All the tweets pertaining to the design and operation of the vessel. 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've finally sent a kerbal up into space. Here is a timeline overview of the rockets that it took to get us to this point. The next big step is to reach orbit, altho whether that will be with a probe or a capsule still has not yet been decided. Full res: flickr.com/gp/kerbal_spacβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we didn't have nearly as many photos to sort through this past year as we did at the end of 2017 so we've already picked out our top 100 images from 2018: flickr.com/photos/kerbal_β¦ overall favorite is the Ascension Mk1 going vertical for the 1st time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
getting a look at all the launch trajectories was much harder this year given the overall height of the missions & the spread of launch azimuths used, but we did our best. You can always download telemetry for individual flights from the Ops Tracker to graph your own data
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the final tally for rocket flights from this past year is in! We did not include the Mk1-B, as that counted for atmospheric flight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
check out all the details in the official report for the final Progeny Mk5 flight and get ready for the next launch, the first Mk6, scheduled for 2/15 @ 21:01 UTC!! kerbalspace.agency/?p=6728
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
time to chillax and enjoy the weekend! Head over to bit.ly/OpSummary1-29-β¦ (link verified! Sorry about last week) to check out details on this week's Deuce PR tour and the latest news from the Progenitor team on the Mk6
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mortimer has posted our bit.ly/FinanceReport_β¦, which shows we had a rough month and obviously a lot still to recoup from the big Admin Center renovation project. Genesis still hanging in the green but Progenitor has slipped back into the red again
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's official, the Progeny Mk5 is now the Mk6! Find out all the details, including what is now in store for the Block II since the Block I has proven capable of making past low-Kerbin space as well as a possible Mk7 kerbalspace.agency/?p=6681
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
previous plots were from tracking data, here's a closer look at the ascents from the onboard telemetry. The 2nd flight was more aggressive while the 4th flight was more efficient
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
lots of Mk5 analysis ongoing. This recent flight will be compared closely to the second flight, which was the first successful Block I launch and made it almost 500km up following a much different ascent profile
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it was Ops Tracker v3.0.0 that powered the live staging updates yesterday - what did everyone think? Check out the details on the update here: github.com/KSAMissionCtrlβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
only telemetry data is stored in the probe core, which suffered just minor damage so it was fully recovered and is now available for perusal at bit.ly/Mk5_Tlm_1-25-18 - we are still have trouble with the HDR logger so no graph included again
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket assessment reveals everything above the probe core was critically damaged upon impact. Science data was mostly lost but we managed to negotiate half our completion fee from Bloeting based on the data that was able to be recovered
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
yesterday was our 28th rocket launch in 500 days of operation. Here's a look back at the cadence for the Progeny rockets. We expect the next 100 days to be somewhere in between the last 200
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Progenitor engineers will be giving this flight a close look over the next several days, we'll have an overview of the flight in tomorrow's ops report but besides the bad landing we broke several bit.ly/KSARecords:
Heaviest Rocket Launched: 1.707t
Highest Altitude over Kerbin: 546.460km
Fastest Velocity in Atmosphere: 1,912.7m/s
Longest Mission Distance: 1,116.200km
Heaviest Rocket Launched: 1.707t
Highest Altitude over Kerbin: 546.460km
Fastest Velocity in Atmosphere: 1,912.7m/s
Longest Mission Distance: 1,116.200km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the rocket, or what's left of it, has been returned to KSC and just at a glance it looks like it somehow came down nose first and ruined everything above the probe core - fairings half tore off, payload took on water and that flipped the rocket end up after splashdown
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
news at last! Lymun is on her way back with a mangled rocket found engine-up bobbing in the ocean - not how it is supposed to land. They could also find no trace of the chute, which indicates deployment likely did not go well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
wrapping up post-flight ops. Both boosters splashed downrange & crews report pad and launch base remain in good shape. MSV Tongjess has departed to head west to meet up with the KB team. We're expecting to hear from MSV Lymun within the next hour or so
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
comm signal lost passing through 50km, rocket will be below the horizon when it deploys its chute so all we can do now is proceed with post-flight operations and wait for Lymun to report in, they have about 50km to travel, a little over an hour away
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
about to fall below 100km and approaching the atmosphere at >2km/s. Currently 129km downrange, Lymun should have been tracking it since shortly after launch and already be well underway on a course to intercept
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
almost halfway back down - we are concerned about our chances for recovery given that traveling just shy of 500km led to a near-total loss of the payload and for that we (inadvertently) came in broadside instead of straight up and down
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
just now passing through apokee, no change to radiation levels, holding steady at 10.010 rad/h. Rocket is so high if Bob & Bill had a large enough dish they could receive line of sight telemetry data too all the way over at bit.ly/Site_0B-RZ
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Tongjess is heading over to where the Wx balloon splashed down about 15 mins ago to retrieve it from the water, then exchange it for another high-altitude balloon it will carry out to bit.ly/Sector_GV-001 after picking up Bill, Bob & crew tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
passing through 300km and once again we are back in a region of high-radiation, which so far has only been probed out to 500km so we will see if conditions change at all past that point
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
BECO and the Mk5 is heading far uphill to an apokee of 546.46km!! This is going to be just one of several shattered records. Time to apokee is just under 9 minutes. Battery consumption is a concern but we should have more than enough to last until splashdown
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ascent extremely nominal, 1st & 2nd booster drops w/o issue, AoA within constraints, 3rd stage booster has just now lit and is throttling up to full - we've already achieved an apokee outside of the atmosphere!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
booster ignition and lift-off!! Progeny Mk5 has cleared the launch base and is on its way, making the first trip up into space for 2018! Pitch over is nominal and the rocket is tracking east, will be over the horizon shortly for Lymun to spot
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-1m] we're still bumping up against the wind limit but as long as no gusts pass through... Flight Director Lanalye has not allowed any leeway, if speeds tick over into the red even for a second a hold will be called
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-2m] terminal count! Switch-over to internal power in progress, AFCS is now in charge, RF comm checks being performed as ground umbilicals are pulled. Tune in to bit.ly/ProgenyMk5B1-4 for real-time status updates of major flight events
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] skies look great, final polling is in - Wx: GO (will continue to monitor surface winds up to T-0); Range: GO; Flight: GO; Tracking: GO; Ops Director: Launch permission granted! π GO PROGENY π
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch controllers using the extra time to perform additional vehicle checks. Can you ever have to many checks? We don't think so. Control room largely quiet as everyone prepares their stations for final general polling at L-5m
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
HOLD called by Wx as a band of thick clouds passes overhead. Tongjess reports that we have clearer skies on the way and a new L-0 time has been loaded onto the rocket for 15:00 UTC, so not a long wait - keep thinking calm thoughts tho for winds. No gusts allowed!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] range safety protocol is now in effect, rocket has enabled its Flight Termination System and boosters are ARMED. Any incursion by vessel or kerbs into the range will halt the countdown
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
surface wind concern is due to the rocket standing up from drag at the nose at launch, winds from the east can tip it over at this early phase so it falls west as it ascends over KSC, in which case the RSO would trigger the Flight Termination System
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] launch rehearsal concluded, Wx reports conditions are YELLOW for surface winds, so they will be monitored closely but we are otherwise cleared to proceed into the final countdown. Pad is secure, rocket remains nominal, range is clear
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we just received a patchy transmission from Lymun but it sounds like they are out there and ready to scoop up a rocket!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-45m] AFCS control has been confirmed, rocket stands ready for terminal count. Launch team performing their full flight dress rehearsal to ensure everyone knows what they are doing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h] MSV Lymun should be on station 180km downrange by now for recovery operations. As with last time, we don't expect to hear from them at that distance but they will still attempt to make contact at set periods over the next hour. Ahhh! One hour left!!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've been too busy to setup additional viewing areas as planned so ticket sales were limited again and sold out fast. Please stay within the designated areas for your safety and follow all instructions by KSC staff
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h20m] we have balloon release, heading up past 18km to check up on @upperlevelwinds for any shear conditions. Surface winds remain a concern but thankfully have not increased with sunrise and skies have improved to only partly cloudy
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h30m] all systems remain nominal, preflight has been completed. Range Safety Officer now working with MSV Tongjess, on station 14km offshore, to setup the eastern range to monitor for incursions and track vehicle ascent
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h55m] no issues being worked, fuel levels holding, pad secure. QRT sheltering in the bunker while rest of pad crew evacuates outside of 300m blast radius so launch controllers can perform engine checkouts of all three boosters
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
balloon team heading out to MSV Tongjess holding just offshore so they can launch from the range monitoring location as winds are coming out of the east and we want the balloon to stay within the rocket ascent corridor on its way up
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h40m] fueling has wrapped up, now we enter a period of monitoring tank levels to ensure no leaks in the fuel system. During this time pad crews will secure the pad and further tests of the rocket systems will be carried out
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-5)
1/25
#2π 08:03:17 !!π!! π11:53:47
#3π 14:04:08 π17:54:38
#4π 20:04:59 π23:55:29
1/26
#1π 02:05:50 π05:56:20
@ KSC (UTC-5)
1/25
#2π 08:03:17 !!π!! π11:53:47
#3π 14:04:08 π17:54:38
#4π 20:04:59 π23:55:29
1/26
#1π 02:05:50 π05:56:20
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h55m] rocket has accepted its instructions and the AFCS is standing by for terminal count. Controllers have configured the 3rd stage booster for fueling and given the GO for pad crews to begin pumping 109kg of liquid propellants onboard
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h10m] we have a GO from Wx to continue preflight operations, the only concern right now being surface winds out of the SE. Pad crews report rocket is looking good, controllers waking it up to onload operations code (bit.ly/AFCS_ChangeLog)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
flight profile today will be similar to last launch, the diff being increased thrust for the 2nd stage booster & no coast period for the third stage, which will ignite 2 seconds after the 2nd stage booster is spent, 1s after it is decoupled. It will thrust initially at 2.5 TWR
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h40m] launch control team assembling to run through the execution of today's flight while the pad crew heads out to check on the rocket and launch base to ensure everything weathered the storm okay
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h10m] everyone is well rested and countdown to launch of bit.ly/ProgenyMk5B1-4 has resumed! Here is our schedule again of the major event times when you can expect an update. Weather report gathering has begun, storms moved out yesterday leaving behind mostly-cloudy skies
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
decision made to scrub the launch, storm is abating but operators have been working since early today - best to get them some rest & we will continue our launch attempt early again tomorrow. New L-0 time set for 14:48 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
one hour remains in our daylight launch window, storm rages on. Causeway has been shut down due to high winds - any shuttle buses crossing it could be blown over! Rocket remains healthy on the pad, Lanalye reports testing has gone well and repairs are good
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
leading edge of the storm has arrived. There is a good chance it will pass and allow us to attempt a launch later today so we will continue to hold the countdown at L-4h10m
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch base & rocket are being secured to tie downs on the pad in anticipation of strong winds. FD Lanalye will still run her team through drills today and also perform checkouts on the rocket to ensure repairs went well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
weather kerbs have put a halt on the countdown & issued severe weather notices for the campus - looks like a strong line of storms is heading our way from the southwest, likely fallout from VWU-324(E)'s impact earlier this wk. We'd hoped it wouldn't get here this fast, or at all
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h10m] meteorologists are starting to pull together data from Umbarg and Kravass as well as airships plying their routes to get an idea of what weather conditions may be heading our way later
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
wrapping up work on the Tracking Station, technicians assure us all will be in order when we begin preflight @ 15:36 UTC. Here is our timeline for the day
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-5)
1/24
#2π 07:59:53 π11:50:23
#3π 14:00:44 !!π!! π17:51:14
#4π 20:01:35 π23:52:05
1/25
#1π 02:02:26 π05:52:56
@ KSC (UTC-5)
1/24
#2π 07:59:53 π11:50:23
#3π 14:00:44 !!π!! π17:51:14
#4π 20:01:35 π23:52:05
1/25
#1π 02:02:26 π05:52:56
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
technicians are still repairing wires and running cable - we admit this is partly our fault as well for failing to properly label or tag everything when it was first installed. Launch has been pushed back to 1/24 @ 19:46 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Mk5 stands ready out on the pad as an early sunset arrives thanks to Mun. Tracking Station repairs remain ongoing but we're still looking to launch early tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tracking Station repairs are off to a good start, we will be rolling out the Mk5 after 3rd sunrise to begin initial pad checkouts. Once TS is able to receive pad data again the rocket will be checked out as well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tracking Station needs to call in additional tech support from Umbarg - looks like inspection crews last month were very careless with the wiring when taking a look at the core structural elements of the building. Launch is officially delayed to 1/24 @ 13:45 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
in similar fashion to this photo, the Mk5 has been loaded onto the carry vehicle and parked for rollout tomorrow after passing final integration checks. Flight Director Lanalye says here team is ready as long as Tracking Station repairs wrap up soon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tracking Station reports they have uncovered a serious ground wiring issue affecting their control consoles when linking to the external feed that runs out to the pad. Technicians are working the problem
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill & Bob report the three KerBalloons prepped to support upper-level wind monitoring for the launch are ready. We have parts for 5 more on hand if needed, more are always ordered each launch to maintain a surplus (usually not all are used)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VWU-324(E) will be coming down away from any surface ops, scientists are logging it for future research trips - hopefully soon we'll have satellites to help us check these sites out
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today KSC will undergo launch readiness checks while the Mk5 takes another pass at final integration. Rainy overcast skies since yesterday are keeping the Deuce grounded but weather is passing and we hope to send it off to KGA sometime after 3rd sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the lack of a rocket launch has made this past week no less exciting, that's for sure. Catch up on all that happened along with additional information via bit.ly/OpsSummary1-15β¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mk5 is being demated so the size adapter can be replaced today for launch early next week. The relatively quick turnaround is due to having a spare on hand that has been sitting in storage since Oct waiting to be used for the Block II launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
looks like Genesis isn't the only program having a bad day - Progenitor has announced a structural problem with the 0.35->0.625m adapter was discovered during final checkouts. Launch has been delayed, now targeting 1/23 @ 19:42 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the code for the upcoming rocket flight has been given final approval and uploaded to our Github, you can check out the details at bit.ly/AFCS_ChangeLog, just operational updates for this launch, no major changes to AFCS itself
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
final stacking operations are underway in the VAB to "top off" the Mk5 and clear the way for final integration checks. Tomorrow the rocket will be laid horizontal and loaded onto the carry vehicle for transport to the pad Friday
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
science instruments for the next Mk5 launch have been integrated to the payload truss and delivered to the VAB to mount on the third stage. Stages one and two have already been stacked and stage three will go on top tomorrow followed by final integration into Thursday
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
not bad for our first week of 2018 right? Catch up on anything you may have missed along with additional details via our bit.ly/OpsSummary1-8-β¦ and we hope you all enjoy a relaxing weekend!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all three stages for next week's bit.ly/ProgenyMk5B1-4 launch have been assembled and will be stacked and integrated to kick off next week. Payload is also undergoing final prep over at the R&D campus
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
upcoming Progeny launch via the Ops Tracker will still have status updates similar to the old Flight Tracker as we use the launch to code for and test the general updating of page information. Will eventually reach the point of live telemetry, hopefully by 1st Ascension launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Engineer Simon has VAB crews pulling extra shifts to makeup for the lost time last week and Mk5 Block I assembly is well underway. We are targeting a launch for 1/19 @ 19:29 UTC - bit.ly/ProgenyMk5B1-4
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're back to full operational status here at KSC! We have a lot to look forward to in 2018 and over the past week at KSA HQ many meetings were had to finalize our general timeline for the year. Here's what to expect:
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VAB & HAB both passed their inspection today, clearing the way for crews to get things setup over the weekend so operations on the Deuce and Progeny Mk5 can get started full swing on Monday
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Operations Tracker v1.0.0 has been π DEPLOYED!! π
Check it out and let us know what you think. We expect issues and hope to see reports submitted for them to be fixed ASAP. We can't wait to put it to use with out next Progenitor launch this month!
