This endeavor to launch a rocket from an aircraft unsurprisingly took a long time to come to fruition given the complex nature of the mission. Also unsurprising is who thought up the idea. 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
now here is a neat way to launch a rocket to space. Maybe we will try this out someday
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb was hanging out in the VAB earlier & noticed we still have 2 Mk1-B boosters. He casually mentioned to Simon launching 1 from the Civvie
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
initially scoffing at the idea, Simon reports he has since started to give it some serious consideration given no Mk4 flights until July...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Simon casually mentioned Jeb's idea to Drew who was like "hahahah- wait you're serious?" Simon admitted he still wasn't sure about it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after talking w/Progenitor engineers Simon has agreed to un-retire the Mk1-B & go forward w/Jeb's idea of an airborne rocket launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
however, a fully-assembled Mk1-B will not fit underneath the Civvie, so the one now being prepped will eventually be used with the Deuce
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a few workers & technicians staying late to wrap up Mk1-B structural work. Payload integration tomorrow, just batteries & an MCU
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
despite the recent setback for the Deuce, closeout work proceeding on the Mk1-B. It will standby for use whenever the Deuce is ready for it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
another busy week wraps up here at KSC. Even if you saw it all, additional info almost always included in our bit.ly/OpsSummary6-12…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Genesis have confirmed they are still in talks with Progenitor and KerBalloon to eventually attempt to launch a Mk1-B and deploy a balloon off the top of the Deuce sometime in these next few months
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
plans still remain for Genesis and Progenitor teams to work together to launch a Progeny Mk1-B off the back of a Deuce to see what the potential gains would be for starting off at altitude. Mission could occur as early as next month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Deuce is rolled out & ready for her mission tomorrow. A newly developed booster camera meant for the Ascension Mk1 has been mounted on the roof, facing the tail, to check out its capabilities. It will also be used to monitor the future tests of rocket launches off the aircraft
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ted & Aldy will begin their Genesis duties in full this week, working with Progenitor engineers to get the Deuce outfitted for captive carry of the Progeny Mk1-B and building the mission flight profile for release testing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
final closeouts are underway for the Mk1-B being put together over in a corner of the VAB before it's sent over to the HAB for mounting. If all goes well the captive carry/release test could happen next week on 6/21
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today marked the end of our 6th trip around Kerbol since KSA operations began back in late 2016. ✨🎉 Kerzzah! 🎊✨ Here's to yet another awesome Kerbolar year in space exploration! 🥂
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/OpSummary6-11-… has all the info you need to stay on top of all that is going on, with additional details that are too verbose for tweets during the week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have ignition of all 5 boosters and lift off! 140kN of thrust produces just over 6Gs of force - this plus the extra batteries near the nose should keep the rocket pointed downrange. Radial boosters will detach after just 5.5 seconds, burning fuel at 11kg/s
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although they stopped work to watch the launch, Genesis crew continued today to prep the Deuce for flight - unfortunately an accident occurred when mating the rocket to the aircraft. Both have been damaged but no one was hurt. Assessment still underway to determine how bad it is
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
damage report from Lead Engineer Simon is that both the aircraft and the rocket combined will require about 1.5 weeks for repairs, thankfully no damage was serious enough to require any rebuilding. Ted & Aldy both bummed to have their first mission delayed
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
Lead Engineer Simon confirms that repairs to the Deuce and Progeny Mk1-B are proceeding better than expected. They will have a solid idea by mid next week when they can make another attempt at flying the two together
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all the parts are here for the second Ascension Mk1 Block I vehicle to finish assembly on schedule next week. VAB is also sending the Progeny MK1-B back over to the HAB to be mounted atop the Deuce, itself finishing repairs just yesterday
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
successful mating of the Progeny Mk1-B and Deuce have set the stage for captive carry and release test to finally be carried out next week! Teams are aiming for wheels up after second sunrise on Monday
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Aldeny & Tedman are getting suited up, excited for their first mission together that will be unlike any other flown so far - carrying & releasing a rocket from the top of the Deuce. Jeb & Val will give the aircraft a pre-flight inspection
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
crews have the Deuce rolled out while Aldeny & Tedman finish up their briefing over in Flight Control. Rocket is very flush with aircraft - more luck than design but shows how mounting was difficult initially. Great weather for flying today!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
