-alt KerBalloon being prepped for release
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h30m] preflight complete, no issues raised, rocket stands ready for launch! Pad crew moving back in to close out the launch site, remove mechanical launch safety devices. RSO is confirming with SkyWatch team airspace is clear as well as waters out under the launch corridor
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
flight surgeon reports Bob has peed his suit. This was expected, altho Jeb still jokes that he was surprised Bob didn't do it the first time out of terror. What happens? He gets a little wet but it'll dry alright and no important sensors are down there... twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtr…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-45m] pad has been locked down and evacuated for the final time, launch controllers and Bob getting ready to begin rehearsal protocols to ensure all systems are set & ready, nothing missed. Weather desk beginning to analyze data from balloon's early ascent
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] we are GO to continue into the final countdown sequence, events which will need to be repeated if a scrub occurs. Launch window is all day long - we will not stand down for the next eclipse in the event of a launch delay. Katgan says surface conditions are 100% favorable
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
careful attention being paid to Bob's vitals as we approach the end of countdown. He's spent the past year working on his anxiety. Val has helped him learn meditation & he says all the practice to get into a routine has made it easier to work through. Heart rate is steady!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-13m] a small tanker still hooked to the service tower is loading nitrogen aboard the rocket, which will in turn be used to pressurize the fuel tanks for flight, mainly for extra rigidity as engine burns non-stop. Late onload ensures safety of pad crew. Bob has LES
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Val uses a rare lull in final procedures to ask Bob how he's doing. There is a tense moment of silence. Then, "I don't know why I thought you could see me give a thumbs up". Crew-facing cameras in the Mk1-B capsule? We could do that...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] final general poll: all GO! Bob has switched to capsule life support & is undergoing final suit integrity check. Launch permission granted by Ops Director @DKerman_KSA. 🚀 GO ASCENSION! 🚀 FTS power internal, service arm unlocked to retract, AFCS rdy for terminal count
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-2m] Automated Flight Control System has assumed command, with Bob overseeing & controllers backing them both up. Boom has swung away to leave capsule on internal power/ECLSS & RF comms. Final checks of all systems underway, Bob is busy again to keep himself focused
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-1m] it's time to load the Ops Tracker if it's not already to watch live ascent tlm, which should load up after T-30s if final primary polls come back GO. The final automated sequence follows. Val excitedly tells Bob to "hold on tight & enjoy the ride!" ops.kerbalspace.agency
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ignition & launch thrust good - we have LIFTOFF! Spc Bob is finally on his way to space for the 1st time, outrunning the shadow of Mun as it passes over the KSC. Once clear of the towers, engine will kick up from ~70% to full thrust
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
WHOA. Okay, guidance issue. Rocket thinks its nominal tho so not auto LES. Tlm shows it *is* still under control w/o danger of flipping. Controllers have left abort decision up to Bob. Shaky response but nonetheless he says "push on push on!"
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bumpy ride is smoothing out, close eye kept on external temp as friction heats up. Throttle pull back to maintain 2.7 TWR ended at 40km to jam Bob back in his seat with 4G+. We will at least make it up to space - primary goal achieved!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
controllers are scrambling to plot Bob's new trajectory as he takes over control to begin orienting the capsule to get some good views out the window. Despite the guidance issue, we are still pleased at how well the rocket carried out the rest of the ascent
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill has already shucked his suit to be in Launch Control with everyone else to see how this plays out. Apokee in ~4min & Bob's flatter trajectory will take him well downrange. MSV Aldeny is already starting to move eastwards at best speed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
approaching apokee & discussion is still underway whether to use the LES to put the brakes on and bring the capsule down sooner, altho the steeper re-entry will put more Gs onto Bob, who is now floating around and saying he's getting a great view of Mun's shadow far down below
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
decision made to hold off on LES use. It's looking like Bob will come down right smack dab in the middle of this large island, which would be preferred over having him floating for hours in an open sea that could be rough. Val is telling Bob to begin re-entry prep
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob is strapped into his seat again for a rough ride back to Kerbin. Capsule is retrograde & LES jettison will occur shortly before re-entry in <1min. Capsule spun up to keep radial chutes cool. We don't expect to regain comms after plasma blackout. Good luck, Bob!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we had Bob calling out readings non-stop to make clear when comms dropped out. Now just static. The Aldeny is still several hours from the island but telemetry data prior to signal loss has everyone fairly confident that is indeed where he is coming down
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
capsule should now be descending slowly under ALL chutes - controllers recommended to Bob he pop the reserve radials as well even if the mains open to help make the landing softer since he will not be splashing down into the ocean. Heat shield will also be sacrificed to help
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob should have landed by now. If uninjured he can egress from the capsule on his own. He has 4 days of food and water in addition to the capsule for shelter, but there's no reason why we shouldn't find him later today as search & recovery operations kick off full force
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a Civvie volunteer has just departed from Ockr General to serve as relay messenger between us and the Aldeny as it sails over the horizon. It will also get to the island sooner to confirm Bob's status and location. Should be there & back w/in 2 hours. thx to public for support!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