kerbalspace.agency/Tracker/trackeβ¦
Check it out and let us know what you think. We expect issues and hope to see reports submitted for them to be fixed ASAP. We can't wait to put it to use with out next Progenitor launch this month!
kerbalspace.agency/Tracker/trackeβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
great work getting things organized at HQ so far this week, R&D and science labs getting back to work at KSC today while HAB and VAB are still completing their inspections - we expect to get the "all clear" tomorrow so we can finally kick off 2018 operations full swing next week!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSA HQ in Umbarg is once again a hive of activity as all staff return from holiday break to get everything in order to return to KSC this week. Full regular ops will begin next week as building surveyors need more time to finish their inspections started last month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
πβ¨ HAPPY NEW YEAR!! β¨π
We hope everyone rang in 2018 safely with much joy and look forward to returning to KSC tomorrow to begin ramping up operations for the coming year!
\[0o]/
We hope everyone rang in 2018 safely with much joy and look forward to returning to KSC tomorrow to begin ramping up operations for the coming year!
\[0o]/
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
fare thee well 2017!! Kerbal Space Agency signing off for the year! If you hear from us before the 1st of next month it's probably going to be nothing good. We still have one last bit.ly/OpsSummary12-1β¦ for you all. Safe holidays everyone!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we had a profitable 2017 with good growth according to our year-end bit.ly/FinanceReport_β¦ from Mortimer. 2018 should continue this trend although the budget for Ascension (not included) is looking rather daunting right now
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we posted 900+ photos this year & after much debate the top 100 have been chosen! Some are simply our favorites but many are key events that happened this past year. Do you remember a favorite of yours that didn't make the cut? Our #1 photo is attached flickr.com/photos/kerbal_β¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Progenitor team had a final meeting today and decided that, due mainly to the visible design changes, once the Mk5 Block I design is locked in they will retire it and the Block I and Block II designs will go on to become the Progeny Mk6
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mortimer has just signed off on the final purchase order for 2017, which will get us the parts we need for our next Progeny Mk5 Block I launch scheduled for no earlier than 1/15/18. He's now preparing our year-end financial report for tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
an interesting thing we never shared about the Progeny Mk5 Block I 2nd launch was its trajectory in reference to Kerbin - it went so high and got so slow the rotation of the planet caught up to it, which is why it came down so close to KSC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Progenitor team have reviewed last week's launch data and completed fault analysis on the second stage booster. Check out the full report for details on what to expect from the Progeny rockets next year: kerbalspace.agency/?p=6246
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
2017 Year in Review: Rocket Flight. We had some great missions this past year, you can review them all via the bit.ly/ProgenitorProg⦠home page and we can't wait to get started with bit.ly/AscensionProgr⦠next year!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSC operations for 2017 are wrapped! Find out why via bit.ly/OpsSummary12-1β¦ and catch up on this past week's activites. KSA operations are set to wrap next week - stay tuned for many year-in-review stats π
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
telemetry data has been posted for yesterday's flight - bit.ly/Mk5_Tlm_12-14-β¦ which paints a clear picture for us in regards to the throttle anomaly. More investigation will be needed to determine what went wrong during the 2nd stage separation
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
quick review of recovered data has let us make final update to bit.ly/ProgenyMk5B1-3 for splashdown location, distance traveled and total mission time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
payload has been delivered to KSC and is being broken down in the VAB so the science instruments and data can be handed off to the labs for analysis. We will include an initial flight review in tomorrow's weekly ops report
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
post-launch operations have closed out, launch base is being moved back into the VAB for storage until next year. We will have an idea when our first 2018 launch will be next week after a full review of data from this launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
cheers from Launch Control as MSV Tongjess finally managed to get in touch with us to confirm it is cruising back to KSC with a payload aboard!! \[0_o]/ congratulations to the entire Progenitor team for a successful wrap up of their 2017 flight operations!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
at standard speed, it would take MSV Tongjess ~50min to make it from its initial recovery station to around where we lost signal, but it would have seen it coming down short and been in motion beforehand so if seas are calm it could now be reaching where the rocket splashed down
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
post-launch ops underway - even if we don't have an intact payload everyone still *extremely* satisfied with this flight! Other than the 2nd stage decoupling & LF/O throttle to look into, all went as well as we could have hoped to deal with all the issues identified last launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
as expected, Tracking Station reports no signal re-acquisition since it was lost several seconds after our last tweet. Rocket should have by now deployed chute to drift gently down into the waters of the Kerblantic but we will have to wait for news from MSV Tongjess
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after initial atmospheric penetration at 1.576km/s the rocket is still gaining speed until it hits thicker air, where it will heat up a plasma blocking radio signals. We don't expect to regain a signal before it falls below the horizon and deploys its parachute
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
apokee reached, now for the fall back to Kerbin. Rocket's precession increased during final boost like last launch but not as extreme, tilting as much as 50Β° from vertical it will still re-enter in <4min mostly engine-down and will stand back upright as it hits denser air
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
now prepping for balloon recovery, we have booster splashdown confirmations from MSV Lymun, which tracked the 1st stage to 11.4km downrange @ L+3:14 & the 2nd stage to 29.8km downrange @ L+4:38. The rocket is currently 65km downrange, angling south with a 4.8Β° inclination
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
final apokee after BECO-3 is 252.14km, which is just above the originally-planned 250km ceiling for Block I operations so everyone still pleased! Time to apokee is just over 3min. No booster cutoff notification has been logged... interesting...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
LF/O booster pinned at 76% thrust after throttle-up for some reason but otherwise operating nominally. apokee is 220km and rising. The long coast period between stage two & three will keep our final apokee lower than last launch but ballistic flight data will still be useful
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
anomalous 2nd stage booster decoupling put a bit of wobble on 3rd stage enough to eventually exceed 1Β° AoA constraint. Quick decision by controllers was to wait until near space to see how the precession develops before final booster ignition, now coming up shortly
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all events have gone according to plan so far. 1st stage booster performed phenomenally, keeping MaxQ below 80kPa as we had hoped and separated cleanly upon burnout. 2nd stage booster is now pushing after igniting at 28.9km ASL w/ TWR of 2.21
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
booster ignition and LIFT OFF of the 3rd Progeny Mk5 Block I for our last trip into space for 2017!! Initial TWR of 4 as planned has pushed the rocket away from the launch base and on course to the east, trajectory nominal
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-1m] here we go!! Tune in to bit.ly/ProgenyMk5B1-3 to get real-time updates of planned events during the ascent via our Flight Tracker. Hopefully next year's first launch will feature streaming telemetry
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-2m] the Automated Flight Control System has begun to closely monitor the rocket as it comes off ground power and switches over to RF comms, will ignite the lower booster at precisely 17:30:00.0 UTC. Callouts remain nominal for all systems
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] Weather: GO, upper-level winds within limits, no shear detected; Range: GO; Flight: GO; Tracking: GO; Ops Director: Launch permission granted! π GO PROGENY π
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the hush of quiet readiness has fallen over Launch Control as all stations focus on one last review of data to make ready for the final general polling ahead of the terminal countdown. Issues board is clear, all systems nominal
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] Range Safety Officer has confirmed with MSV Lymun the eastern range is clear of all traffic - boats or aircraft. Pad confirmed clear out to 300m, quick response team sheltered. Rocket boosters are now ARMED, as is the Flight Termination System
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-20m] still no word from MSV Tongjess so over-horizon comms not bouncing signals well today, but we at least know from Lymun they were headed out there. We can't wait until we can bounce a signal off a satellite instead of the finicky atmosphere
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] clear, perfect skies from outside of Launch Control as dawn approaches, surface winds are calm. We're still awaiting word on upper-level wind conditions but the GO has been given to proceed into final countdown operations
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
viewing areas are all packed with the additional members of the public - we will be looking to open up additional viewing areas for the next launch. Please remain within these designated areas for your safety & obey all KSC staff instructions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-45m] Launch Control has wrapped up preflight operations, pad has been fully secured and evacuated, now moving into the full launch dress rehearsal to ensure all setups are complete & all assets are in place
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h] we're standing by for word from MSV Tongjess that they are at the recovery zone 180km downrange, same distance as last launch. Like last time, we probably won't hear them at that distance though. Hopefully they get a rocket to recover this time!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h20m] we have balloon release for its 1h ascent to the upper atmosphere (>18km). Data gathered for winds aloft will be factored into our Go/No Go decision for final all-station polls prior to terminal countdown
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h30m] rocket boosters looking healthy so far, checks ongoing. MSV Lymun has reported on station for range monitoring & confirms that her sister ship MSV Tongjess also departed Umbarg earlier today to head for our planned recovery zone
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h55m] all systems nominal onboard the rocket so far - pad crew is now clearing out so Launch Control can begin booster engine/ignition checks. A quick-response team will shelter in the nearby bunker
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob & Bill lead a team of UTVs out to setup for a high-altitude balloon release so we can get measurements of upper-level wind conditions to check for shear & excessive wind speeds prior to terminal countdown. 2 more balloons can support additional launch attempts if needed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h40m] moving right along, sticking to schedule tanking is wrapped up and fuel levels will now be monitored to ensure no leaks exist in the tanks or lines. Further rocket system tests will be performed while pad workers clean up and begin to secure the launch site
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h55m] AFCS is booted up and initialized, rocket has been configured for tanking and Flight Director Lanalye has given the pad crew the GO to begin fueling operations, onloading 109kg of liquid propellants to the third stage
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h10m] we are GO for preflight operations! Meteorologists see signs for good weather during our first daytime launch window, but things may deteriorate afterwards so might only have one shot today. Launch team waking up the rocket for command software load
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with the new AoA constraint on the AFCS the launch team will need to be ready to manually initiate booster ignition if the rocket wobbles too far off its prograde vector during the coast phases
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h40m] while weather team studies data & attempts to make a forecast the launch team is assembling in Launch Control to get their final preflight briefing. Ascent profile will use the usual 1.5Β° pitch over change to end coast phases
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h] countdown has begun for today's launch! Here is our timeline of major events, expect updates at these times. Weather reports are coming in from Kravass, Umbarg, Maritime Service ships & airship captains moving through the region
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have launch readiness approval!! KSC is π GO FOR LAUNCH π attempt tomorrow @ 17:30 UTC. We're all hoping to end 2017 with a bang - but not literally!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
tickets for public access to view the launch sold out yesterday. We had quite a few complaints about the short notice for those that need to travel, but don't worry, all launches will be open for viewing going forward!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
FD Lanalye reports we have a healthy rocket out on the pad all set for preflight ops to begin tomorrow @ 13:30 UTC. Now just waiting on Drew & Mortimer to sign off on all the paperwork...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
mounted to the launch rail, the Progeny Mk5 Block I stands 12m tall. It currently weighs 1.596t while empty of any fuel in the 3rd stage tanks. Launch Control now proceeding with final readiness checks. Eve, Dres and Moho visible in the clear dusk sky
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
FD Lanalye has concluded drilling her team of flight controllers and says everyone is ready for the real thing tomorrow and whatever problems the rocket might throw at them. She admits it could still surprise them though. Rockets are sneaky like that
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tracking Station reports all dishes are calibrated and ready to support telemetry gathering during launch and ascent tomorrow. With 4 dishes capable of receiving signals we shouldn't have any redundancy problems!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VAB reports the rocket is ready for rollout, will make its trip to the launch pad shortly. The launch base was placed back out on the pad earlier today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
controllers are on console as Flight Director Lanalye leads them through one final day of launch drills, mostly focused on flight profile assessment in the case of AoA constraint violation during ascent (>0.5Β° 2nd stage coast, >1Β° 3rd stage coast)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
everyone hit the ground running today, the past 2hrs have been spent getting everything in order to begin the full sweep of final readiness checks across campus from the VAB to the Tracking Station to Mission Control and the Administration Building
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Engineer Simon reports that the Mk5 is on schedule to complete closeouts tomorrow for rollout after 2nd sunrise. The rest of KSC is prepped for final readiness checks tomorrow as well. Getting closer!!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Progeny Mk5 Block I has been fully stacked, VAB crews now in meeting to go over the horizontal laydown for integration of fairings & final closeouts. At 1.707t, the rocket will weigh only 6kg more than the previous one w/extra shielding & more powerful stage 1 decoupler
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/AFCS_ChangeLog has the details of our modifications to the Automated Flight Control System for this week's Progeny flight. Biggest changes being AoA constraint checking during coast and additional per-launch defined data logging
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
L-2 days until bit.ly/ProgenyMk5B1-3 heads back up into space! Today the VAB will get the entire rocket stacked vertically to ensure proper coupling
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mk5 first stage booster has been completed without issue and will be integrated with the rest of the rocket tomorrow for final closeouts
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this week's launch will be the first to be open to the public, but availability will be limited. We look forward to welcoming new spectators to the KSC this Thursday!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/OpsSummary12-4β¦ has all the extra details and information on what you may have missed this past week. Launch week starts in just two more days! Get hype! π
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
stacking was begun yesterday with the 2nd & 3rd stages, 1st stage booster work today has made excellent progress, will wrap up on Monday for stacking. Final integration Tue, rollout Wed. Only the lower stage has angled fins now to spin up the rocket over its 31s boost
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
final re-calibration & testing will be completed today for the 3rd Tracking Station dish, re-commissioning it for active duty. It will still be a while before we can work on linking them though
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
everyone is familiar with the vehicle doors used to roll rockets out to the pad but the cargo doors to the rear are where all the parts come in, like our new 0.625m booster due to arrive shortly
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
less than 1 week now! Who's ready for this? We almost are!! π More details on the launch and the rocket via our Flight Tracker: kerbalspace.agency/Tracker/craft.β¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Progeny Mk5 Block I stage two has been closed out, ready for integration with the first stage booster next week, will be coupled with the third stage tomorrow. Launch base is also back in the VAB for refurbishment, moved when pad was cleared for the booster test
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Head of Finances Mortimer has posted up bit.ly/FinanceReport_β¦ which was an easy net gain thanks to no Progenitor or Deuce missions but we get happiness more from pushing boundaries than making lots of funds
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
power has been restored to KSC, what could be done today by daylight & temporary lighting has still been significant across the campus. We expect no delays in Mk5 assembly as long as Umbarg power repairs remain permanent as planned
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have power restored to KSA HQ here in Umbarg, but full utilities are still coming back online slowly to ensure repairs are holding. Due to its transmission distance, KSC won't have power sent to it until later today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Umbarg keothermal plant is undergoing emergency maintenance this weekend starting ~30min from now, still recovering from extensive damage due to the Monolith Incident. All efforts to avoid a major outage have prevailed until now. We hope to receive power again by Monday
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we apologize again for failing to register our shortlink prior to publishing, causing a web bot to note the dead link & create one to a spam site :/ Horrible scammers out there. Catch up on this week's activities w/additional insight here: kerbalspace.agency/?p=6168
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
now that we know booster is good for launch, date has been locked in for 12/14 @ 17:30 UTC for our next Progeny Mk5 Block I launch attempt! π bit.ly/ProgenyMk5B1-3
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
USI has reviewed the data from yesterdays booster test and they agree with Progenitor team that everything is looking good. Thrust falloff is less linear than intended but the important thing is peak thrust will be enough to leave the pad without tipping over
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