decoupler sits ahead of booster center of mass, so it will provide a nice kick up and back upon detach to ensure that it clears the tail of the aircraft, which will be flying level. The real test today is whether the rocket will flip over after release or not
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ted & Aldy have boarded after conferring with Jeb & Val on the readiness of the aircraft. Pre-flight now underway to get the engines fired up and the plane ready for departure. Progenitor & Genesis team member both here in Flight Control to monitor their respective missions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Progenitor team have called a flight abort after seeing readings indicating the rocket mount was not holding the vehicle properly once the aircraft engines were brought to life. Ted & Aldy are shutting down and going on standby while this new problem is worked on
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
having stood down from flight readiness, Ted & Aldy remain eager for their mission. Extra bracing is already being installed to ensure the rocket is held down securely and crews should have the Deuce ready to fly again by 2nd sunrise tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
strutting the Progeny Mk1-B to the Deuce has been completed and operations remain on track for a second flight attempt once the sun rises. Attach points on the booster will decouple and leave its surface relatively clean
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Deuce crew of Flght Officers Aldeny (flight commander) and Tedman are reviewing their flight plan once again in briefing prior to heading out for preflight. They will aim to reach 7km ASL & release the rocket just west of KSC, which will parachute back to the ground for recovery
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
weather has remained excellent through to this day cycle, with high cirrus clouds and otherwise clear skies. Strong winds out of the WSW are of minor concern but should mostly help the aircraft climb better
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Deuce has engine start, Progenitor team confirms rocket is looking secure and permission to taxi out to Rwy27 has been granted. Eyes will continue to watch the telemetry data as the aircraft trundles along towards its takeoff hold point
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
holding on the runway, Flight reports rocket remains secure and has given Aldeny permission to takeoff. Aircraft is only carrying 10% fuel to be as light as possible
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Deuce tail had no trouble leaving the ground during takeoff run and Aldy rotated to climb out after just 330m of roll, reports a solid positive climb rate and no noticeable control issues. He asked Ted to confirm the rocket is even still strapped atop the aircraft! 😛
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
climbing through 3.5km, leaving KSC behind as they head into the wind. Rocket remains secure and Deuce remains stable in flight. Both Genesis and Progenitor teams have already agreed to go for a release
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
passing through 6km and 72km downrange, Aldy has begun to turn back towards KSC to prepare for release, which will be initiated at at the command of Flight Control by Tedman, who is otherwise sitting back and enjoying the flight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
trimmed level at 7km ASL the Deuce is approaching KSC at 122m/s, 39km downrange. Once inside of 10km Flight will take a final look at the data and either give permission to release or instruct Aldy to go around for another pass
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
"Release! Release! Release!" Tedman triggered the decoupler to fire and the Progeny Mk1-B was successfully detached above the aircraft, clearing the tail as it fell back towards the ground. Spotter atop the VAB caught the rocket landing under good chute in the hills west of KSC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
beginning his descent shortly after rocket release, Aldy has spiraled down from 7km to setup for a nice slow 15km approach to Rwy27 - flaps to full and gear down he's now on short final
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
perfect landing by Aldeny, who is now taxiing back to the HAB while recovery crews approach the rocket landing site to get it loaded up and trucked back to the VAB for analysis
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
great video off the Deuce dorsal camera of the rocket being released into what appears to be a stable firing position before it starts to drift off heading. Progenitor team will carefully study onboard data to confirm youtube.com/watch?v=o5-RZv…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Progenitor and Genesis teams have reviewed yesterday's flight data and conclude the release went extremely well - the rocket was flying on its own after being pushed away from the aircraft and the engine exhaust would have cleared the Deuce's tail
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the rocket was pushed up to 36° of pitch from an initial 4° above horizontal. Since it can't steer upwards, a second carry and release test tomorrow will have the rocket decouple while the Deuce is climbing at an angle of 45°
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
crews have gotten quicker at getting the Mk1-B remounted to the Deuce, so it's ready to go but weather seems to be turning for the worse. Aldy and Ted are suited up and on standby in case conditions improve before 3rd sunset
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
clouds & wind made it seem like a storm was brewing but weather is improving and the Go has been given for the flight crew to head to briefing while the aircraft gets a final checkover out on the tarmac
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the 'stache gives away that Tedman has control of the aircraft for this mission as he and Aldy wrap up preflight to get the aircraft ready for departure. The sky is mostly clear - and dark thanks to Mun's shadow as a kerbolar eclipse recedes from maximum
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
