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
                    
                    current Deuce cleared for flights, new Deuce ordered with some improvements planned and the K-3X project has been approved to design a new cargo aircraft. Details: kerbalspace.agency/?p=6741 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    doesn't look like Jeb & Val will be making it home today either. Airships can manage high winds as they can always point into it for takeoff/landing. The K-3X will be larger & more capable of handling >20kts crosswinds
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    KSC Operations Cease Indefinitely Due to Legal Injunction: kerbalspace.agency/?p=6892
Don't panic! Sadly our operational capacity has been drastically reduced but the KSA is not being shut down
                    
                    
                    
                Don't panic! Sadly our operational capacity has been drastically reduced but the KSA is not being shut down
 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    sunset from the Umbarg access tunnel as we end our last day of operations at KSC for at least the next 2-3 weeks. The last of onsite staff will be departing tomorrow after final equipment shutdowns are complete 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    the R-3350-26W Duplex-Cyclone ("Dee Psych") engine will be what powers the Deuce moving forward, as well as the K-3X. It is the 1st engine designed specifically for fixed-wing flight and is 1.5x more powerful than the current PT6 in use, with three 4m propeller blades and nine cylinders. Image is to scale 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    today we completed our 5th orbit 'round the sun since the KSA began operations back in late 2016. Happy Kerbol anniversary! Jeb & Val also returned to Umbarg via airship after spending more time with the advanced training unit
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    the 50th Civvie rolled off the assembly line today at C7's Kravass plant, which will be ending Civvie production by May and setting up for K-3X builds - Civvies and Deuces will be assembled at the new Sheltered Rock facility
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    the High Court has ruled that the injunction against surface operations is legal, which means our team of lawyers now has to get to work writing up amendments to the current laws that will have to be cleared through Assembly. This could take months!!
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    fortunately we expect to have majority support in the Assembly as well as the backing of the Presider so hopes are high we can get all this ratified in a matter of weeks instead. Still - well played, Monolithic followers. Well played.
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    the fight to resume surface operations continues, get additional information on that and more via bit.ly/OpSummary3-5-18 - a relaxing weekend is wished upon all 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    our legal team isn't just *our* legal team, unfortunately, so while we'd like them to get these laws rewritten and put through for review by the Assembly posthaste they do have to deal with the needs of their other clients as well
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    find out more about the Ascension Mk1 designs released earlier this week via bit.ly/OpSummary3-12-⦠and tell us - are you doing anything sciencey this weekend? 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    we can't occupy permanent structures above ground but we can continue to build them! Our new Administration Complex is complete on schedule. Original bldg rebuilt w/new & better materials, second bldg is 3rd story, with 2 levels sprawling underground (high water table) 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    the new offices still have to be setup with equipment and everything wired up but it should be all set for our return. Although the underground areas could be used before then, pointless to do so without any ongoing operations at KSC
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    not much to review this week, so here's an update on the shutdown as well as details of Extremis Phase Two calculations: bit.ly/OpSummary3-19-⦠
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    the amended laws have been submitted to the Assembly, which should get around to reviewing them sometime next week. We did our best to speed up the legislative process but there's only so much that can be done...
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    we are one step closer to getting operations back underway at KSC. That and more in bit.ly/OpSummary3-26-⦠- we hope everyone enjoys a relaxing weekend! 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    bit.ly/OpSummary4-2-18 gives some additional details on what our objectives are for the first Ascension flights prior to going for orbit. Have a great weekend everyone!