booster has been unmounted, clamps are being removed and data from the test is being sent off to USI for full analysis although initial reports from engineers here say the results were good
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have had successful ignition, good run and burn out just shy of 31 seconds. Bunker crew will go out to inspect the booster shortly to clear the rest of the crew back in to begin dismounting operations
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ignition in 5 minutes, final checks of RF comms underway along with backup hardline, monitoring equipment standing by, engine controller is running
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
10 minutes to ignition, Range Safety Officer has ensured pad and surrounding area is clear of unsheltered personnel and closed the test range. Ignition pyros are ARMED
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
20 minutes to ignition, all systems look good from Mission Control so the pad is being evacuated with a quick response team sheltering in the bunker
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
booster is hooked up to the test clamps, controllers are on console making sure all hookups are good and the control unit integrated with the booster for this test is booted up and operating nominally. Still on schedule for 17:30 UTC firing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
procession of crew vehicle, carry truck & mounting vehicle are making their way to the launchpad to setup for today's booster test while Duna, Neidon, Sarnus, Urlum and Moho all cluster near the brightening horizon. Crescent Minmus is barely visible towards the top of the image
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Simon reports that the Mk5-I booster checks out. We will mount it on the pad tomorrow at 2nd sunrise and hold the static fire test @ 17:30 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
crews have the test clamps installed out on the pad, a similar setup is in the VAB for initial readiness checkouts, which Lead Engineer Simon reports are currently underway & proceeding nominally
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our new booster has arrived! VAB crews are jumping on the task of getting it unpacked and ready for tomorrow's test - it needs to be hooked up to the VAB test clamps, receive power & send/receive data signals. Test clamps also being installed on the launch pad
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Progeny Mk5-I test booster has been packaged up & loaded, will depart Umbra Space Industries HQ in Sheltered Rock & arrive tomorrow for us to get ready for testing on Thursday
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our dish array placement is complete, now to just get the 3rd dish back to operational status and fully calibrated in its new location - then work can begin to see about linking them all together to someday receive faint deep space signals
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
not a whole lot you could have missed this week but just in case you weren't paying attention get caught up with bit.ly/OpsSummary11-2β¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
everyone is indeed a bit bummed to think we had planned to be on a launch cadence w/Progeny Mk5s of at least once a week by now, but hopefully our Dec return to flight will set us up for such a thing starting next year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
second stage Progeny Mk5 booster has arrived as work winds down on the third stage. It has thrust reduced further for a planned TWR of 2 at 15km and will still sport fins at the bottom
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
3rd stage construction for the next Mk5 Block I is expected to be completed this week in the VAB, including payload instruments, using the new parts that will help to provide better radiation protection
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
USI has locked in their new core design and will begin to manufacture the test booster for us to static fire late next week, currently aiming for Thursday
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Umbra Space Industries has been making good progress on simulations for the new 0.625m SRB core design, aiming for a thrust profile near to this graph
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
one month now from the end of 2017 operations, VAB swinging back into action to prep what it can for a possible Block I return to flight before the year is out. We have the parts already to build an entire 3rd stage
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've ordered new fairings that will offer better radiation protection, have also begun to upgrade our RF antennas and new shielded casings are on the way for our probe cores
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
another week behind us, make sure you didn't miss anything & get some additional details on events in our bit.ly/OpsSummary11-6β¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Progenitor team have released full report on last week's launch. It's a deep read. Lots to do before the next one! bit.ly/Progenitor-PR19 tl;dr: most successful flight w/most problems too! Solutions for everything, but time tight. Block I launch NET 12/12, Block II NET Jan 2018
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Simon has informed us that the Progeny flight report is delayed at least a day, everyone still discussing implications of the radiation data
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
programmers are still stymied as to what caused the flight computer to crash during the last mission but glad it didn't lead to mission fail
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new addition to bit.ly/AFCS_KSA will allow more arbitrary data logging, allowing us to release instrument data with flight telemetry
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
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
serious data analysis begins today for last week's Progeny mission; Lead Engineer Simon has told Drew to expect a report on Wednesday
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
an incredible rocket launch, some fancy pattern flying & new moonlet! Get all the details kerbalspace.agency/?p=5953
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VAB crew felt overworked these past few launches & management concurs. New build times extended 0.5wks: 2.5wks for Mk5-I and 3wks for Mk5-II
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
for now we only need to provide runway security for Civvie missions but while we are ready we do not anticipate any antagonistic actions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we were not going to allow this until later but w/ temp suspension of Mk5 program we moved timetable up as there is a good deal of backlog
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
tents once again popping up near the Monolith but no worries, this time they're expected. Gov't program to allow visitors has sent 1st batch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
note also the loss of some data was simply due to the crash of the AFCS during ascent (and helped us pinpoint exactly when code crashed out)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the graphical plot normally @ the top of telemetry data was both corrupted & overran its 10min buffer anyways, that was really the only loss
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
almost all data from the last Mk5 launch was recovered, now real work can begin to understand how it all went down bit.ly/Mk5_Tlm_10-31-β¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's still undecided if we will also provide live video but if not the vessel graphics will still update to show current state of the craft
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the long wait between Flight Tracker updates will soon be gone when we start streaming live tlm data with the Ops Tracker @ start of next yr
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
data scrubbing is the task of the day for Progenitor teams - recovered data seems to have suffered damage during flight for some reason
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
tl;dr: 11/7 launch pushed to NET 11/22; Block II pushed to NET Dec; lots of re-thinking & re-designing needs to be done after data analysis
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all day spent working to get science & telemetry data from rocket has been a total success! Now, all the bad news: bit.ly/ProgenitorPR18
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch video up! You can see how soon second stage lit off & rocket's bad spin by end of 3rd stage + civvie footage! youtube.com/watch?v=iaRcGIβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mortimer has bit.ly/FinanceReport_β¦ published, showing our slimmest profit margin to date (751F). If yesterday's launch had failed... ouch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
note: new shorthand for Block I & II designations: Mk5-I & Mk5-II. Using B1 deemed confusing as there is a Mk1-B1 w/ "B1" not meaning Block
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
actually 3rd stage burned out traveling 2km/s but by then it was out of the atmosphere. 1.8km/s is how fast it was going when it hit 70km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
in addition to altitude (493km), yesterday's flight also set new bit.ly/KSARecords for speed (1.8km/s) and distance traveled (993km)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all day so far spent working to get the recovered rocket dismantled so we can retrieve data - it's all pretty badly burnt up outside & in!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
post-launch ops closed out, payload is home & a tired but super-happy Progenitor team retires. What a day! Our expectations were blown away
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
\[0_o]/ there will be a LOT of analysis to do this flight w/ its unexpected success so don't expect report tmrw, but we did promise a video
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
WE HAVE AN INTACT PAYLOAD!! Recovery team says it is well-roasted & we may have to write off some of the reusable parts - hopefully data OK!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
post-launch operations are underway while we eagerly await word from the recovery team. Can confirm both solid boosters splashed downrange
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tongjess is working its way around behind the island where the payload should have splashed down, we expect confirmation in about 15-20min
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
RT @DKerman_KSA: if you're watching the Flight Tracker & are confused, the chute deployment is just what we *hope* has happened by now
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
initial fears have eased once we realized rocket fell behind mtn on island w/abandoned C7 base, but we still don't have chute confirmation
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
cheers from launch ctrl as we regained signal after 20s of comm blackout - it survived! Manual chute deploy cmd sent @ 2.5km but then LOS π
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket just exceeded 2km/s velocity & is slamming sideways into the atmosphere as you read these very words. Moment of truth is upon us...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
RT @DKerman_KSA: everybody hold on to your butts, this sucker is coming in hot!!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tongjess is recovering the KerBalloon & then prepping for payload recovery also as rocket is falling back towards KSC, now 21km downrange
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
however although rocket is still in a flat spin according to tlm data it has stopped rolling, which will not help with heat distribution
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are hoping the larger surface area will both help to brake the rocket & distribute heat enough to not allow any parts to lose integrity
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
apokee reached at last, rocket is now falling, still in a flat spin. We have no idea how it will handle broadsiding the atmosphere @ >2km/s!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
RT @DKerman_KSA: if we'd had any idea we probably would have put in some altitude updates or something for the Flight Tracker. Almost there!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the look on Wernher's face is priceless seeing all this additional science data come in from a region of space we never meant to reach today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket is above LKO @ 370.5km ASL traveling 938m/s, only 26km downrange thanks to a very early 2nd stage boost from large wobble @ stage sep
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Val is on final approach to land & her maneuver kept her on-target to get some great footage! We will have a launch video to share tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket is in a flat spin after BECO-3 but still holding together & ascending to an insane apokee of 493km!! WHAT?! We had no idea... [0_0]
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
AFCS crashed during 3rd stage boost but as designed it returned manual control & Lanalye says launch team is following procedure perfectly
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
oooh the tense faces of launch controllers willing rocket to hold together during 1st stage boost! 3rd stage has now just lit for final push
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
(first stage!) booster ignition & lift off! 67.2kN of thrust push the Mk5 off the pad at 4Gs - but things will speed up quick. Too quick?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-1m] tune in to bit.ly/ProgenyMk5B1-2 for live ascent updates. Val has throttled back & pitched up hard to slow down. May overshoot
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-2m] AFCS has control, we are now in terminal count. Rocket switching to internal power & RF comms. Val is on her approach, looking good
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] final general poll - Wx: GO, Range: GO, Flight: GO, Tracking: GO, Civvie: GO, Ops Director: Launch permission granted! πGO PROGENYπ
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-10m] Val has received take off clearance & will depart west, swing north then back around south to pass the pad & set up her timed appr
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] Tongjess reports range is clear, bunker crew reports pad is clear. RSO has closed the range. FTS & booster engines are now ARMED
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-20] still no word from Lymun, but at least we know they are out there! Val has already begun to taxi out to Rwy27 to prepare for takeoff
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30] we currently have heavy clouds overhead but clear skies are following! Wx has given the GO to proceed into final countdown !!π!!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tongjess is back on station & all launch support personnel are returning to their duties to get everything back in place to resume countdown
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
3rd balloon has been released. If we have to scrub into tmrw there is surplus for 3 more that can be built prior to launch after 4th sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tongjess is returning after confirming Lymun is out there on station in moderate seas. Hopefully we'll be sending a rocket their way soon!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Tongjess will recover the second balloon shortly then head out east to check on MSV Lymun, as we still have not had any comms from them
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
scrub operations complete, rocket is in standby w/new L-0 uploaded, pad secure. Bill & Bob already back at KSC prepping the third balloon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
decision has been made & we are scrubbing for this day cycle - will resume the countdown from L-30m @ 01:28 UTC for a 01:58 UTC launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[HOLD] Good news is storm remains to the south & moving off to sea but bad news is clouds aren't going with it. We see no clear sky to west
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've let go the 2nd balloon to provide an update on upper-level winds in the event that we have clearance to launch later in the window
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[HOLD] clouds remain persistent. We said earlier window closes @ 22:03 UTC but that means we need to pickup the count no later than 2133Z
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[HOLD] pockets of clear skies passing by but none large enough. Umbarg reports a storm is approaching them but it should remain south of us
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Tongjess has moved off station to recover the KerBalloon launched earlier. Bill & Bob remain out in the field with one more ready to go
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[HOLD] Wx still red. With 30min left in countdown we need a very clear horizon to the west for a large enough cloud coverage gap to proceed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we will have weather updates every 20 mins throughout the launch window, which extends to 1hr before sunset so 2203Z is latest we can launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
additionally video recordings can provide valuable clues in the event of an ascent failure but are useless if they can't see rocket clearly
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Range Safety Officer needs to have clear sight on rocket to determine if it is off trajectory - we can't rely on tlm data if comms go down
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] rehearsal complete, rocket is GO, launch team is GO, assets are GO but unfortunately weather remains red for cloud coverage
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-45m] still no word from Lymun, launch rehearsal begins regardless. Lanalye confided to us she has some sneaky launch anomalies thrown in
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-55m] Jeb & Val have Civvie #3 all checked out & ready to go, Val is climbing aboard to get preflight completed prior to launch rehearsal
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
they will continue to attempt to contact us for the next 5 minutes before waiting until later in the countdown to keep the comms net clear
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h] MSV Lymun is expected to be stationed 180km downrange but we have not heard from them yet. Comms at that distance can be iffy @ times
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h20m] Bob & Bill took a crew a few km west of KSC to setup & release our weather balloon, now rising towards the upper atmosphere
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h30m] setup of the eastern range has begun with MSV Tongjess arriving on station to provide radar tracking & range security & recovery
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h55m] fuel lvls holding, pad clearing for booster engine checks. All other rocket systems nominal, no issues being worked by launch team
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
lots of lawn areas already staked out. If you're looking to catch the launch these locations are all that are available for safe (external) viewing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
as the fueling crews clean up after themselves and secure the pad for launch, tank levels will be monitored closely to ensure no leaks
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h40m] topping off the tanks, rocket now weighs just 1.701t, lofting a lighter set of payload instruments on this flight totaling 25kg
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h55m] rocket is online, instructions loaded & preliminary system check is clean, crews on the pad have a GO to begin 3rd stage fueling
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
you can see the latest changes to our flight control software via bit.ly/AFCS_Changes - primarily operations code for this mission
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h10m] we are GO for preflight, all controllers on console. Rocket is being powered up & initial ops load commencing to setup for fueling
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
mounting all wrapped up - cutting it close to preflight as an umbilical needed replacement after a small animal tried to make it into a nest
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h40m] Flight Director Lanalye is assembling her launch team for final briefing prior to preflight. It'll be the same ascent as last time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the weather over KSC right now is mostly cloudy w/low clouds @ 2.4km, surface winds light & variable. Currently Wx is RED for cloud coverage
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h] mounting ops are proceeding w/o issue & weather data is now being gathered from Umbarg, Kravass & airships roaming thruout the region
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
expect regular updates at these major events throughout the countdown as we work towards an on-time launch later today @ 19:58 UTC!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5h20m] time to get down to it! Rocket has left the VAB for the launch pad, no rain or high winds prevent mounting ops from commencing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-4)
10/31
#2π07:01:20 π 09:11:41
#3π13:02:11 π 15:12:32 !!π!!