departure clearance has been granted from Flight Control, giving Ted permission to taxi out and takeoff. Winds are still strong and coming from the south means they'll need to take the looong drive out to Rwy19
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tedman has powered the Deuce off the ground and is now passing through 800m ASL, cleaning up the wings and setting trim for a nice easy 10m/s climb up to 6km. This allows the aircraft to maintain momentum & remain ~120m/s - gaining speed at high altitudes is tough
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
passing through 6km Ted has begun to turn back towards KSC. 75km downrange, he'll use the distance to slowly climb the remaining 1km, level off and confirm the aircraft is stable in preparation for release of the rocket
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
20km out, approaching at 127m/s level @ 7km Ted is making one final minor course adjustment as instructed by Flight. Within 10km Flight will give the Go to dive down to 6.5km and climb back up holding a 45° pitch to 7km - at which point Ted will command Aldy to release the rocket
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
"Abort! Abort! Abort!" Tedman instructed Aldeny to not release the rocket as he determined his speed was low and climb angle was off. He's getting the Deuce back under control from the near-stall and Flight will vector him around for another approach
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Deuce has come around for another attempt. Tedman says he will apply full power on his climb this time and also make sure to dive only 500m as he is supposed to rather than nearly 1km on the first attempt. Both admit tho they're happy to pull some Gs again!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
"Release! Release! Release!" this time Tedman felt more confident in his climb and Aldeny fired the decoupler as commanded to send the rocket up and away from the rear of the aircraft. Separation looked as clean as the first attempt!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket has landed safely under chute and recovery crews are on the way as Tedman continues his descent to land back on Rwy19. Sun is getting low, which will make the runway markers harder to see on approach but Aldy has a pair of binoculars to help guide Ted in
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
taxiing back in after a smooth landing, the crew will debrief with the rest of the Genesis and Progenitor team members as data and footage is reviewed to determine whether the rocket did indeed perform nominally on this release closer to its ascent angle
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
initial results from today's mission show the rocket pitched up to 77° after being released at 44° (great flying, Ted!). This is only 1° more than expected based on data from the first test and shows an elevated release still won't kick the rocket over too much
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Deuce performance data also shows its capable of a greater climb angle, so rocket will be remounted again for a final test tomorrow that will see it detached from ~52° to reach its 85° optimal ascent angle - still no engine fire, just a drop & recovery
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
storms are moving through the area bringing high winds and rain. Ted and Aldy will be on standby hoping for better weather, ground crews braved the elements to get the rocket remounted and ready for another release test
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
Aldeny came down sick over the weekend, having an averse reaction to the allergy medication. Doctors have changed up his prescription and he's getting better but still unfit to fly today. Jeb & Val are tied up with capsule testing so Deuce flight delayed to Wed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Flight Officers Tedman & Aldeny spend all day on standby waiting for good flying conditions but will have to try again tomorrow. Weather also has to be conducive to a good release environment 7km up, which makes it tougher sometimes for the mission to get off the ground
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
2nd sunrise is coming, Tedman & Aldeny are getting suited up for flight. Today's mission will continue release testing of the Progeny Mk1-B off the rear of the Deuce, aiming to deploy the rocket into its nominal ascent pitch of ~85°
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ted & Aldy are heading out from briefing at Flight Control to perform their walk around inspection prior to climbing aboard for preflight. Weather conditions are decent, mostly cloudy with light winds and no gusts
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
unfortunately it seems the right engine of the Deuce has developed an oil leak - Aldy noticed the tarmac stain on walkaround and the routine pre-flight inspection check of the dipstick confirmed low levels. It will have to be repaired and made ready to fly again on Monday
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
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
we were treated to a sunset eclipse a short while ago (Mun is moving "up" off the sun in this photo). Ground crews have finished inspecting and clearing debris from the grass runways so the Deuce rocket carry/release mission can attempt to continue its mission tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Flight Officers Tedman & Aldeny are standing down from flight readiness after spending the day cycle waiting for a dense marine layer to clear - air temps have cooled but not as fast as the ocean water & remain higher than normal. The fog persists, endangering takeoff & landing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
weather remains unsuitable for flight so Deuce mission will have to try again on Monday. It was a slow week, but you can still check out our weekly Ops Summary in case you missed anything: kerbalspace.agency/?p=7811
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low clouds are rolling through but the Deuce is parked & ready, as are Aldeny & Tedman. We expect weather to improve later this day cycle. Given how much trouble the mission has had, no one is willing to miss a chance at getting airborne