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    KSC will re-open for operations this week! We will endeavor to show the Presider that his potential "sacrifice" will not be in vain and we thank him immensely for his support. Read more on the operations restart here: kerbalspace.agency/?p=7024
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    shortly after sunrise and KSC stands ready to resume operations as we complete our initial move back onto campus today. Will take another week or so to complete the transition but activities will pick up & a rocket will be back on the pad soon! 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    Jeb and Val head off to debriefing after parking next to the one Civvie still deployed to the tarmac (other two are in the hangar). Yup, Deuce is pretty big but it in turn will soon be dwarfed by the upcoming K-3X (which we should have lots more info on next month) 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    we have an early design render of the K-3X. Significant changes could still occur but C7 says they are close to locking in the final design. The final aircraft designation will be K-#[engine count]##[wingspan in meters] 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    Jeb & Val have just completed their final mission for the Genesis program! Tomorrow they will officially transfer over with Bob and Bill to Ascension and begin to focus solely on training for space flight 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    everyone give a big welcome to our two newest crew members - Flight Officers Aldeny & Tedman!! Aldy & Ted come aboard to take the place of Val & Jeb in the Genesis program. Learn more about both via ops.kerbalspace.agency/?crew 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    both new crew come to us as experienced flight instructors for the Civvie and Deuce; you may recall them passing through KSC when completing their training almost 1 year ago. They are excited to work on developing and testing out the K-3X and future aircraft
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    the current design of the K-3X has a wingspan that is too large to fit in the HAB or other hangars at various airports. Engineers are working to design a mechanism that can attach the final wing segment rigidly for flight but allow it to fold up on the ground
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    K-3X was the code designation for all prior aircraft projects, but names were chosen early on in development. The Civvie is K-108 while the Deuce is K-213. If anyone has ideas for what to call the latest K-3X, send them over!
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    what a week! Lots to do now before we're ready to send up the second Mk1 next month, learn about that and more on what else transpired at KSC via bit.ly/OpSummary6-4-18 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    Air Safety Administration has finally granted C7 Aerospace design approval for the folding wing mechanism that will allow us to build the K-422. Parts are due to begin arriving in the HAB next month with build completion estimated for early Sept. Full res: flickr.com/gp/kerbal_spac⦠
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    in addition to the ASA approval, design time was lengthened when new engines had to be designed with a smaller blade radius due to the aircraft's extremely low ground clearance. Deuce engines couldn't put thrust vector below/equal center of mass w/o props striking ground
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    both Ted and Aldy admit they miss getting to fly a lot more regularly in their old jobs as flight instructors but also find the work helping to design and manage the K-422 project to be stimulating
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    what should we nickname the K-422? Willing to take suggestions but so far have not received a single one, so last chance! We'll announce a name next week if we haven't heard any good ideas by the end of tomorrow
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    we hope everyone has some cool and exciting plans for this weekend! Before you go, catch up on all the latest stuff that happened this week along with additional supplementary information via bit.ly/OpSummary6-25-⦠
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    C7 Aerospace has decided to name the K-422 the "Dhumla" (pronounced Dum-lar), derived from ancient kerbskrit from a tale of the 4 rivers of life. This aircraft certainly can't fly without 4 engines! Thx for the suggestion, @BenThrussell
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    work still being done to see about upgrading our runway here at KSC to handle night operations while also setting up controlled airspace to handle commercial aircraft traffic to serve as the airport for Umbarg
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    construction on the Dhumla kicks off today. Despite its size and taking up 443 square meters of floor space in the HAB, we have a total of 3,102m^2  to shuffle around our 1 Deuce (119m^2) and 3 Civvies (43m^2) - and those are all including the empty space between wings & tail
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    new approach lights have been installed at the ends of both turf runways to make them easier to spot when landing in low light conditions without the need for a co-pilot with binoculars, which you can't have when piloting a Civvie 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    other than the delays everyone else experienced during the heat wave shutdown, the Dhumla is progressing well in its construction and remains on pace to be completed in September, albeit later in the month that originally planned. Main fuselage assembly set to finish next week 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    Head of Finances Mortimer has posted up our fiscal report for July. Thanks to launch delays and the failed Progenitor mission, this month went far deeper into the red than we planned. Here's hoping we can bounce back a bit in August docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    from roughly 30 meters below the Monolith researchers continue to carefully bore up into the crystalline structure they hope leads into the edifice itself. They have nearly reached the bottom and have slowed down to ensure they aren't damaging or triggering anything in the way