✨🎉 KERZZAH!! 🎊✨ \[0_o]/ the Civvie has returned w/in range of Ockr relay to report Bob is indeed safely down, no injuries from landing in grassland area. MSV Aldeny is still about 2-3 hours away. Capsule is reportedly well inland, so it will need to be recovered separately
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Civvie has been relieved by another pilot with her personal craft & it remains circling offshore to relay comms over the horizon. The Aldeny has arrived and made contact with Bob, who has been working towards the shore, performing various surface observations along the way
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it was a ~22km hike from his capsule to the shore but Bob made it okay - all that wilderness survival training finally coming in handy. Aldeny crew was there to greet him, he's now heading aboard to sail back to Sheltered Rock. They will arrive in port tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob is only a little more than halfway through the sea journey back to Sheltered Rock but airship recovery of the capsule is already completed. Here is a photo he took of the landing site. Space photos will need add'l processing but we hope to release them today too
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here's the first time we've ever seen Mun's shadow from space! First photo taken ~140km & second at apokee over Sheltered Rock @ 294km. Note the land seen to the right of img1 extends into the shadow & contains KSC but it gets too dark to see it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we hope everyone else had as good a week as we did! Although yesterday's mission concludes kerbed space flight for 2020, we have details on upcoming Ascension missions in our weekly Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=11107
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Aldeny has pulled into port at Sheltered Rock and Bob will be given a full medical exam tomorrow. Capsule is still there as well and will be shipped the rest of the way back to KSC for post-flight inspection next week. This was its second flight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although it did not travel as high as planned, Bob's flight still managed to pull ahead of all Val's sub-orbital 2019 bit.ly/KSARecords & also set a new record for longest downrange distance from which a sub-orbital vessel was successfully recovered ops.kerbalspace.agency/?body=Kerbin-S…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob has been given a clean bill of health, which is great news considering he blacked out for 24 seconds during the most punishing point of re-entry, which saw over 9G for nearly 10s, 4s of which was over 11G and nearly 12G. He's now heading back home to Kravass for some R&R
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've now sent all 4 of our crew up into space. To think that just over 3 years ago they were all only dreaming of the possibility. The Progeny Mk3 rocket seen launching in this photo still hadn't even made it to the upper atmosphere yet!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
one more photo from Bob's mission, one of the last few he took prior to returning to his seat for re-entry. Looking northeast, you can spot the aurora & also see the island he landed on just over the terminator. To the left far below is the mountain upon which sits Ockr Relay
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
to get an idea of just how much panic was caused by Bob's initial ascent (red) compare it to the trajectory he was supposed to fly (green). Had the rocket not recovered and shown to hold good AoA and keep nose at or above 45°, abort would have been triggered by controllers
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
back at KSC now, Bob enjoyed his time off and hero's parade through his home cavern of Kravass along with a phone call from the Presider. He's amped up to get working with the rest of the crew to prepare for a longer stay in space next year - orbit! (either him or Val to be 1st)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all 4 crew's sub-orbital re-entry profiles. Bill was 1st so most conservative. Val then Jeb were next, Bob's mission went the highest. Bob was the only one who blacked out - the final flight report will attempt to determine the cause. Bumps after max G are chute deployments
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the new capsule that will fly on the Ascension Mk3 has been finalized! The test article will arrive later this year to begin qualification and we hope it will carry a kerbal up into orbit by mid-late 2021. And beyond? No, just meant for LKO with only 1 day of life support
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Specialist Bob has submitted to rigorous medical testing this past week as physicians work to determine why he was the only one who blacked out on re-entry when centrifuge exercises showed he should have been able to handle the G load that was similar to Val & Jeb's returns
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronauts are at our Umbarg HQ to begin more runs in the centrifuge, carrying on over the next week as research continues to study the effects of high G loads during re-entry, now with even more data to apply from Bob's recent mission
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today is the first time KSC visitors can get an up-close look at the Ascension Mk1-A capsule that carried Bill & Val into space and saved Jeb with a pad abort. This is the first *actual* piece of flight hardware to be featured in our rocket garden
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the unkerbed capsule that flew 4 missions has been sent to the Air History Museum in Kravass, which will now have to be called the Air & Space History Museum! The other kerbed capsule that flew 2 missions will be retired as well but kept at KSC HQ in Umbarg for training use
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
get the details on Bob's harrowing journey up into space with the flight analysis report just published today: kerbalspace.agency/?p=11253 the rocket survived a punishing ascent and we came the closest we've been so far to losing a crew member in flight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
✨🎊 Happy Operational Anniversary KSA!! 🎉✨
🎂🎂🎂🎂
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
🎂🎂🎂🎂
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
mock-up of the new Mk1-B capsule has arrived so the astronauts can begin training on its use. It features a new digital display but remains mostly analogue and similar to the MK1-A controls for ease of transition. Capsule will not be performing missions more complex than Mk1-A
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new delivery from the rail depot - the Mk1-B capsule has arrived for its qualification trials. It's not meant to carry a kerbal into space, yet. Over the next two months it will undergo atmospheric testing & recovery then get shot off into space in 2021 if all goes well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our astronaut crew are keeping busy preparing for orbital missions. Now that the Mk1-B capsule is here they can also do a simple test - just sit in it as long as possible. We're still unsure as to whether being in 0g will make it easier or harder to stay inside for long periods