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
halfway through the day cycle, but weather is looking better and time remains for the mission, which is scheduled to last less than an hour and would see the aircraft back on the ground before sunset. Deuce is already fired up and taxiing out to Rwy09
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Aldy is in the pilot seat today and has clearance from Flight to begin his takeoff roll. He'll climb out to the east until 6km ASL before turning back towards KSC to level off at 7km and prep for release maneuver. Tedman will be in charge of release
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Deuce is on course for KSC flyover, leveled off and ready to dip down and fly back up to release the rocket while pitched up to ~52° which should kick the rocket back and up into a pitch of ~85°
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket has just landed ~7km from KSC after a clean release from the top rear of the aircraft. Ted hit the release within 0.5° of target pitch while Aldy held the nose up, then dropped to recover the aircraft from its near stall. They are now spiraling down to land
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
smooth descent and landing on Rwy09, Deuce is taxiing back to the HAB while recovery crews have already reached the rocket to haul it back for post-flight inspection. Progenitor team will pull the onboard flight data for analysis, we should have results later today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
data from today's Progeny Mk1-B release shows the rocket only reached 74°, slightly less than the previous release test. This is likely due to the increased aircraft pitch blocking more of the airstream that was pushing the rocket upright after release
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Deuce flight data shows it can safely pitch higher, but release margin will be a lot tighter due to the aircraft being closer to stalling, so much so that the rocket's flight computer will need to monitor and engage the release if proper conditions are met
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the rocket will be re-mounted again for yet another test flight this week. We need to see if increasing aircraft pitch also affects the rocket further, or if pitching higher results in a similar result of only ~20° change in rocket pitch after release
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Progeny Mk1-B has been remounted on the Deuce for another flight tomorrow. It has a rudimentary flight computer that can't control it in flight but does have enough capability to handle automatically detaching the rocket when conditions are right for release
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Flight Officers Tedman & Aldeny remain on standby. Weather conditions so far today have been good for flying, but not for flying *and* releasing a rocket. They've grown used to waiting and the ready room certainly has comfy recliners
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
final day cycle today has reached the point where Ted & Aldy need to stand down. They don't exactly see a day on standby as wasted since there are always training materials to study up on, ground exercises to perform and project/mission planning to undertake
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the ready room is occupied once again by Flight Officers Tedman & Aldeny as they await clearance for another rocket carry & release test today. Currently winds are not favorable, and we hear thunder in the distance. They will be set to go if conditions improve at any time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
stormy weather has passed and reports from the direction it came from say better conditions are following. Ted & Aldy are heading off to Flight Control for their briefing, Flight Director Lanalye has the launch team coming on console as well to ready the rocket
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the rocket will NOT be fired today, but ground controllers are tasked with some additional work this mission due to the rocket now being in control of its own release if the Deuce manages to hit a specific angle and speed when the time comes to let go
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
everything is set for the pilots to head out to the Deuce, begin preflight and prepare for departure. There is some concern conditions at altitude will not be good for release, but we won't know for sure until the aircraft is up there
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
engines are running and clearance has been granted for Tedman to taxi out and takeoff from Rwy27, with winds coming out of the NW. Aldy will be running backup for ground control - should they lose signal he can locally ensure rocket's flight computer is running properly
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
much less room on this older flight computer model to store code so the script that will manage the release of the rocket is very crude. You can get the gist of it here: gist.github.com/KSAMissionCtrl…
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
aircraft has departed, is climbing out due west for 6km before turning back towards KSC. With engines at full power the Deuce can maintain a climb rate of 10m/s with a speed of ~125m/s
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
diverting south of west to hdg225 so they avoid the mountains, Ted reports things are bumpy as they head through the cloud layer but this is to be expected. We are hoping for smoother air above 5km. Aircraft is currently at 3.7km ASL, 36km downrange traveling 127m/s
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
turning back for KSC, Ted reports smooth flying. He will finish the climb to 7km and level off in preparation for the deployment maneuver to occur once they are within 10km of KSC. They are 65km downrange traveling ~122m/s so ground control standing by for release in ~7-8min
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