#4π19:03:02 π 21:13:23
11/1
#1π01:03:53 π 03:14:14
@ KSC (UTC-4)
10/31
#2π07:01:20 π 09:11:41
#3π13:02:11 π 15:12:32 !!π!!
#4π19:03:02 π 21:13:23
11/1
#1π01:03:53 π 03:14:14
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ProgenyMk5B1-2 pre-launch ops will begin @ 14:38 UTC. As usual, Flight Tracker is set to carry operations & ascent updates
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
β
Tracking Stn β
Launch Ctrl β
VAB β
Operations
everything has checked out & @DKerman_KSA says we are now πGO FOR LAUNCHπ tomorrow!
everything has checked out & @DKerman_KSA says we are now πGO FOR LAUNCHπ tomorrow!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mk5 is loaded up & being marshaled into place for rollout tomorrow, work already being started on the boosters for bit.ly/ProgenyMk5B1-3
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
β
Tracking Stn β
Launch Ctrl βVAB βOperations
Flight Director Lanalye reports her team is all ready to go after a full day of launch drills
Flight Director Lanalye reports her team is all ready to go after a full day of launch drills
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tracking Stn reports roof dish is now offline, 2 grnd dishes rdy for data reception tomorrow, w/ VAB roof dish also set as tertiary backup
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
pad won't be empty tomorrow. Everyone @ KSC is working hard today to ensure that everything is in place & ready to support tomorrow's launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
smooth approach & landing, Val is taxiing in, says she feels comfortable with the procedure & is ready to catch a rocket launch tomorrow!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
once again early, once again compensating Val had the pad in sight at L-2s - a bit tight but still would have worked. Descending to land now
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a minute early for this approach, Val did a 360Β° turnabout to burn time and got the pad in frame at L-5s for a good view. Doing another run
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Val arrived late, forgot to factor in the time needed to turn around and begin to head back. Setting up another practice run, L-0 in 9min
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
so, the idea is that while keeping a constant speed & direction, you know that's how long it will take you to come back the opposite way
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
1st pass made to setup distance, Val coming about & will time her trip southward from when she passes launch pad to return for L-0 in 5 mins
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Val just took off to run some laps in the Civvie to practice setting up for capturing tomorrow's launch. Jeb is advising from Flight Ctrl
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Everyone have a great weekend & don't forget there's a lunch next Tuesday! Catch up on this past week via bit.ly/OpsSummary10-2β¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
every launch w/ balloons so far has been budgeted for 3. We expect to build up a surplus & upon reaching 10 extra only order more as needed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
3 KerBalloons are being prepped for next week's launch. If we use them all up due to multiple delays, 3 more will be in supply already Mon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've also made sure the rocket has only one way to know that it has landed & execution should end that will trigger only after chute deploy
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new bit.ly/AFCS_KSA code was pushed yesterday, software team has ensured that *any* booster ignition failure is now handled properly
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today the VAB is stacking the rocket while the science team finishes up preparing the payload instruments for final integration on Monday
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tracking Stn has declared our 3rd dish to be fully commissioned & operational. Work now begun to take roof dish offline for removal
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
in which our Operations Director @DKerman_KSA explains why it'll be a while before we get photos from space: kerbalspace.agency/?p=5890
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
USI liquid fuel engine has arrived today so final Mk5 booster assembly can wrap up & allow rocket to be stacked tomorrow. All is on sched
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no luck finding any remains of last week's Block I stage 3 on the sea floor. Lots of clutter down there, pieces most likely too small
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
once again in collaboration w/ Coatl Aerospace we have our first dedicated accelerometer instrument. Will be a payload for a Nov Mk5 flight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although no space photos, we are looking into placing a camera on the 2nd-stage booster, which might get higher than a KerBalloon w/Block I
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
why don't we have photos from space yet? It's complicated, we asked @DKerman_KSA to write a post about it sometime this wk when he has time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
SRB order awaits results of 1st successful Block I flight, as their more powerful constant thrust may require change to solid fuel burn rate
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mortimer confirms we have all but the SRBs ordered & on the way for our Progeny Mk5 Block II launch next month, launch date still NET 11/15
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tiberdyne has agreed to pay us in full if we put together another launch, so bit.ly/ProgenyMk5B1-3 scheduled for 11/7 @ 21:21 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
thx to re-using most of what is recovered (payload trusses, chute, probecore) a new Mk5 Block I costs only 1,973F vs. 2,665F for everything
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VAB already hard at work getting the next Block I assembled for launch at the end of the month. Replacements for reusable parts are on order
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
tl;dr - new ignitor needed, not new booster. Code flaws patched. Unsure if Tiberdyne wants a relaunch. 2nd Block I launch confirmed on sched
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
report on yesterday's launch failure is posted: bit.ly/ProgenitorPR17
and here's the video that goes with it: youtube.com/watch?v=TTrfzeβ¦
and here's the video that goes with it: youtube.com/watch?v=TTrfzeβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've already found the embarrassing code oversight that caused the rest of the launch mishap, so a report later this afternoon is expected
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
first stage booster is undergoing inspection in the VAB to determine if it was a bad ignitor or a mis-fire that caused it to fail yesterday
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a brief update to our bit.ly/OpsSummary10-1β¦, including Desk Notes. We will have more information released over this weekend
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
post-launch operations will be carried out & a full investigation will be conducted this wknd. Will have brief Weekly Ops Review update soon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Lymun has searched & reports no sign of the rocket which means it either completely broke apart hitting the water or ruptured & sank :/
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
1st stage booster remains inert, crew approaching for inspection. Flight team still reviewing logs, code & video to determine what happened
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb has landed, unfortunately he did not time his pass well & when he went to turn to bring nose cam around he had already flown past pad
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Lymun is getting underway to head for the area ~8km downrange where the rocket hit the water to search for anything remaining on surface
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bunker crew keeping an eye on 1st stage booster still on the pad - say no smoke or evidence of mis-fire. Will wait 15min before approaching
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are assessing a launch anomaly - still not entirely sure what just happened but the rocket ascended on 2nd stage booster then splashed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-1m] for live updates of planned events during the launch head over to the Flight Tracker now! bit.ly/ProgenyMk5B1-1
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-2m] terminal count begun, rocket switching to internal power, EC drain monitored, RF comms active, AFCS now has full ctrl of the rocket
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] final poll - Wx: GO, Range: GO, Flight: GO, Tracking: GO, Civvie: GO, Ops Director: Launch permission granted! πGO PROGENYπ
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
camera feeds test from Civvie good. Jeb can't see them, but controllers will direct him as rocket ascends to hold visual as long as possible
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
should Jeb arrive late on target, FD Lanalye has authorized him to bank straight towards the pad so nose cam can pickup the launch instead
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-10m] Jeb has takeoff clearance to depart & setup for his flyby, passing 2.5km west of KSC @ 1km ASL to capture the launch from wing cam
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] Range Safety Officer reports MSV Lymun finds eastern range to be clear, rocket boosters are now ARMED & manual FTS activated
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
winds aloft, including upper-level winds, continue to remain in the green & will be monitored by ascending balloon, now reaching upper atmo
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-20m] Tongjess reports recovery craft has been inspected & is rdy for its duties. Sun is up, skies are mostly clear & surface winds calm
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] rehearsal complete, no issues, all systems nominal. Wx is GO for final countdown & Jeb is taxiing out to Rwy27 to hold for takeoff
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-45m] another launch rehearsal underway, this time mainly to confirm that all systems have been properly recycled after the earlier scrub
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-55m] Jeb is back aboard the Civvie and starting to run through his preflight checklist. Launch Ctrl has all members back on console
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h] we can still hear MSV Tongjess, Val says they have traveled around & found good sea conditions for recovery operations in the region
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h20m] balloon release reported, Tracking Stn will pickup signal w/in a min. Jeb is helping ground crews get the Civve untied & inspected
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with the wind shift Bob has returned to KSC & he's already headed out w/Bill & crew in 2 UTVs SE of KSC to release the 2nd weather balloon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h30m] winds have died down & shifted from the SE, looks like the storm is moving off. MSV Lymun is reporting better conditions also
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
catch up on the events of this past week via bit.ly/OpsSummary10-1β¦ - we will update it later with details of the Mk5 launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all launch assets have completed scrub procedures & are now standing by. We will have a weather report for next launch attempt @ 23:51 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket has been reconfigured after launch team sent over this set of instructions. Very nice to no longer have to do a full system reboot!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch has been scrubbed. New L-0 time is 01:21 UTC and hopefully the weather will be better then. We will resume the count at L-1h30min
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[HOLD] Wx remains red, still dry but if no improvements are seen in the next 20min we will scrub for this day cycle & try again 4th sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[HOLD] Wx remains red, rocket remains in good condition & all assets remain ready although Civvie also had to be tied down against the wind
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[HOLD] Wx remains red. Conditions are not deteriorating but neither are they improving. Our daytime window closes @ 17:25 UTC, 1hr to sunset
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[HOLD] Wx remains red. No rain still tho MSV Lymun reports that rain has started. Tongjess downrange is out of the weather in moderate seas
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
high winds have roughed up the bay waters enough Bob & crew have had to put ashore. MSV Lymun has recovered the balloon released earlier
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
winds have shifted out of the NNE, but thx to lower launch angle the Mk5 is now less susceptible to easterly winds tipping it over westward
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[HOLD] Wx remains red, surface winds are increasing up to 20kts & crews are moving back in to put some extra tie downs on the rocket base
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[HOLD] the storm is staying out to sea but its outer bands of clouds are sweeping over us. We will have weather updates every 20min
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] rehearsal complete, no issues reported but weather has put a HOLD on the countdown due to cloud coverage currently being above 80%
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-45m] all launch assets report ready for rehearsal to ensure everyone is clear on their tasks & responsibilities during the actual launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-55m] Jeb is briefed, has performed his exterior inspection & is climbing aboard Civvie #3 on schedule to preflight the aircraft
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're basing recovery estimates on the Mk4, which had an ascent profile similar to the one we are flying today & traveled as far as 135km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h] Val says hello from today's recovery ship MSV Tongjess, 180km downrange. she's replacing a recovery crew member on a medical leave
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
almost time to get firmly situated if you want a good spot to view the launch outside, big crowds of friends & family on Friday launches
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the weather monitoring package the balloon carries will keep us informed of wind conditions aloft, including hazardous vertical wind shear
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h20m] we have release & AOS of the high-altitude KerBalloon, set to drift thru our launch corridor as it enters the upper atmo @ 18km+
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h30m] range monitoring duties have fallen to MSV Lymun for this launch; it is now stationed 14km offshore & getting set up w/our RSO
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
meanwhile Jeb is suiting up in the ready room of the Astronaut Complex & will be reporting to Lanch Ctrl shortly for his final briefing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
winds still out of the north, so Bob will be taking our recovery boat a few kilometers out into the bay for release of the weather balloon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h55m] no leaks or other issues reported, pad evacuation underway so we can move into system & ignition checks for all three boosters
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
pad is cleaned up, fuel trucks have departed & we're in a wait period while fuel levels are monitored to ensure no leaks in tanks or lines
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h55m] fueling ops wrapping up, the rocket now weighs 1.713t, which is lighter than older Mk5s thanks to new fins massing 0.5x as much
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h55m] rocket sys nominal, valves open & crews have a GO from FD Lanalye to begin loading 109kg of liquid fuels into the 3rd stage tanks
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all instructions have been accepted by the rocket & system checks are underway prior to clearing crews on the pad to begin fueling the tanks
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket is powered up & instructions are being onloaded. You can check out what's new in our ops & AFCS code via: bit.ly/AFCS_Changes
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h10m] GO for preflight! Cloud cover has increased & we are concerned about a storm reported out to sea. Pic a few mins ago before sunset
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
of course, we are interested to see how the rocket holds up under increased pressure from the longer boost. Doubt we'll break the record tho
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the longer-burning 1st stage booster is significant as the 2nd & 3rd boosters will have greater thrust at the higher altitude they start in
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the new 1st stage SRB will burn over 2x longer than normal, for 20s. The 2nd stage booster will burn longer as well, for 10s instead of 7s
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h40m] team assembled in Launch Ctrl for flight briefing. You can see details for our ascent today in this report kerbalspace.agency/?p=5725#ascent
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
currently over KSC we are experiencing partly-cloudy skies w/ winds out of the north - which is a bit iffy but doable if it comes down to it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h] beginning to gather Wx data from Umbarg, Kravass & numerous airships/MSVs that have been plying the region over the past few hours
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket is secured to the launch base, still about an hour left of mounting ops tho to get it connected to umbilicals & prepped for fueling
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob & Bill are giving their two KerBalloons a final inspection. Each carries a USI weather instrument to help us monitor upper-level winds
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5h20] rocket is on its way to the launch pad. Here is our launch ops schedule for today, note the new additions for Civvie integration
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
1.5hrs of safety drills complete: sheltering, evacuation, fueling, fire extinguishing & pad incursion all covered. Pre-launch ops next
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today's early start is due mainly to some mandatory safety training all launch crew will undergo as it's been 6 months since our last review
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good day, space tweeps! Who's ready for a rocket launch? KSC already starting to come alive to prep for pre-launch ops to begin @ 14:00 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-4)
10/20
#2π 08:34:17 π12:24:47
#3π 14:35:08 !!π!! π18:25:38
#4π 20:35:59
10/21
#1π00:26:29 π 02:36:50
#2π06:27:20
@ KSC (UTC-4)
10/20
#2π 08:34:17 π12:24:47
#3π 14:35:08 !!π!! π18:25:38
#4π 20:35:59
10/21
#1π00:26:29 π 02:36:50
#2π06:27:20
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all the astronauts are back & rdy to lend support to tomorrow's launch:
Bob & Bill - balloon release
Jeb - aerial footage
Val - recovery ops
Bob & Bill - balloon release
Jeb - aerial footage
Val - recovery ops
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
thread. Our Operations Director shares some candid thoughts on tomorrow's launch - will the rocket hold together? Only 1 way to find out... twitter.com/DKerman_KSA/stβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are GO FOR LAUNCH tomorrow! Everyone has checked in & Ops Dir Drew confirms all is ready here @ KSC. Prelaunch ops will begin @ 14:00 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mk5 rocket final integration going well so far, crew on break for lunch. Will close up the payload & run final overall checks this afternoon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch readiness checks are underway across the KSC campus in order to ensure everything is in place to properly support tomorrow's mission
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
stacking went well yesterday & today VAB is laying the rocket horizontal for final integration, which includes installation of the payload
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
L-2 days to launch of bit.ly/ProgenyMk5b1-1, the first Mk5 Block I! Get hype! Much excite! Who plans to be around to watch live on Friday?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lanalye is happy with the new launch operations schedule and Jeb has a GO - we look forward to seeing a launch from a new angle on Friday!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Flight Director Lanalye is drilling the Progenitor launch team today for the Block I launch & also working in the Civvie aerial footage
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
science team finalizing payload instruments for delivery to the VAB 2day while workers there get all stages of the rocket stacked vertically
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we just realized our Mk5 Block II instagram post caption included a typo: "sun-orbital" - it's not *that* powerful haha!