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    project scientists are monitoring the Monolith for any signs of its old subsonic/EM disturbances as well as the crystal veins locally and off in Kravass & Umbarg for any electrical activity. So far, all signs point to the Monolith remaining inactive
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    the Dhumla finally has a page to call its own on our website, and we've also released a new blueprint that has cargo space information and the updated patch with the production name rather than the design designation kerbalspace.agency/?page_id=2071#⦠
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    only when needed to fit into a hangar like the one at KSC, which has ridiculously small doors š Other airports don't have any much bigger either tho twitter.com/Shasta_001/staā¦
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    hello from KSA HQ in Umbarg! Just calling out to let everyone know we are okay - electrical services are gradually coming back online in all caverns here, but KSC remains off limits until a team sent out yesterday to assess the Monolith's new activity has returned
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    we will release more information on the current situation once we have a better idea what we are dealing with; the past two days have mainly been working to recover basic infrastructure & ensure all our injured employees are being taken care of
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    website and Ops Tracker are now back online as electrical services here in Umbarg become more stable. Still no word from the team dispatched to KSC, but they are not overdue unless they fail to return or get in contact with us by later today
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    surface team has returned, reports there is a consistent EM field over KSC, tho they found it has a radius of 10km in all directions (assumed out over the water as well) & is not specifically directed @ the space center. Generated current is strong enough to still fry electronics
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    high-level KSA staff meeting will be held tomorrow to work up a full assessment of the current situation and decide what steps will be taken moving forward over the next several days. We will have details in our Ops Summary
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    we have released the report on the events that occurred this past Tuesday, which will serve as our Ops Summary for this week. Additional updates will be posted as we get more information on the EM field surrounding KSC. kerbalspace.agency/?p=7917
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    we now know the EM field is still active because the bore hole is in fact continuing to fill, just at a pace now only measurable in days. New estimates say it could take as long as 3 months to heal. Here is an updated report for the past 2 weeks: kerbalspace.agency/?p=7933 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    we've finished transferring what equipment we can from KSC to Umbarg HQ so programs can continue development work as best as possible. Progeny still analyzing Mk6 debris. Extremis plotting trajectories. Ascension reviewing capsule tests. Genesis prepping Dhumla test requirements
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    while other airports could support the continued construction of the Dhumla if we were to move the assembly offsite, none of them are good places to loft a brand new aircraft. The low altitude and flat terrain around KSC is the ideal flight testing environment
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    although we pulled a net profit for mission expenses, the cost of buying up parts for 5 new Ascension Mk1 rockets, even minus the engines, has once again set us back in the red. August financial report is now available: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    today work was begun on our dirt runway thru October. It will be broken down to ground level and rebuilt to handle heavier aircraft, leveled back at is previous height and then paved over. Edge lighting will also be installed so takeoffs and landings can be done at night
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    āØš happy birthday to us!! šāØ Today marks the start of Year 3 for KSA operations. Our founder and Ops Director @DKerman_KSA has some words to share on the current state of things š„ kerbalspace.agency/?p=8039
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    the Dhumla main fuselage remains at KSC mostly complete in the HAB but other major components like wings and engines have been shipped out to Kravass and Sheltered Rock for completion, so once possible we can integrate them all back at KSC
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    Head of Finances Mortimer hasn't had much bookkeeping to do this past month but thanks to KerBalloon we have a small profit to post for September at least docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    the effort to penetrate the Monolith has been indefinitely suspended and the bore hole will be allowed to heal. Current estimates put this happening by mid-November. We still don't know if this will bring about the end of the EM field as well, but everyone is hoping it will
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    bore hole measurements made yesterday show it continues to close at a rate that will see it healed up by mid-Nov. We still have to see whether the EM field drops or further reduces its size but if able to resume surface ops, would work towards Jan '19 Ascension & Progeny launches
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    the Dhumla components would also be returned to KSC for final assembly to be completed by the end of the year so we could begin flight testing in January as well. We may at least be able to air-launch a Progeny Mk1-B from a Deuce before the end of the year however