14km out we have a GO for deployment maneuver - once thru 10km Ted will dive to 6.5km then haul the nose up into a steep climb, pulling 4-5Gs. Aldy confirms flight computer is now running. It will release the rocket if pitch is >62° passing thu 7km without stalling (speed >70m/s)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we had release! Rocket was let go at 65° while traveling at 105m/s and nosed up to 81° before falling over back towards the ground. Deuce stalled shortly afterwards and recovered successfully, is now descending to land. Recovery chute has deployed for the rocket
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ted & Aldy are back on the ground after a smooth landing on Rwy27, recovery team has reached the rocket & report it landed safely. Was this release good enough to finally fire off the rocket next time? Hopefully we will know by the end of the week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
from roughly 30 meters below the Monolith researchers continue to carefully bore up into the crystalline structure they hope leads into the edifice itself. They have nearly reached the bottom and have slowed down to ensure they aren't damaging or triggering anything in the way
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
project scientists are monitoring the Monolith for any signs of its old subsonic/EM disturbances as well as the crystal veins locally and off in Kravass & Umbarg for any electrical activity. So far, all signs point to the Monolith remaining inactive
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Genesis & Progenitor teams have concluded they can fire off the Progeny Mk1-B rocket but still want to do one final test as a rehearsal to ensure that release conditions can be replicated, gather additional flight data from the rocket & do everything else except ignite the engine
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
Progeny Mk1-B rocket got a thorough checking out in the VAB since the last release mission before it was mounted back onto the Deuce today. All is ready for a final release test tomorrow before actually igniting the booster engine
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we were unable to get the Deuce off the ground this day cycle. Ted & Aldy remain on standby and will return to flight readiness as we approach 3rd sunrise. Flight Director Lanalye is running her team through some more drills in the meantime
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are GO for mission start! Weather has improved enough that we can feel confident conditions at release altitude are favorable as well. Flight crew is headed out to the aircraft while Mission Control team gets themselves organized to manage and monitor
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Flight Officer Aldeny is in the pilot seat today while Tedman backs him up as co-pilot and also keeps an eye on the rocket operation. Aircraft is ready to go and Flight has given clearance to taxi out and takeoff from Rwy27
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Deuce has left KSC behind as it climbs out to the west, following the same general flight pattern as the previous mission out towards the mountains then a bit SW before turning back for KSC when nearing 7km to setup for the release maneuver
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
hello from KSA HQ in Umbarg! Just calling out to let everyone know we are okay - electrical services are gradually coming back online in all caverns here, but KSC remains off limits until a team sent out yesterday to assess the Monolith's new activity has returned
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Aldeny & Tedman were able to return safely to KSC and land after losing radio contact while climbing to their mission altitude shortly after departing - thankfully the aircraft runs on enough mechanical systems the EM field did not totally disable it on approach
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we will release more information on the current situation once we have a better idea what we are dealing with; the past two days have mainly been working to recover basic infrastructure & ensure all our injured employees are being taken care of
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
website and Ops Tracker are now back online as electrical services here in Umbarg become more stable. Still no word from the team dispatched to KSC, but they are not overdue unless they fail to return or get in contact with us by later today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
surface team has returned, reports there is a consistent EM field over KSC, tho they found it has a radius of 10km in all directions (assumed out over the water as well) & is not specifically directed @ the space center. Generated current is strong enough to still fry electronics
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
high-level KSA staff meeting will be held tomorrow to work up a full assessment of the current situation and decide what steps will be taken moving forward over the next several days. We will have details in our Ops Summary
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
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
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
bore hole measurements made yesterday show it continues to close at a rate that will see it healed up by mid-Nov. We still have to see whether the EM field drops or further reduces its size but if able to resume surface ops, would work towards Jan '19 Ascension & Progeny launches
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Dhumla components would also be returned to KSC for final assembly to be completed by the end of the year so we could begin flight testing in January as well. We may at least be able to air-launch a Progeny Mk1-B from a Deuce before the end of the year however
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
no time off this weekend! Everyone is pitching in to begin getting the KSC buildings affected by the EM field back up to operational status by the end of the month, including the VAB and HAB so work can resume on Ascension, Progeny and Genesis projects in December
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