or is it?
or is it?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
tl;dr: first 4 Block I launches should lock in an optimal ascent profile for the rocket by the end of the year based on analyzed Mk5/4 data
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
report on last week's Mk5 launch is up & we have plans in place for this week's 1st flight of the Block I: bit.ly/Progenitor-PR4
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
kicking off our 400th day of operations! Tracking Stn team on console waiting for word from KerBalloon team on how the weather looks today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Progenitor teams spent a full day reviewing & comparing telemetry data. Here is the data from last week's flight: bit.ly/ProgenyMk5-6_Tβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have our 2nd Block I launch contracted for Kerbolyov Design Bureau. bit.ly/ProgenyMk5b1-2 is scheduled for liftoff 10/31 @ 19:58 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have a new entry for our bit.ly/KSARecords on longest recovery distance from KSC. Got any ideas for other additions? Let us know!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
word is they will not be formally charged with any offense - Presider is said to be considering loosening restrictions on Monolith visits
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
trucks from Umbarg came today to transport the pilgrims back, they left without resistance, seemed satisfied even with their short stay
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
post-launch ops complete & we are all wrapped up for this week of operations. Get all the details here: bit.ly/OpsSummary10-9β¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no attempts were made to interfere with this launch & it's nice that not all religious kerbs are opposed to our actions (actively at least)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
as soon as the Mk5 was out of the VAB early today workers began the assembly of our first Mk5 Block I. Final parts arrive @ start of next wk
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Progenitor engineers will analyze telemetry data early next week & decide how we want to send up the Block I at the end of the week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ok *now* we can celebrate! Lymun recovery crew just pulled payload from the water. Mission success! Bring that sweet science on home! \[0o]/
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
post-launch ops underway as we ensure all spent boosters splashed or are recovered, pad is cleaned up & KerBalloon is recovered by Tongjess
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
payload will be floating around a while, but this is also part of the reason the empty fuel tank stays attached & fairings remain airtight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
25s comm loss & signal regained for chute deploy confirmation 66km downrange *just* before horizon cut off signal. Lymun is already moving
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
standing by for atmospheric interface, rocket remains tail-first so engine takes the brunt of heating during re-entry, comm loss expected
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
nearly at apokee & science instruments are working great, lots of data showing up onboard. Rocket's ballistic arc will re-enter in a few min
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are back in space once again, coasting to an apokee of 107km. Science team is keeping careful watch on payload instruments, now active
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all nominal, 3rd stage engine auto-throttling to increase thrust to full while not increasing dynamic pressure worked great, MECO just now
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
LIFTOFF! 1st stage booster has ignited sending the Mk5 roaring off the pad @ 4Gs toward space! Shorter coast times will make events go quick
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-1m] head to bit.ly/ProgenyMk5-6 to see real-time updates for planned events during the flight. 1 more quick poll @ T-30s then launch!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-2m] rocket is transitioning to internal power, umbilicals pulled, RF comms 5x5, AFCS monitoring EC levels. All systems remain nominal
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] Final polling: Wx GO, Range GO, Flight GO, Tracking GO, Ops Director GO! πGO PROGENYπ AFCS is monitoring time, rdy for terminal count
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the unseen weather we are most worried about, wind shear, is currently negative according to latest balloon readings from the upper-atmo
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
controllers giving all their systems a final complete once-over to be ready to announce their status during final poll. We can see Wx is GO!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] eastern range is clear & RSO has given the GO to arm the rocket, Flight Termination System also activated (under manual RSO control)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-20m] final check-in from Lymun reports they are ready to track down & recover payload. KerBalloon ascent remains nominal, now @ 18.2km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although we don't need to hold, if we did we can now update the launch time on the rocket without having to do a full system restart. whoo!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] GO for final countdown! Skies clear enough we were able to see Mun & Minmus set together just a few mins ago, winds light from west
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-45m] preflight complete, no issues being worked, all assets on station & time for a full launch dress rehearsal before final countdown
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are not sure what planned ascent changes will do for downrange travel - could be anywhere from 50-130km so we just split down the middle
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h] MSV Lymun has called in from 90km downrange, reporting on station. They have cruised around & found mostly moderate seas in the area
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all viewing areas are open, as usual for a Friday launch things are already pretty crowded out there so hurry up & claim your spot(s)!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KB crew remaining out on standby w/2nd backup balloon to release in event of an early envelope failure or no pass thru/near ascent corridor
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h20m] we have good release of the high-alt KerBalloon west of KSC, winds will push it through our ascent corridor as it hits upper atmo
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
for the record yes, there are northern & southern ranges already defined for highly-inclined launches we just have no reason to use them yet
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h30m] MSV Tongjess has pulled up on station offshore, working with Range Safety Officer to setup monitoring of the eastern range
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h55m] pad closeout underway, fuel levels holding, all systems nominal - Standing by for pad evacuation & booster ignition system checks
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob, Bill & a small crew are heading a few km west to get setup with their balloons to be ready for release in a little under 1 hr from now
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
if any try, they are 2.5km from the pad - we would have plenty of time to hold count & safe the rocket. They don't seem opposed to us tho
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSC security has been dispatched to keep an eye on the pilgrims & inform launch ctrl if any make attempts to approach the launch pad
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h40m] no issues during tanking, rocket now weighs 1.826t with the additional 109kg of liquid fuel aboard. Rocket system checks continue
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h55m] rocket is all booted up & initial checks are good, FD Lanalye has given the fueling teams waiting out on the pad a GO to begin ops
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
biggest change is thx to boot script upgrade, now each phase of flight that needs to be monitored is its own function. Bye-bye run codes! π
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch teams are waking up the rocket & loading up initial software - see what's new in our ops code via bit.ly/AFCS_Changes
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h10m] with no severe weather reported in the region, rocket hooked up & flight briefing complete we are GO to begin preflight!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket mounting is done, low-press storm system pulling winds out of the SW but is moving along & should leave better weather next day cycle
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
2nd tweak is new ascent code that will hold 3rd stage @ 2 TWR until dyn press (Q) falls, then throttle to full without further increasing Q
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
first tweak will be waiting for only 1Β° of pitch change instead of 1.5Β° to see how much that affects coast time, speed loss & apokee
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h40m] launch control team is reporting for briefing. We are back to an 85Β° launch angle & will be making a few addt'l ascent tweaks
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h] weather reports coming in. Skies currently mostly overcast w/low clouds but yesterday's storm system has moved off northeast at least
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
mounting going well, another archive photo gives an idea of what is involved. Unfortunately Bill is too busy w/balloon to help this time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5h20m] convoy prepping to leaving the VAB similar to this. Carry vehicle travels at 2m/s, taking ~5.5 min to travel to the pad 655m away
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
pre-launch ops almost ready to kick off, here is today's timeline w/slight adjustments to accommodate the rocket mounting on the same day
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-4)
10/13
#2π 08:10:29 π12:00:59
#3π 14:11:20 !!π!! π18:01:50
#4π 20:12:11
10/14
#1π00:02:41 π 02:13:02
#2π06:03:32
@ KSC (UTC-4)
10/13
#2π 08:10:29 π12:00:59
#3π 14:11:20 !!π!! π18:01:50
#4π 20:12:11
10/14
#1π00:02:41 π 02:13:02
#2π06:03:32
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're calling it. No Civvie coverage of this launch, but Lanalye is open to giving preparation for it another go at the start of next week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch prep will begin @ 13:36 UTC. Jeb's flight is scrubbed but we will give it one more shot after 4th sunrise if storm stays to the west
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
βοΈ Tracking Stn βοΈ Launch Ctrl βοΈ VAB βοΈ Ops
π GO PROGENY!! π Drew has finished review of all readiness reports & signed off for launch
π GO PROGENY!! π Drew has finished review of all readiness reports & signed off for launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
βοΈ Tracking Stn βοΈ Launch Ctrl βοΈ VAB β Ops
Simon reports the Mk5 final integration is complete & it is rdy for rollout to the pad tomorrow!
Simon reports the Mk5 final integration is complete & it is rdy for rollout to the pad tomorrow!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with both Tracking Stn & Launch Ctrl now rdy for launch, Jeb will take up a Civvie next sunrise to see about working in some aerial coverage
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
βοΈ Tracking Stn βοΈ Launch Ctrl β VAB β Ops
FD Lanalye reports her team is ready after drilling most of this week & reviewing all procedures
FD Lanalye reports her team is ready after drilling most of this week & reviewing all procedures
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
βοΈ Tracking Stn β Launch Ctrl β VAB β Ops
dishes calibrated & systems have been fully tested to receive rocket telemetry & send instructions
dishes calibrated & systems have been fully tested to receive rocket telemetry & send instructions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
tl;dr this rocket should be able to take payloads past Low-Kerbin Orbit (LKO), >250km. How far? We look forward to finding out on 11/15!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Progenitor introduces the Progeny Mk5 Block II, our most powerful & capable rocket to date! Get all the info here: bit.ly/Progenitor-PR3
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSC is gearing up for a full day of launch readiness checks to prepare for the bit.ly/ProgenyMk5-6 mission tomorrow. Let's go teams!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
pilgrims say they are content to sit outside their tents & pray w/o approaching the dome. We'll have to just wait & see how gov't reacts
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this is not really our problem to handle as Monolith is under gov't control now & we have no means to forcibly remove that many kerbs anyway
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no surprise, campers are all religious pilgrims, arriving overland on foot from Umbarg after gathering there from other cities via airship
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
security has been deployed to check it out, they must have made the move onto KSC property over the last night cycle but from where? No idea
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
4th sunrise has brought with it an interesting surprise: a large cluster of tents has appeared just north of the Monolith dome, est 50 kerbs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after vertical assembly is done the rocket is laid horizontal to allow easier access for final integration & loading onto the carry vehicle
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket getting stacked today. It's assembled in launch configuration for initial checkouts. Easy test: if it falls over something is wrong
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch base has been returned to the pad ahead of sunset, tomorrow it will be carefully inspected during our launch readiness reviews
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
these next 2 Mk5 flights will each include an instrument that was lost w/the 4th Mk5 launch so we can get another shot @ gathering that data
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Scientist Cheranne is overseeing completion of preparations for the Mk5 payload instruments to be delivered to the VAB for integration
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
update to our kOS boot script allows it to more easily receive new operations from KSC & also perform multiple ops: github.com/KSAMissionCtrlβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VAB workers plan to complete assembly of both boosters & 3rd stage sans payload today, will begin stacking rocket & integrate payload tmrw
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Researcher Wernher Von Kerman reports they've entered final testing period for accelerometer instrument, plan to have it rdy in <3 wks
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our 3rd tracking dish has finished its trial period & is rdy to monitor the launch Friday as tertiary backup, still some final checks to do
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch base has been moved back into the VAB to be re-pitched to 85Β° tomorrow, back out on Wed ahead of launch readiness checks on Thurs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
two high-altitude balloons are being prepped, one will be backup in case of a failure/issue w/1st balloon or a hold & need for a 2nd release
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon have suspended contract ops this week to let focus be on Mk5 assembly & also for their part in launching Wx monitoring balloon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
lots of energy in the VAB tho earlier as construction work got into full swing for the Mk5 rocket that will be launching the end of this wk
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
quiet end to the week, but exciting stuff announced during it so get caught up via bit.ly/OpsSummary10-2β¦ & have a great weekend!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the first flight of the Mk5 Block I will be on 10/20 as we need more time to order the new boosters to spec from USI, which takes a week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we ordered parts for 6 Mk5s in case we needed spare parts for inital 5 launches so we can put together one last Mk5 in a wk for 10/13 launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ProgenitorProg⦠has all the details on its 1st Mk5 contracts & scheduled launches for 10/13 & 10/20 with a Mk5 & Mk5 Block I rockets
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
biggest non-technical mumbo-jumbo takeaway: the new more powerful Mk5 Block I, with the even bigger Block II set to be finalized next week!!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Progeny Mk5 report is out covering what we've learned in comparison to the Mk4 & plans for program moving forward: bit.ly/Progenitor-PR2
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
RT @DKerman_KSA: I can say that we're prob looking @ 1-2 launches/mo starting Oct for the Mk5 & early next yr an orbital launch once/mo, for starters anyway
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
there remains several disagreements over conclusions reached in the Progeny Mk5 report, so its release has been delayed. Tomorrow? We'll see
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VAB workers are keeping busy assembling the low-altitude KerBalloons for tomorrow's mission but still lament having no big rockets to build
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
even better news is expense majority was for Progeny Mk5 & almost all future flights will be contracted rather than out of our own pocket!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mortimer is happy with bit.ly/FinanceReport_β¦ showing a good profit margin despite our 2nd-highest ever month of operational expenses
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are expecting the Progeny Mk5 report tomorrow, Drew & Simon just got done w/a whole day of meetings. Mk4 vs. Mk5 trajectory comparison
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Flight Director Lanalye has said she's willing to revisit the idea of aerial launch footage from a Civvie for the next Mk5 mission
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
since MSV Lymun is just waiting around for KerBalloon tomorrow, Flight Director Lanalye is running some rocket payload recovery drills
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
if anything, 280 chars per tweet simply means we can use less acronyms & abbreviations. Have never felt we needed more room to communicate
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Engineer Simon found a few Progenitor team members getting a jump start on data analysis - we can't even make our employees take vacay!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
doubtful current Mk5 will be able to achieve new goal. We said Mk5 would be last iteration, but never said nothing new *within* Mk5 design
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
anyone notice that bit.ly/ProgenitorProg⦠has achieved all its original Primary & Secondary goals last week? We added one more
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Deuce crash prelim report, Mk5 flight overview for this week's bit.ly/OpsSummary9-18β¦ - everyone relax this weekend you all earned it!!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
flight #5 summary & basic analysis will be in ops report later today & early next month there will be a full review of the Mk5's performance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
both payloads back at KSC, launch cleanup still continues. Everyone on Progenitor program is looking forwards to a nice 3-day weekend π
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
while Tongjess recovered the rocket payload, Lymun was also recovering the balloon payload shortly after launch, both headed back to KSC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
post-launch ops well underway after everyone done congratulating each other. Our 1st fully-automated rocket flight was a complete success!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tongjess is still several minutes away but their spotter on board reports she had good full chute & payload splashdown through her scope
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L+6m] we have successful chute deploy! Payload descending 36km downrange WSW of KSC almost on top of the abandoned C7 Aerospace base