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    taken earlier this day cycle from atop Building B in the Support Village, progress being made on the new runway - about half has been broken down & that half will begin to be rebuilt and paved while the other half is broken down 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    bit.ly/KSA_Finances_1⦠has been posted by Head of Finances Mortimer. We managed a small profit this month thanks to the science missions that were able to be carried out off campus
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    we are now just 2 days from projected closure of the bore hole into the crystal base of the Monolith. EM field remains stable - scientists were hoping to see it begin to reduce by now. A large influx of pilgrims has begun to arrive for what they believe will be an event this wknd
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    we just got word from the surface that the EM field has collapsed down to 150m! It will continue to be monitored this week and if it looks to be holding steady we'll begin the work of getting the affected buildings back up to operational status over the next few weeks
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    taken a little over an hour ago, the new runway has been completed since earlier this week and with the EM field down we can finally test the edge lighting! A slightly longer length extends from the opposite runway threshold as well. The middle has no lighting 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    Ockr and Sheltered Rock airports have had night lighting on their runways since they were built last year. Kravass' runway has recently had edge lighting installed as well. All 4 airports can now conduct night operations (in VFR conditions only)
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    no time off this weekend! Everyone is pitching in to begin getting the KSC buildings affected by the EM field back up to operational status by the end of the month, including the VAB and HAB so work can resume on Ascension, Progeny and Genesis projects in December
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    today & tomorrow we will be receiving the assembled wings and tail sections for the Dhumla to undergo final integration in the HAB during December, aiming for first flight testing in late January assuming ground tests go well
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    all the pieces are in place - well the big ones at least. Lots of little details like lighting still to be installed after the wings & tail section are joined. Too bad they can't just snap together. A few hundred meters of wires/cables also need to be hooked up over the next 2wks 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    all crew have been recalled this weekend to begin active duty once again starting next week. Everyone else is still working through the weekend and almost around the clock to get KSC back to operational status. Right now that's looking like sometime towards the end of next week
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    the fiscal roller coaster ride continues this year, as Head of Finances Mortimer has published bit.ly/FinanceReport_ā¦. We're glad though Genesis was able to afford to continue Dhumla production off-site so it could be ready for testing sooner rather than later
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    Lead Engineer Simon says the HAB and VAB are ready to get back to work, but Flight Director Lanalye is still waiting for Mission/Launch Control to be brought back online, as it contains the most electronic components. She says mid-next week should see them fully operational again
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    Flight Director Lanalye and her team are moving back into Mission/Launch Control today, will be spending the rest of the week running drills and tests to ensure all the systems are back to full operational status after the repairs
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    we have confirmation from Flight Director Lanalye that all systems are GO over at Mission/Launch Control! Monday will see more drills, flight prep and a Deuce flight for final system checks before repeating the release rehearsal that was interrupted back in August
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    good report from the HAB, which is buzzing with activity as the Dhumla continues its structural assembly while the Progeny Mk1-B is also being mounted on the tail of the Deuce & today's Civvie begins its science instrument integration
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    a look at what final approach is like at night, although with a nearly full Mun in the sky above the terrain was easy to see. Still, you can appreciate how the approach lighting makes things more visible for the pilot 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    the Dhumla is structurally complete a day ahead of schedule! Still needs gear, lights and plenty of interior work but it remains on track to begin flight testing towards the end of January. Aldy & Ted both say they can hardly wait 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    2018 operations have officially ceased! We will resume operations on Jan 2nd, 2019. We are very pleased we were able to squeeze in so much this final week, here is one last Ops Summary to close out the year: kerbalspace.agency/?p=8189
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    this week is administrative-focused, getting everything from this past year organized and filed away for review at the start of next year. We'll have a financial analysis in early Jan but for now the basic report including this month has been released bit.ly/Finances_12-18
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    given the financial struggle we had this year, ending up with a huge loss, Head of Finances Mortimer is going to be looking very carefully at whether it was our fault in over-reaching ambition or more a matter of unfortunate external circumstances (*cough*Monolith*cough*)
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    šš HAPPY NEW YEAR!! šš