Flight Director Lanalye and her team are moving back into Mission/Launch Control today, will be spending the rest of the week running drills and tests to ensure all the systems are back to full operational status after the repairs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have confirmation from Flight Director Lanalye that all systems are GO over at Mission/Launch Control! Monday will see more drills, flight prep and a Deuce flight for final system checks before repeating the release rehearsal that was interrupted back in August
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
both our operational aircraft have been rolled back out to the tarmac after having their electronic systems checked and repaired where necessary. Later today Ted & Aldy will take up the Deuce to ensure everything is in working order prior to its next mission
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Deuce is taxiing back to the HAB after a fine landing. It will be brought back inside for mounting operations in preparation for its next mission. Tomorrow, weather permitting, Aldy will do a similar checkout of our operational Civvie
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good report from the HAB, which is buzzing with activity as the Dhumla continues its structural assembly while the Progeny Mk1-B is also being mounted on the tail of the Deuce & today's Civvie begins its science instrument integration
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Progeny Mk1-B has been successfully mated to the Deuce and rolled out to the tarmac for tomorrow's launch rehearsal. Thankfully bad weather from earlier today has moved on, forecast has tomorrow looking almost ideal - winds may be an issue still however
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
while it's nice to see short-term forecasts improving, this also means we'll be standing down until later in the day for our Progeny Mk1-B release rehearsal. New departure time will be after the next sunrise at 20:00 UTC & hopefully forecast holds for more favorable conditions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Lymun has arrived offshore. We will be releasing the rocket out over the Kerblantic this time as that is where it will be coming down after its flight. Lymun will recover the rocket today as an exercise to ensure any issues are worked out before actual post-flight splashdown
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ted & Aldy are suited & booted, heading over to Mission Control for their briefing with Flight Director Lanalye and her team of controllers. Ground crews are making sure the Deuce is ready for the flight crew to arrive afterwards. Weather conditions are improving as expected
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the purpose of this final release test is to gather even more data on the rocket behavior right after separation. The rocket itself will also now confirm that it can detect when it flies free of the aircraft so we know it can safely ignite its engine under the right conditions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
briefing complete, crew is heading out to preflight the aircraft while controllers get on console to begin setting up the rocket and ensuring all systems are ready for departure
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Aldy has signaled Flight that they are ready for taxi. Surface winds are light and variable; clearance to taxi will be granted out to Rwy27, getting them off in the direction they'll need to go for their climb to release altitude of 7km ASL
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ted has the Deuce in position and holding, waiting for Flight to run some final checks on the rocket before clearing them for takeoff. Plan was for controllers to be done by now but events haven't quite synced up as expected
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all good on the rocket side, Deuce was cleared for takeoff and has departed to the west, seen here climbing out of KSC. Ted will keep the engines at full throttle and climb for release altitude while controllers monitor rocket telemetry to ensure its reporting good data
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
already through 4km, Flight has vectored them south of the mountains as usual. Passing through the main cloud layer soon, Aldy will report on winds as they approach release altitude to confirm we have good conditions for today's rehearsal
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after leveling off at 7km we've had a chance to analyze the winds aloft and conditions are looking good. Flight has provided additional vectors and Ted is now setting up to pass over the drop zone heading into the wind
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Deuce is on course for the drop point, Ted holding her steady while Aldy works through final procedures with controllers on the ground to ensure the flight computers on the aircraft and the rocket are both ready for deployment. MSV Lymun confirms they are ready
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are GO for release! Flight has armed the rocket to detect its release conditions after Ted & Aldy dip the aircraft into a dive down to 6.5km and pulls up at ~4Gs to climb back to 7km with a pitch of ~65°. It is up to the pilots to begin the maneuver when they are ready
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket has been released cleanly! It is still free-falling towards chute deployment altitude @ 2.5km. Aircraft has recovered without issue from its stall and will begin descent to land back on Rwy27
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Lymun reported good chute deployment shortly after our last tweet, and the rocket splashed down 23km to the west just under a minute ago. They are moving to recover it as Ted & Aldy continue their descent from 7km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Deuce is turning onto base leg to setup for final approach. Lymun crews have reached the splashdown location and confirm the rocket is still on the surface with no visible damage. Bring it all home now!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have successful recovery of the rocket, now on its way back to shore as the Deuce taxis back to the HAB after a smooth landing. Excellent work everyone! Data from today's mission will be reviewed today and tomorrow to make the final decision on whether to attempt launch on Fri