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L+4m] just about to re-enter atmo, then momentary comm blackout & we expect to get chute deploy signal before rocket falls below horizon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L+2m] MECO w/disappointing 87km apokee, we expected more this launch. Well, at least the rocket didn't blow up? Standing by for re-entry
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L+1m] ascent is nominal, throttle control has performed as expected this time during 3rd stage boost, now pushing for space & 100+km apokee
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
LAUNCH! Mk5 has left the pad w/nominal pitch, now spinning up thru 1st stage boost & will reach upwards of 330m/s by the time stage expires
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-1m] now is the time to head over to bit.ly/ProgenyMk5-5 if you haven't already to catch real-time updates throughout the flight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-2m] this is it! AFCS has control & if all goes well will maintain control throughout the flight. Controllers will be watching for errors
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] one more time: Wx GO, Range GO, Flight GO, Tracking GO, Launch clearance get! πGO PROGENY!π Clouds to west but won't reach us in time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tracking Stn has the balloon passing through 21km, still climbing steady. Upper-level winds continue to look favorable w/no shear detected
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] waters, airspace & pad clear, we are GO to arm the rocket & Flight Termination System (which is still a manually-controlled system)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-20m] confirmation received that Tongjess is ready for deployment of recovery vessel while RSO & Lymun prep to enact range safety measures
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] final count is a GO! Balloon data coming back favorable, surface winds good & skies clearing. Jool & Moho near appulse, Eve above
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-45m] final operations load has rocket standing by for terminal count, no issues during preflight & final launch rehearsal now underway
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h] again stationed just 50km downrange, we'll see how far MSV Tongjess needs to move in order to recover the rocket from the Kerblantic
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
high-altitude balloons can sometimes fall short of their maximum altitude but usually not until past 20km which will still be plenty of data
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h20m] balloon released, headed up for 24.9km. Full Mun at zenith gave the team out in the Grasslands plenty of natural light to work by
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h30m] MSV Lymun has reported in for range monitoring duties while Bob & Bill have also commed to say the balloon is ready for release
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h55m] pad is configured for launch, fuel levels holding, crew retreating to safe distance or bunker so we can run engine ignitions tests
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob & Bill have headed out with 2 UTVs a few km to the northwest to prep for balloon launch, wind will carry it thru Mk5's ascent corridor
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we hear lots of family & friends got out of work early today to see the launch so get your spots marked out early it's going to be crowded!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h40m] pad cleanup post fueling ops is underway while we monitor fuel levels for leaks & Range Safety Officer begins eastern range setup
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h55m] fueling ops underway to top off the 3rd stage with 109kg of liquid propellant that will be used up at a max rate of 3.599kg/s
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
instructions load was good for initial setup of the rocket's flight control system. Not much new this flight: bit.ly/AFCS_ChangeLog
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h10m] we are GO for preflight, storms by Umbarg but they will pass to the south. Waking up & initializing the rocket & setup for tanking
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no ascent changes are planned except for code fixes should have 3rd stage engine properly hold TWR of 3 until easing of dynamic pressure
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h40m] launch team prepping to go on console by first receiving a final briefing from Flight Director Lanalye & Lead Engineer Simon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
tune in to bit.ly/ProgenyMk5-5 for updates after fueling, final count, terminal count & liftoff. Also any launch hold updates
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h] here we go, rolling into pre-launch ops. Take note of the addition @ L-1h20m when we launch the balloon to ascend to max alt by L-0
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
#OTD in 2016 we launched our 1st ever rocket (bit.ly/Progeny_Mk1-A1) and today we plan to launch our 1st fully automated rocket!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Progenitor have ordered their own set of KB units but enough surplus also available that KB program is letting Progenitor use one of theirs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill & Bob are helping close out the KerBalloon for today's launch. Thx to KB ops defer, enough parts available to construct on short notice
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
#2π
07:10:42 π10:34:43
#3π 13:11:33 !!π!! π16:35:34
#4π 19:12:24 π22:36:25
9/23
#1π 01:13:15 π04:37:16
#3π 13:11:33 !!π!! π16:35:34
#4π 19:12:24 π22:36:25
9/23
#1π 01:13:15 π04:37:16
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
workday complete, Mk5 readiness review has us set for launch! πGO PROGENY!π Pre-launch ops will run from a 4hr count starting @ 13:56 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
tl;dr - we will launch a high-alt KerBalloon from the range monitoring vessel or KSC prior to launch to check for any wind shear conditions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
assuming launch readiness checks complete w/o issue today we are GO for launch tomorrow! Final anomaly report: bit.ly/ProgenitorPR16
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch base is repaired & will be back out on the pad shortly, followed by the rocket. Launch readiness checks around KSC proceeding apace
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
while the Progenitor team gets back to work solving yesterday's break-up, Mortimer begins filling out purchase orders for replacement parts
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
review of today's launch still underway. Launch #5 still on unless flaw is not uncovered by end of tomorrow or found to be flight critical
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're pulling the launch base back to the VAB to replace the upper launch rail that's taken a beating w/so many launches close together
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
range assets are standing down, pad crew is out for post-launch inspection & Progenitor team will assemble for flight review later today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are not speculating on any reasons, launch ctrl currently working through ascent failure procedures to collect all the data for review
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've suffered an inflight anomaly. Signal loss occurred at L+1m4s & visual tracking reported an explosion and break up of the rocket
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L+1m] 2nd stage decouple proper this time, rocket had a good coast to 3rd stage burn but throttle went to max immediately upon ignition
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
liftoff!! Skies are again just barely within limits for launch. 1st stage booster pushing the rocket off the pad at 4Gs for initial ascent
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-1m] now is the time to head over to bit.ly/ProgenyMk5-4 if you haven't already to catch real-time updates throughout the flight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-2m] AFCS has taken over control for these final minutes, controllers monitoring closely what it is doing to ensure proper execution
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] Final polling: Wx GO, Range GO, Flight GO, Tracking GO, Launch clearance granted! πGO PROGENY!π Standing ready for terminal count
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
final test of our two payload instruments returned nominal results, running them on the pad & checking that results are as expected
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] eastern range is now closed, rocket & FTS are ARMED. Tongjess reports no radar contacts, RSO reports pad is clear. Count continues
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-20m] final check-in for MSV Lymun & they are ready, report sea conditions remain well within safety margins for recovery operations
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] we are GO for final countdown sequence. Winds out of the WNW pose no problems, clouds are scattered & could be a potential issue
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-45m] all range assets in place, final code loaded for terminal count, no issues posted - time now to conduct a full launch rehearsal
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h] MSV Lymun has already reported in for recovery operations readiness. We have moved her closer to shore, just 50km downrange now
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h30m] all 3 engines nominal, wrapping up remaining preflight tasks while MSV Tongjess has reported in ready to monitor the eastern range
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h55m] fuel levels holding, pad cleaned up & now clearing for engine checks. A small quick-response team shelters in the nearby bunker
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all viewing locations are open again, are currently lit. These areas all provide quick sheltering in the event of RUD so please stay within
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h40m] wrapping up fueling we have added 109kg of mass to the rocket, now 1.841t, a new bit.ly/KSARecords (will update post launch)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
while we get the rocket fueled up you can check out the code changes made for this flight over at bit.ly/AFCS_Changes
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h55m] we have the rocket initialized & launch control systems are online ready for fueling ops to begin out on the launch pad
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h10m] we are GO for preflight, high clouds have started to move in from the west but no storms reported in the area. Rocket waking up
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
just becuase this flight is automated doesn't mean controllers get to relax! Must monitor to ensure code running properly, jump in if needed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
once the 3rd stage ignites, it will maintain a TWR of 3 until it sees dynamic pressure decreasing, at which point it will throttle up to max
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h40m] launch team is assembling. This flight will be the first to run completely automated from T-2min & follow the normal ascent path
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
tune in to bit.ly/ProgenyMk5-4 for updates after fueling, final count, terminal count & liftoff. Also any launch hold updates
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h] launch readiness reviews were all completed & signed off on earlier this hour - cutting it close! We are cleared into pre-launch ops
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VAB finally starting to feel empty again with only a single rocket inside. Mk5 #5 finishes up final integration today ahead of rollout tmrw
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
weather outside this day cycle is looking great, no trace of the clouds & rain that came thru late yesterday. Here's hoping conditions hold
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSC is bustling already, as we finish up the last of our launch readiness reviews before being cleared into pre-launch ops @ 13:49 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-4)
9/20
#2π 07:03:54 π10:27:55
#3π 13:04:45 !!π!! π16:28:46
#4π 19:05:36 π22:29:37
9/21
#1π 01:06:27 π04:30:28
@ KSC (UTC-4)
9/20
#2π 07:03:54 π10:27:55
#3π 13:04:45 !!π!! π16:28:46
#4π 19:05:36 π22:29:37
9/21
#1π 01:06:27 π04:30:28
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have completed the analysis of today's launch. Details of the flight & plans for tomorrow can be found here: bit.ly/ProgenitorPR15
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've completed all launch readiness preps possible until today's flight review is complete, will do rest tomorrow before a 4hr launch ops
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have a short video of the Mk5 "standing up" when coming off the launch base, which is why E winds are a hazard youtube.com/watch?v=p6N0Lcβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mk5 #4 is out on the pad. Launch Ctrl & Tracking Stn will wrap up their launch readiness reviews prior to Deuce test flt after 4th sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Monolith dome is completed, made of large pre-fab pieces it's 46m tall - we still can't believe they managed to raise it in only 2wks
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have the Mk5 payload & will be performing analysis late into today to ensure we can make any changes for tomorrow's launch. Crunch time!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
workers already back on the launch pad cleaning up & resetting for Mk5 #4 rollout, readied earlier today. Turnaround will be tight for tmrw
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
that's a successful recovery! Payload landed just 31km downrange & we'll find out why when engineers review TDU. Expecting report late today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we lost signal just after the last tweet but Tongjess reports intact splashdown & is moving into position to deploy recovery craft to get it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L+7m] 25s comm blackout during re-entry was followed by successful chute deploy, Tongjess has eyes on as it descends & reports good chute
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L+6m] we've been to space & back, now waiting for re-entry LOS, AOS & chute deployment, then LOS from horizon & confirmation from Tongjess
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
surprisingly payload has only traveled 13km downrange so far, so we have Tongjess moving east to intercept & recover as Lymun is >30min away
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L+2m] MECO & we are headed up to an apokee of 104km. Controllers are completely hands-off now, just monitoring rdy to jump in if needed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L+1m] despite log, 2nd stage actually decoupled <1s after flame-out, bumping 3rd stage into large wobble but spin is holding stabilization
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
booster ignition & liftoff of the 3rd Progeny Mk5 making for space & our highest Mk5 apokee yet! Flight reports nominal ascent off pad
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-1m] we have a light 1-2kts breeze out of the east, Wx is monitoring. Manual abort works up to L-0, can be flipped w/o FD okay past T-10s
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-2m] flight computer is back in charge, monitoring EC drain as rocket switches to internal power. RF comms are 5x5 all systems nominal
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] back once again to final general poll: Wx GO, Range GO, Flight GO, Tracking GO, Launch clearance authorized! πGO PROGENY!π for reals?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
these batteries do not recharge, so altho we plugged ground power back in, the previous terminal count drained them a bit. plenty left still
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
if you check the battery lvls on bit.ly/ProgenyMk5-3 by hovering over the icon, you'll see they are more depleted than normal
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] range is clear, we are GO for rocket arming. Weather continues to look very favorable tho winds could pick up again w/ sun now risen
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-20m] MSV Lymun confirms it is still in position & rdy for recovery ops w/good sea conditions. RSO/Tongjess working to ensure clear range
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket control is reset & ready for terminal count, fuel continues to maintain levels & all rocket systems remained nominal over hold
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] controllers all back on console, control unit being re-initialized with new L-0 time. Skies clear, air dry & winds are calm
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no real new info, just a promise to keep keeping on in spite of clear religious opposition (in this case) to our scientific exploration
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have released a brief statement about the events of yesterday's launch delay, which you can read on our website: kerbalspace.agency/?p=5253
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mk5 #4 has cleared final integration checks, #5 will complete its payload integration today for final stacking tomorrow. Sched getting tight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new L-0 time is start of next daylight window @ 17:35 UTC, rocket will remain fueled all systems in standby to pickup count again @ L-30min
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
HOLD HOLD HOLD! Winds remain red. Countdown has been terminated, rocket being safed & we are working to recycle the count to L-30m w/new L-0
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-1m] bit.ly/ProgenyMk5-3 will carry live flight updates, T-30s final poll will carry w/high winds - can hold all the way up to L-0
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-2m] AFCS has control, rocket is switched to internal power & RF comms as ground umbilicals are pulled. Wind conditions remain red
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] final general poll: Wx GO, Range GO, Flight GO, Tracking GO, Launch clearance granted! πGO PROGENY!π Everyone blow hard west plz
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
winds remain above launch commit criteria but they have been variable & could die down - we only need just a few seconds of <5kts!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] eastern range is clear, pad is clear, rocket is ARMED and ready for ignition. Any incursions = hold & hold = scrub until 3rd sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-20m] final confirmation from Lymun on recovery readiness while Tongjess & RSO prepare to lock down the eastern range ahead of rocket arm
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mk5 launch raises nose to within 1Β° of vertical, any wind >5kts will push it over and it will ascend west over KSC instead of out to sea
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we'll be monitoring winds up to L-0, still 6-8kts but gusts have ceased. We can't have winds >5kts out of the east for first 3-5s of flight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] Wx GO for final count, scattered clouds will not impede visual monitoring, upper-level clouds are sparse to none. Winds however...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-45m] final operations code has been onloaded & is running, standing by for terminal count. Launch rehearsal underway in launch control
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h] still 70km downrange, MSV Lymun has commed in on schedule to report they are standing by after prepping for recovery operations
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h30m] MSV Tongjess has begun to coordinate w/RSO to get the eastern range setup for monitoring. At this time no vessels in radar range
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h55m] pad is clearing, fuel levels holding steady, engines will undergo ignition & booster systems checks to ensure good electronic ctrl
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
sunrise from outside Launch Control shows we may have clouds *and* wind to deal with this day cycle. Wind could pickup w/sun rising too
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-4)
9/19
#2π 07:00:30 !!π!! π10:24:31
#3π 13:01:21 π16:25:22
#4π 19:02:12 π22:26:13
9/20
#1π 01:03:03 π04:27:04
@ KSC (UTC-4)
9/19
#2π 07:00:30 !!π!! π10:24:31
#3π 13:01:21 π16:25:22
#4π 19:02:12 π22:26:13
9/20
#1π 01:03:03 π04:27:04
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h40m] clockwork launch prep proceeding, Lanalye runs a tight ship! Fueling done, now to monitor for leaks & prep pad for engine checks