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
our crew have all spent several hours just sitting inside the Mk1-B capsule, fully suited. They all definitely think floating around, even in the limited space, will make things more tolerable - not to mention getting lost in the views out the window. Day or more? Jury still out
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Ascension Mk3 is looking 🤩 and has been finalized for preparation to begin launches in early 2021! It will carry probes to Mun, Minmus and even beyond the Kerbin system. It will carry crew into Low-Kerbin Orbit. Full resolution: flickr.com/gp/kerbal_spac…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
another long day of training wraps up for our crew, who have been busy familiarizing themselves with the Mk1-B capsule's new control layouts in the simulator while continuing to test the actual prototype under various emergency egress situations after landing/splashdown
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
our crew have returned from the wilderness excursion they set out on this past weekend. It was spent up on the mountains between Sheltered Rock & Ockr - freezing, snowy conditions that they don't want to find themselves in upon return from space, but are now prepared for in case
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mk1-B capsule has undergone recovery trials while already on the ground/water, now it's time to drop it out the back of a Dhumla and test actual chute deployment and landing/splashdown. This is done late in testing since it runs the highest risk of damaging the capsule
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
#OTD 2017 we were still mystified by this occurrence but now we have a better understanding thanks to the discovery of the radiation belts and how they interact with our atmosphere in conjunction with the kerbolar wind as a result of activity on the surface of our sun
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
of course the new knowledge also raises concerns regarding such events and the impact they may have on spacecraft and even surface colonies - we won't know more until a similar event occurs or until we get more instruments observing the sun, both on the ground & in space
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here is a closer look at the Mk1-B capsule that will fly atop the Ascension Mk3 to carry crew in LKO. It has more internal volume than the Mk1-A to accommodate expanded ECLSS to support the onboard astronaut properly on longer orbital missions. Also a slightly bigger window
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the flatter bottom will conform less to the heat shield but also leave more room for a set of airbags that can deploy to assist with emergency landings on terrain. These are in addition to the flotation collar already used on the Mk1-A for normal splashdowns
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the hatch on top allows for a secondary escape path if the main hatch gets stuck or opening it would take on water. Finally the corrugated paneling will better resist the heat of longer, shallower re-entry from orbit to allow us to reduce Gs on the crew
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
last year our crew logged a combined 30 missions, down from 56 the year before - such is the amount of time that has needed to be put into training for space flight! With Genesis shut down, all crew are now focused solely on orbital flight in 2021. Lots more training to go...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all our crew returned to duty yesterday, today they get right back into general training with the Mk1-B capsule & simulator as well as physical regimen, medical testing & centrifuge runs. These activities will be carried out over the next 2-3 months before mission training begins
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Tongjess & her crew are happy to once again assist our program, will take the astronauts & the Mk1-B capsule out to sea for recovery trials. This was done last year, but not with an occupied capsule. Astronauts likewise have trained capsule egress, but not actually at sea
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Q1 launch schedule now filled - save the dates! Additional info via our bit.ly/KSA_Programs page on the website (now with entries for the Mk3 & 8) or the bit.ly/Ops_Tracker. The Mk3, 1 & 8 missions are all pivotal in deciding how we move forward the rest of the year!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's time for our first Ops Summary of 2021 - are we two weeks into the new year already?? Learn more about what is in store for the first quarter of this year that will set the stage for the remainder of our planned operations - kerbalspace.agency/?p=11531
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
water recovery drills with the Mk1-B capsule have been successfully completed, neither the capsule nor crew were drowned in the process - which sounds like a joke but is actually a real possibility. As we say - "going to space is dangerous, but so is training to go to space"!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mk1-B capsule testing has concluded and it is now in the VAB for a final structural check. After that careful inspection it will get stripped down on the inside and outfitted with all the sensors and equipment needed for its sub-orbital test flight in March
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
kerzzah! ✨🥂 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
as confident as we feel about getting a kerbal up into orbit this year, it helps to remember that we first said we were going to make it happen almost 2 years ago now. Space is challenging and despite setbacks (Mk1 not being able to make orbit) we push on! twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtr…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our crew are training hard every day with barely any free time but unlike past launches where they've worked it into their sched as available they are making sure not to miss this one despite delays. They are psyched to see their future ride head to space! twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtr…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
if you missed anything important these past two weeks that is not Ascension Mk3 related you can find more info on these events in our Ops Summary, including Ascension Mk3 info. If weather cooperates, prelaunch will kick off tomorrow @ 13:38 UTC! kerbalspace.agency/?p=11606
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our crew did not miss the launch and are excited to one day ride this rocket up into orbit. Several years ago they didn't know for sure if they'd even get to take a ride up into space yet! The final frontier is broadening bit by bit...
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
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