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
review of the aircraft flight data shows no issues. Ted had command while Aldy stood ready to back him up with his side in the event of any control failure but Ted flew a perfect maneuver, leveling back off at 7km after the release and stall out
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we hear from the Progenitor team that they are looking closely at a communications issue that occurred at the time of release. The remainder of the rocket telemetry will be analyzed in detail tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Engineer Simon reports that the Mk1-B checks out in good condition after its splashdown, has its chute repacked & nose cone reinstalled. It will be mounted back on the Deuce later today. Mounting vehicle is standing by & Civvie is rolled out for flight in the following hour
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Aldy is rolling out of a smooth landing on the runway, will taxi back to the HAB to park on the grass next to the Deuce, which now has the Mk1-B strapped back on. No word yet from the Progenitor team as to whether we will go ahead with the launch attempt tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Progenitor team has decided to go for tomorrow's launch attempt. They are still unsure what caused a momentary comms disruption on detach, which could affect ignition, but if that fails the rocket will simply fall & deploy its chute like it did during all previous drops
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Flight Director Lanalye has just concluded the briefing for today's aerial launch attempt. Flight crew is heading out to the aircraft while controllers hop on to their consoles. Here is a look at what is in store and here you can review all the events since mid-2017 that led up to this mission www.kerbalspace.agency
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
while we would like to have a chase plane, a Civvie cannot fly that high and we were unable to borrow any of the few other Deuce aircraft in service elsewhere. We will have a camera on the ground at KSC try to capture what it can in addition to the onboard cameras
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
flight crew are aboard and working through preflight. (L to R) Tedman & Aldeny, Captain and First Officer respectively for this flight, will be putting all their practice runs to the test today at last. They posed by the aircraft earlier as the sun came up before climbing aboard
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Deuce is fired up and reports ready for taxi, controllers report the rocket is woke and sending through good telemetry with nominal power levels. It runs on the aircraft's batteries/alternator until it detaches much like being hooked up to a launch base on the ground
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we remain blessed with great weather, mostly sunny skies & calm winds - though once the aircraft gets higher up that could change but we will check that later. For now, Ted has begun the takeoff roll down Rwy27 as Aldy confirms his readouts for the rocket match Flight controllers
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
passing through 3.5km Aldy reports they're picking up some winds out of the southwest. Flight is vectoring them around the mountains to the northeast so they can approach the drop point into the wind. Deuce continues to climb steadily ~10m/s at full throttle
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
coming up on 7km ASL, release altitude, Ted will level off and hold heading to allow Aldy to work with Flight to interpret wind data being collected by the aircraft and determine how they will approach the drop point
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Deuce has come about and is setup on its approach to the drop point. Winds have been found to be within constraints and final checks are now underway, only ~5 minutes remain until the release maneuver
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all systems GO! Tedman and Aldeny have been cleared by FD Lanalye to proceed with release maneuver at their own discretion. Real-time rocket status can be viewed on our Ops Tracker. Standby! ops.kerbalspace.agency
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have had a successful flight of the Mk1-B along with successful stall recovery of the Deuce! Rocket parachute has been pre-deployed at 5km to prevent it from nose-diving towards the ground as the booster remains attached with its angled fins. Rocket apokee was 16.399km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Deuce has begun its descent to land via Rwy09, is well clear of the descending rocket. MSV Lymun has already gotten underway towards the projected splashdown location
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tad & Aldy have landed and Lymun is still fishing the rocket out of the water but reports that it landed without issue after fully deploying its parachute past 800m. Congratulations everyone!! 🥂✨🎊 a fabulous way to cap off the operational year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
full review of today's launch will not come until after we return to operations next year but we won't leave you all with nothing 🙂 Here is a look at the release and ascent from the ground and onboard cameras. Fwoooosh!! 🚀 youtube.com/watch?v=oDpjA1…
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
here is the full report on the preparation and execution of launching a Progeny Mk1-B rocket off the back of the Deuce: kerbalspace.agency/?p=8264
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
tl;dr - concept proven feasible, but not a useful means of getting to space with our current availability in aircraft or rocket technology, not to mention lack of any commercial support. Is a model we will definitely be keeping in mind for all future missions however