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h55m] tanking ops are GO to refill the 3rd stage tanks with a total of 109kg liquid propellant, fuel system being configured to monitor
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good response from rocket, control unit initialized. Fuel trucks on the way to the pad while launch base is configured to receive propellant
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Wx kerbs have noted however that wind is out of the east currently @ 6-8kts, which could be a problem as Mk5 can't launch in E winds > 5kts
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h10m] no storms or otherwise bad weather noted by Umbarg or Kravass, still dark outside but no rain so we are GO to proceed w/preflight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h40m] launch team being briefed. Although everyone knows the drill from yesterday, procedure is procedure. Can't assume anyone knows all
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
tune back into bit.ly/ProgenyMk5-3 for updates with additional information on the rocket's status as launch prep progresses
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h] unfortunately this time of day not a lot of airship traffic so can only do with Wx reports from Umbarg & Kravass. Launch ops timeline
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we will issue a formal statement on today's incident after tomorrow's launch early in the day. Everybody now: π GO PROGENY!! π
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
FINALLY - emergency Assembly session ratified new maritime regs, salvage hauler from Umbarg coming to cut anchor & tow KerVoyant ship away
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have word from Sheltered Rock the gov't has taken notice, which means this could actually get at least partially resolved today?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's been on nothing but good faith ships (that rarely come by anyways) have stayed clear while new regulations are being pushed thru govt
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket is unfueled & powered down, still working on "range issue". Problem: there's no real law or regulation against what they are doing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Deuce flight testing tomorrow will be pushed back to 3rd sunrise to free up launch ctrl (which is also flight ctrl) for the Progeny launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
assuming we can get this ship out of here by then (working on it!), we will aim for the end of our 1st daytime window @ 13:40 UTC w/4h count
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've dispatched our rescue craft to relay orders to Tongjess, who will run them out to Lymun, for both crafts to standby for launch tmrw
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
right now, the only entity in the wrong is KerVoyant. We will not add ourselves to that list by doing anything rash
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this is, of course, exactly what KerVoyant intended. Launch is scrubbed today >:( here is what we're getting over all our comms channels
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
recording is looping. We've put the call out to Umbarg authorities but this whole event is rather unprecedented & will take time to resolve
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
they're blanketing all channels & if they continue to do so we'll be unable to communicate w/Tongjess or Lymun. Standby on speech transcript
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerVoyant ship has pulled up 2km offshore directly east of the launch pad and dropped anchor. Comm channels just lit up w/recorded speech
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ship continues to ignore hails, but we have a pretty good idea what is about to happen. KerVoyant is run by a deeply Monolithic family
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] HOLD COUNT - Tongjess reports the ship swung around them and is continuing uprange towards KSC, ID'd as a KerVoyant merchant vessel
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tongjess is moving off station to intercept, but it's not outfitted w/any means to actually stop the incoming ship if it does not turn away
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
RSO reports Tongjess has been trying & failing to contact a vessel on radar heading straight down our launch corridor with obvious intent
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h] MSV Lymun is now only 70km downrange - we're not sure how much further than 43km downrange the payload will go but it will be further
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h30m] MSV Tongjess will be our range monitoring ship today, has parked itself offshore to the east, coordinating w/ Range Safety Officer
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
memory issue has been resolved, no further issues being worked. All spectators please take note of viewing area closure for VAB roof repair
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are now STANDING BY. One "minor" issue being worked w/a memory address error on the M-315 control unit, have USI tech support on the line
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h20m] good continuity to all engine ignitors, local code check of booster electronics good, ops code'll be able to monitor their status
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
view from the bunker as the sunset #3 goes down. We are hoping for clearer skies next day cycle, weather to the west reported to be better
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h45m] fuel levels holding, pad locked down & crew retreating out of 300m blast radius or into nearby bunker as we begin ignition checks
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
while workers ensure pad is ready, launch ctrl monitors fuel levels for leaks, RSO completes eastern range setup, rocket runs diagnostics
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h30m] tanking complete, rocket is topped of with 9.9u (49kg) of liquid fuel & 12.1u (60kg) of oxidizer. Final pad check underway by crew
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h45m] with the rocket configured, time to fuel up. We are GO for tanking, trucks already left for the pad a few mins ago, hooking up now
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
boot up & onload of initialization code was good, changes since our last flight can be reviewed here: bit.ly/AFCS_ChangeLog
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5h] weather is GO to begin preflight, low clouds but mostly scattered w/ winds out of the west. Prepping to wake rocket & initialize sys
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
payload science code will also be run for 1st time, but this is not flight-critical code so if anything fails we just try again next time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this launch, everything will be automated except the 3rd stage throttle. We will see how code test performs before allowing it on 4th launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
overall ascent will follow same procedures as prev ones, but 3rd stage boost will push at a TWR of 3 instead of 2 to see how higher we get
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5h30m] launch team is assembling. Flight Director Lanalye is usually not a fan of launching the first day back from a weekend, but the team worked Sunday
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
tune in to bit.ly/ProgenyMk5-3 for updates after fueling, final count, terminal count & liftoff. Also any launch hold updates
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-6h] time to get ready for a rocket launch! Earlier today we completed readiness checks & received launch clearance. Wx reports filing in
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
last time we had an eclipse the same day as launch (kerbalspace.agency/?p=4786) things didn't go well. We will see how it turns out this time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-4)
9/18
#2π10:21:07
#3π 12:57:57 π16:21:58
#4π 18:58:48 !!π!! π22:22:49
9/19
#1π 00:59:39 π04:23:40
@ KSC (UTC-4)
9/18
#2π10:21:07
#3π 12:57:57 π16:21:58
#4π 18:58:48 !!π!! π22:22:49
9/19
#1π 00:59:39 π04:23:40
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
initial launch readiness checks have been performed today, will wrap up ahead of pre-launch ops tomorrow, which will start @ 17:43 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
flight analysis complete! get the full details on the last Mk5 flight & what is in store for the 3rd launch tomorrow bit.ly/ProgenitorPR14
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
full launch pad tours this day cycle will be suspended while rocket mounting ops are underway, but buses will come close enough for photos
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Progenitor launch team is running drills today while the engineering team is completing their flight 2 analysis & flight 3 plans for tmrw
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
minor water damage to VAB roof thanks to a plugged drainage pipe but rockets are all dry & secure. No launch delay for Progeny Mk5 #3 on Mon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
thankfully waters did not rise over to flood KSC, worst of the storm is now past & we will get things cleaned up tomorrow for re-opening
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rain bands have been passing over on/off all day, so local flooding no problem but storm surge + high tide starting to encroach on KSC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no mandatory evacuation is in effect, but Civvies all hangared, launch base tied down, tracking dishes locked & grnd lvl floors sandbagged
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this has been an amazing crazy week. Be sure to check out bit.ly/OpsSummary9-11β¦ so you don't miss anything! Next week be crazier->!!πππ!!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
currently there is no delay to the next Progeny Mk5 launch - we will update after the storm if any damages occur that impact launch times
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Progeny Mk5 payload issue has been resolved, but with the coming storm it will not be rolled out until the severe weather system has passed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Maritime Service has issued a severe storm warning along the coast, including Cape Kernaveral. KSC is prepping for storm surge & heavy rain
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Progenitor teams gathering for initial 2nd flight review, including comparative analysis with 1st flight. Not expecting a report 'til Sunday
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
yesterday during final checkouts a problem with the Mk5 #3 payload instruments was discovered. Rollout is delayed until later today at least
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Tongjess is wrapping up recovery operations, has payload out of the water. Time to clean up, reset & prep for another launch on Monday!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L+8m] again as with last flight payload fell below horizon just seconds after last tweet, Tongjess is nearby tho & reports full chute π
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L+7m] good initial chute deploy!! 27s comm blackout during re-entry & rocket still visible over the horizon a bit longer, 42km downrange
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L+4m] flight remains nominal, AFCS continues to perform perfectly & we are hands-off the remainder of this flight. Awaiting atmo re-entry
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L+2m] MECO @ L+2:58, 48km. Good throttle back from 54%-30% over 75s to maintain 2 TWR during burn. Apokee is 95km but still some atmo left
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L+1m] excellent ascent so far, AFCS staged boosters w/o issue & pitch monitoring is good, launch controllers lagging a bit behind
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have good solid booster ignition & lift off!! Rocket is pitched 89.4Β° from 87Β° after clearing the launch base & spinning up to head east
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-1m] tune in now if you haven't already for live updates on planned flight events via our Flight Tracker: bit.ly/ProgenyMk5-2
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-2m] AFCS now has control, rocket is switched over to internal battery power and RF comms. One last poll at T-30s and we're off for space!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] final general poll: Wx GO, Range GO, Flight GO, Tracking GO, all systems nominal! πGO PROGENY!π Now this is some nice launch weather!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
last 10min leading up to 5min poll are eerie - launch control is dead silent (under nominal conditions) as everyone preps for status check
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] range clear, we are GO to arm rocket, FTS. Anything encroaching the 300m pad radius or ascent corridor will scrub the launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-20m] final check-in with MSV Tongjess out in the recovery zone, they are all set. Range checks underway to ensure waters & airspace clear
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] back to the final countdown and we are GO! Skies are mostly clear & winds remain within limits. No additional issues being worked
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
flight computer has been reconfigured with the new launch time & is once again ready to proceed into the terminal count at L-2min
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
clouds continue to clear slowly so we will aim for the end of our window with a new L-0 time of 19:23 UTC, hoping things clear up by then!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
from outside launch control, conditions are looking a bit more promising now - can at least see some broken clouds off to the southwest
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
despite earlier reports, no real change to conditions over KSC. Hold remains in place. Thankfully winds remain in our favor, <3kts out of SW
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've added rocket size/mass and payload mass to our bit.ly/KSARecords page. Is there anything else you think we should include?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
mounted out on the launch base the Mk5 stands 12m tall, 1.9m greatest width. Fully fueled but w/o payload instruments it weighs in at 1.778t
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
hold continues, reports from Umbarg state that clouds are breaking up moving towards us. We can't predict tho if things will clear in time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we can't change the L-0 time already loaded onto the rocket, so the system has been rebooted, awaits new instructions load once we know when
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we will post updates every 20min on Wx conditions. Launch window extends almost the length of the day cycle to 19:23 UTC, 45min to sunset
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] Wx HOLD: low heavy clouds are now moving through. We have no visual on clear skies to the southwest & Umbarg is clouded over as well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-45m] everything looking good, moving on to launch rehearsal. If you haven't picked out your spot on the lawn, things are filling up fast!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
final code upload has been completed, rocket now fully configured for the terminal count at L-2min. All systems nominal, no issues posted
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h] MSV Lymun has moved further offshore from its anchorage yesterday to setup for monitoring the eastern range for any incursions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h30m] MSV Tongjess is 70km downrange, closer this launch now that we know the rocket won't be headed too far, ready for recovery ops
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h55m] pad is clearing, fuel levels holding. Once all crew is outside 300m we will begin checking ignition systems for all 3 engines
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
tanks are topped off, now to sit back & monitor levels to ensure no leaks, while workers clean up the pad & ensure all equipment is removed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h55m] with the rocket initialized we are GO for tanking. LF truck already hooked up, oxidizer will be added second for a total of 109kg
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
onload of initial code was good, you can visit bit.ly/AFCS_ChangeLog to see what's been done since the last launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h10m] we are GO for preflight, waking the rocket up, loading initial code to setup for ascent operations, checking systems, etc
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new automation this launch: booster decouple after engine flame out, 60km fin shred & monitoring pitch levels (engine ignition still manual)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h40m] launch team assembling for briefing. Will be using same ascent profile as last launch, aiming for proper coast periods this time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
tune in now to bit.ly/ProgenyMk5-2 for updates after fueling, final count, terminal count & liftoff. Also any launch hold updates
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h] regional Wx data being gathered via Kravass, Umbarg & airships to kick off pre-launch ops. Conditions have been great since yesterday
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VAB is already hard at work finalizing Mk5 #3 for rollout tomorrow while #4 & #5 assembly continues to progress ahead of launch next week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-4)
9/14
#2π10:07:31
#3π 12:44:21 !!π!! π16:08:22
#4π 18:45:12 π22:09:13
9/15
#1π 00:46:03 π04:10:04
#2π 06:46:54
@ KSC (UTC-4)
9/14
#2π10:07:31
#3π 12:44:21 !!π!! π16:08:22
#4π 18:45:12 π22:09:13
9/15
#1π 00:46:03 π04:10:04
#2π 06:46:54
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with an earlier launch time, we will roll straight through from preflight to launch, any issues will delay L-0. Prep ops begin @ 13:29 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
harsh weather seems to have moved on, rain stopped at least, launch readiness review signed off, we are once again πGO FOR LAUNCHπ tomorrow!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
routine launch readiness all across campus, no major issues thus far. VAB remains busy busy working on Mk5s #3, #4 & #5, still plenty to do!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
expect an update to our AFCS code repository sometime later today as things are tweaked for tomorrow's launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Progeny Mk5 first flight review is posted, we know what we need to do tomorrow. Get the full details here: bit.ly/ProgenitorPR13
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
strong winds from earlier today have brought lashing rain, but no thunderstorms. Mk5 remains secure, base has tie downs for high winds
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Scientist Cheranne & her team have locked down the payload instruments for bit.ly/ProgenyMk5-4 & bit.ly/ProgenyMk5-5
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
flight review meeting/luncheon about to start, will have details this afternoon. Flight tlm data now posted: bit.ly/Mk5-1_Tlm
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're not going to do any year-long wrap up of stats or milestones or anything - we'll get in the habit of doing that every calendar year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Happy bday to us! Send cake! It really has been a yr of operations here at KSA! Founder @DKerman_KSA has a few words kerbalspace.agency/?p=5167
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good balloon recovery, hopefully someday the hi-alt variants will be just as reliable! Lymun will return payload & remain for range ops tmrw
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Lymun anchored offshore after dropping off the Mk5 payload yesterday, is now taking on Bob & crew to launch a balloon just 33km away
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's another long day ahead as the 2nd Mk5 gets mounted this day cycle, everyone resets for launch tomorrow & analyzes yesterday's data
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
each segment of the path represents 1 second, so you can see how the rocket accelerates during boost and decelerates during coast phases
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
as expected, TDU data briefly looked at, engineers couldn't help share a peek @ our fancy new ascent plotting system bit.ly/path_ks
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no doubt engineers will crack open the TDU tonight but tomorrow is when the full analysis will be undertaken to prep for the 2nd launch Thur
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lymun has pulled the payload from the water intact & is on the way here to deliver. Everyone very happy with the Mk5's first launch!!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L+8m] just after our last update rooftop dish lost signal as payload dropped below horizon, but Lymun confirms visual of full chute deploy
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L+7m] brief loss of signal but then we regained link just prior to chute deploy, can confirm payload is descending safely 42km downrange!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L+5m] atmospheric interface is upon us, Lymun is already moving closer for recovery. Expecting comm blackout but could regain signal after
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L+3m] we are back in space! Heading for an apokee of just 94.6km. Fins shredded, rocket rdy for re-entry. It is now only 14.4km downrange
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L+2m] we've just had MECO @ L+1m55s, backing throttle down to 34% over 71s burn to maintain 2 TWR ascent. Ctrl monitoring remains nominal
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L+1m] all systems nominal, trajectory good, rocket spun-up & holding prograde thru coasts. 3rd stage burning @ 54% throttle for TWR of 2
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
successful lift off! Mk5 has left the launch base at 4Gs, lower booster putting out 71.1kN of thrust burning 96.4kg of solid fuel per second
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
as always, real-time (planned) staging events can be monitored via our Flight Tracker: bit.ly/ProgenyMk5-1 - stand by!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-2m] terminal count entered, control unit is now actively monitoring EC levels & will trigger first stage booster at 19:23:00.0 local time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
more importantly than clouds, winds are mostly calm. This is vital as we're not sure how high the nose will lift on initial ascent
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] final general poll: Wx GO, Range GO, Flight GO, Tracking GO, Launch clearance granted! πGO PROGENY!π clouds barely cleared up in time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
normal EC usage is in range of 0.2-0.1EC/s however so we don't forsee this being an issue but it has happened before kerbalspace.agency/?p=2258
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
automated system monitoring will be tested this flight w/EC usage - if for some reason it spikes over 2.61EC/s an abort will be signaled
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] rocket is ARMED, flight termination system active, anything w/in 300m of pad or under ascent trajectory at sea will halt count
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-20m] we have received confirmation from Lymun they are ready to move in & deploy recovery ship once return trajectory is plotted
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] we are GO from Wx to to continue countdown, no rain or storms nearby however cloud coverage still a tad heavy & will be monitored
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good launch rehearsal, control unit continues to stand by properly, monitoring time & now running the following code bit.ly/ascent_ks
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-45m] launch ctrl confirms final code load was good & rocket is now ready to move into terminal count. Full launch rehearsal now underway
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lymun reports sea conditions @ recovery zone within limits, waves barely cresting 1m & winds light/variable. Bob ashore prepping KB mission
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h] MSV Lymun has called in loud & clear, it is only stationed 100km downrange since we will be launching on a more vertical trajectory
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tongjess reports they've only had contact w/ a single merchant vessel nearby who was aware of launch. Marine traffic near KSC not regular
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h30m] things are starting to move again with MSV Tongjess checking in 14km SSE of us to monitor eastern range for any boat/air traffic
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're still a ways from sunrise so we've marked viewing areas with lights to ensure everyone stays within the safe areas in event of RUD
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've run the code through numerous simulations to help debug it but we could still have execution issues crop up during the actual ascent
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
still keeping an eye on the control unit, which is idling as it waits for the clock to tick over into the terminal count at L-2min
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h20m] we are now STANDING BY & monitoring systems. All is nominal, no issues. Sunset was a few mins ago, clouds remain a possible issue
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h45m] tank levels holding, fuel system checks out. Pad crew is now clearing out to 300m so we can initiate checks of all 3 engines
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
tanking operations have wrapped up, fuel systems now being initialized so we can begin monitoring for leaks & ensure fill lvl/press are good
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h45m] fuel trucks are on the pad & we are GO for tanking, loading 49kg of liquid fuel & 60kg of oxidizer into the 3rd stage tanks
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
code onload complete, bit.ly/initialize_ks has been run successfully, environment now setup for ascent ops load later in countdown
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
vessel power-up successful, checks ensuing to ensure good RF comms although rocket is hooked to ground links for primary comms until T-2min
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5hr] moving into preflight, team is waking up the rocket and will perform the initial code load to setup the processor for ascent ops
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we will not be making any changes to our ascent profile this launch except to hold TWR of 2 during 3rd stage boost, otherwise same as Mk4
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch team gathering for final briefing. Regional weather good, no storms in the area but we do have heavy cloud cover from here to Kravass
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
RT @DKerman_KSA: triumphant space return today? Hope so! We are *pretty sure* that launching only 3Β° from vertical will keep rocket from tipping over west
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
tune in now to bit.ly/ProgenyMk5-1 for updates after fueling, final count, terminal count & liftoff. Also any launch hold updates
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
weather reports are being gathered, as per our first item on the pre-launch ops timeline. Expect updates at these events as things progress
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
nearing the start of preflight, VAB is still busy with final integration of Progeny MK5 #2 while #3, #4 & #5 all continue to be assembled
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-4)
9/12
#2π10:00:43
#3π 12:37:33 π16:01:34
#4π 18:38:24 !!π!! π22:02:25
9/13
#1π 00:39:15 π04:03:16
#2π 06:40:06
@ KSC (UTC-4)
9/12
#2π10:00:43
#3π 12:37:33 π16:01:34
#4π 18:38:24 !!π!! π22:02:25
9/13
#1π 00:39:15 π04:03:16
#2π 06:40:06
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket already mounted, launch late in the day so we will begin early preflight ops @ 17:23 UTC to use extra time for any issues that pop up
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ops Director Drew & Finance Head Mortimer have signed & filed all the launch paperwork & confirmed we are π GO FOR LAUNCH π late tomorrow!!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
FD Lanalye says her team has completed final review of all Mk5 launch procedures & are ready to give them their first real test tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
anyone? here's a hint: bit.ly/KSARecords oh, and final launch date can be found here bit.ly/ProgenyMk5-5 twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tracking Station has completed testing & calibration of both main dishes. Third dish is still nowhere near ready for use during launch ops
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
great to have a rocket on the pad again! bit.ly/ProgenyMk5-1 is set for launch readiness review, as is the rest of KSC throughout today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's not raining, so the Mk5 will be out on the pad by sunset. It is being loaded onto the carry vehicle now, Bill rdy to assist w/mounting
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ok so this week is our bday. In that same vein, anyone know what's special about the day we plan to have our final Mk5 launch in the series?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
visitors to KSC this weekend finally get to see the launch pad occupied & get a sense of just how large the Progeny launch base really is
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the first Progeny Mk5 is ready for launch! That & more via bit.ly/OpsSummary9-4-β¦ - relax this weekend, all - next week be crazy! ππ!!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Progeny Mk5 launch base has completed checkouts, is rdy to receive the first rocket on Monday; rocket itself still undergoing its own checks
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
final code review is underway for the Mk5's initial launch, updates to the AFCS repository will be made later today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
great end to the day with the first fully-stacked Progeny Mk5 ready for final integration checkouts tomorrow - technician for scale
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VAB is finishing up the Progeny MK5 launch base, to be redeployed onto the pad later today so it is ready for a full day of testing tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VAB humming along. Mk5 #1 rdy for final stacking tomorrow, #2 will begin stacking on Fri and #3 boosters are being finned, stacking next wk
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mortimer has posted our bit.ly/FinanceReport_β¦, Aug in the red thx to new comms dishes + more funds being funneled into Deuce & Mk5
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
so long, August! Another productive week here at the KSA, catch up on all the happenings + add'l details via bit.ly/OpsSummary8-28β¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
since we will be wrapping all operations into one package, the Automated Firing Control System is now the Automated Flight Control System
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
as we continue to test & refine our software, we will be pushing periodic updates to this repository: github.com/KSAMissionCtrlβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today kOS code was run on Mk5 flight hardware for the first time. Numerous bugs & issues popped up but nothing serious. Engineers pleased
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
boosters are all built to same specs, we will mostly be playing around with coast times & 3rd stage throttle during the various Mk5 ascents
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mk5 boosters have arrived & VAB can now begin building the 1st 2 rockets to launch in Sept, rest will follow once work progresses on 1 & 2
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
1st sunrise w/3 dishes! 3rd tracking dish finished construction earlier today & will be fully commissioned over the next two months
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Progeny Mk5 M-315 probe cores have arrived from Sheltered Rock & engineers are eager to get them setup this week to run code tests
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill & Bob prepping 2 KB payloads for tomorrow; VAB prepping for Mk5 booster arrival next wk; HAB readying Civvie on tarmac for flight today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Progeny launch base has been moved back into the VAB so it can be reconfigured to pitch only 3Β° from vertical instead of 5Β° for Mk5 launches
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
weekly ops review - 3rd Ed! All hail the weekend - catch up on this past week's activities & w/additional info via bit.ly/KSAOpsSummary8β¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
first shipment of Mk5 parts have arrived. 3rd stages will begin assembly, boosters for the lower stages will be delivered later this month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
meeting is over, everyone is pumped! You can check out even more details via the official press release - bit.ly/Progenitor-PR1
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch dates are of course subject to change based on weather, rocket issues, etc - but best case scenario is being planned for initially
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
and now the moment everyone has been waiting for - launch dates!! More info will be available soon on the website's program page
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
correction: by 3rd flight rocket should be fully automated. 5th flight should see final version of initial flight control software
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
.@Three_Pounds according to Simon no active guidance, just staging, telemetry monitoring & throttle control - Progeny rockets cannot steer anyways
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here is a look at the boot system that will manage the onboard data runs, allowing us to push updates & make full use of limited file space
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
1st Mk5 will not be automated, but scripts will be in place to monitor flight & simulate actions. 5th flight should be fully automated
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
moving on to the kOS control unit, which we revealed back in June, Simon is discussing how Mk5s will iteratively move toward full automation
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
working in conjunction with Coatl Aerospace, R&D have finished our vacuum-rated barometer/thermometer instruments, 1st Mk5 payload science
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
fin angles shown on the blueprint are from the MK4 Flight 3, which gave the least precession of the 3rd stage through ascent & re-entry
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Mk5 will launch at 4Gs, which raised the Mk4 nose only 1Β° at launch so we are tilting the launch base back to 3Β° to help heighten apokee
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
mass, cost, part count & Ξv for the rocket are given assuming no payload instruments (previous blueprints did include arbitrary instruments)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Simon has begun the overview based on the blueprint. Straight up Mk4 design w/added inline control unit, extra battery replaces old MCU
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
first launch series of Mk5 will be 5 rockets, after which we should be able to accept contracts & build on-demand for clients w/in 2 weeks
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Admin Bldg meeting room filling up again - time to reveal everything we currently have on the Progeny Mk5, our first automated rocket!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today is a big day! Mk4 program will officially wrap & we will be releasing tons of info on its successor the MK5, slated to debut in Sept
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Yikes! VAB just had a major lightning strike. Thankfully that was something the builders planned for & the structure has sustained no damage
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we won't have any more details on the Mk5 until the Mk4 program review is completed next week, but next launch def no sooner than early Sep
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Drew & Mortimer are working on submission guidelines for sub-orbital contracts we can accept with the upcoming Progeny Mk5 - exciting!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we may alter our ascent profile further with the Mk5 but for now we only want to see how changes to lower booster thrusts affects the flight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5h] sticking to sched, launch briefing completed & preflight underway. Ascent will be the same as last launch, depicted via this graphic
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this is something we plan at some point hopefully by the end of the year during the upcoming Progeny Mk5 program twitter.com/DKerman_KSA/stβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
as the LF/O engines require no changes, we have a new batch arriving today for the Mk5 rockets. More Mk5 parts are on their way also
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's going to take 3wks to get KSC back to full ops, but early Aug will see back-to-back Mk4 launches to clear the way for Mk5 later in Aug
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ProgenitorProg⦠finances have been updated. Well into the green now to fund additional Mk4 launches & Mk5 development
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
tl;dr - the Monolith electronically fried the entire KSC campus when the Mk4 passed 70km, also managed to knock out Umbarg & Kravass
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/KSA-Statement this is our Ops Summary for this week, because there's really not much else to talk about
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3m] prepping our 1st terminal count, where the new Automated Firing Control System will ignite the booster at L-0. Staging still manual
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] final all-stations poll: Wx GO, Range GO, Flight GO, Tracking Station GO, Tongjess GO. Launch clearance: authorized! πGO PROGENY!!π
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
earlier today the launch team also ran live tests of the new Automated Firing Control System (AFCS), ignition signals received at pad OK
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
scientists analyzed the eclipse temperature data this morning, instrument works great. Yep, eclipses are cool both literally & figuratively!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
scientists have gathered up the thermometer to analyze the collected data Mon & see how well it registered the drop in temp during eclipse
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
eclipse is over, but the thermometer will remain outside for 2 full day cycles since it was setup (12h01m42s) to gather control measurements
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
thankfully weather was good, mid-day eclipses are great, happening near zenith where you are looking through the least amount of atmosphere
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
one of the scientists drew the short straw to wake up early & setup the vacuum thermometer outside to begin logging temp data every minute
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
R&D also reports vacuum-rated temp & pressure sensors are also nearing completion. Temp sensor to be tested tomorrow during a midday eclipse
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
time to close out the work week! As usual, review of this past week & extra details available in our Ops Summary: bit.ly/OpsSummary6-19β¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
they couldn't *quite* squeeze everything into the desired 0.35m form factor, so is a teeny bit wide at 0.375m but w/in Progeny design specs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
USI has finalized the design for the Automated Master Control Unit casing, which will be a key component of the Progeny Mk5, coming Aug/Sep
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Scientist Cheranne also says work has begun on vacuum-rated versions of our pressure & temperature sensors for eventual space flight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Head of R&D Wernher Von Kerman has announced work has begun on our new general-purpose science instrument, a negative gravioli detector
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
that's it! We're out! Everyone enjoy the holiday, see you next year! Before you go though, here's a 2017 preview: bit.ly/OpsSummary12-1β¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
computerized control systems remain mired in development, but R&D reports things are moving forward in conjunction w/ USI. No ETA given tho
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's time to fly higher! The Progeny Mk2 will take the Progenitor Program to its next successive step. Full details: bit.ly/ProgenitorPR4