we hope everyone is having a great holiday and look forward to hitting the ground running tomorrow to begin solidifying our plans for 2019, which is looking to be another exciting year for space exploration š„āØ
                    
                    
                    
                we hope everyone is having a great holiday and look forward to hitting the ground running tomorrow to begin solidifying our plans for 2019, which is looking to be another exciting year for space exploration š„āØ
 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    operational teams from all our programs will be meeting over the course of this week to review 2018 and solidify plans for 2019. We'll have all the details next week about new launch times as well as any additional 2019 goals we didn't mention in our last tweet
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    Head of Finances Mortimer has completed his financial analysis from 2018 and you can see the summary sheet here: bit.ly/2018FiscalSummā¦. We have also decided that we will begin accepting donations as a way for the public to lend support
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    Mortimer has a post on the website with more details on our current financial state (not dire, but definitely hurting) and also includes instructions on how you can help support the KSA if you are interested kerbalspace.agency/?p=8272 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    our bit.ly/OpsSummary_1-4⦠is now posted in case you missed anything that transpired this short week. Also, @DKerman_KSA has more information about the Patreon/Ko-Fi announcement earlier today in his Desk Notes that should address any questions/concerns
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    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_⦠overall favorite is the Ascension Mk1 going vertical for the 1st time 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    C7 Aerospace has just won a major legal/business battle with the airship companies to get approval for a runway to be built at the Kongo Research Base. It will still receive airships but now also pax/cargo via Deuce & in future hopefully Dhumla too
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    the airstrip is planned to be completed in March or April. Meanwhile this victory signals that a shift towards more fixed-wing aviation is finally happening & the deal for KSC to become an aircraft hub for Umbarg seems more like a possibility
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    being stuck underground for so long gave society an excuse to develop a new way to mark the passage of time, but we still like to make note of a "kerbolar year" on occasions like today - the start of our 8th trip around the sun since the KSA was founded back in Sep 2016! š„šāØ
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    Dhumla is finally holding its own weight, resting on the landing gear that completed installation today - the final major component. Now HAB crews are just finalizing some internal work before the aircraft is ready for ground testing next week! 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    Dhumla is complete enough that Tedman & Aldeny can sit in the actual cockpit and work through checklists rather than rely on a simulator. They'll be training and testing systems aboard the aircraft this week to ensure all is ready for ground trials next week
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    Deuce is taxiing back to the HAB after touching down w/o issue. It has logged 29 flight hours since 4/23/18 over a distance of 13,664km & is now being taken out of service for a full inspection - which is just fine considering focus will be on Dhumla testing for the near future
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    bit.ly/KSARecords has also been updated for Longest Mission Distance, Longest Single Flight Distance, Longest Continuous Flight Time, Longest Distance from KSC and Heaviest Aircraft Flown. Only Jeb & Val's altitude, speed, & Gs records are still intact
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    today the Dhumla will undergo its final closeouts as HAB workers continue to work through several hundred items, checking things off as they go to ensure the aircraft was constructed as it was supposed to be and ready to begin ground trials leading up to flight testing
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    we have two celebrations going on today - one in the VAB for the success of today's mission and another in the HAB for the completion of the Dhumla, which will be deployed tomorrow to begin its ground testing ahead of flight trials
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    the Big Boi has just been tugged out of the HAB for the first time. Without the folding wings it wouldn't be able to fit through the doors! It will be parked for ground crews to prep it for ground testing. FOs Aldeny & Tedman can't wait to fire up all those engines 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    flight crew is suited & booted, briefed and heading out to the aircraft. They'll be working together to complete quite a lengthy exterior check and will then board to get the aircraft ready for engine start. Ground crews have hooked up power and fuel
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    Flight Control has given the crew a GO for engine start! They'll turn over the outermost port engine first, set it to idle, check readings then perform a run-up to full throttle. If everything looks good they'll back off to idle and start the second inner engine
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    second engine has just been started. Full throttle run-up on the first produced 20.485kN of thrust, sucking down 0.11704kg/s of fuel (of which the aircraft can hold 4t worth). RPM, exhaust temps, manifold pressure and more all within nominal ranges
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    HO! That was scary - throttling slowly up to full w/ both engines running overcame the brakes before reaching full thrust, aircraft started to slowly spin to the right. Flight crew arrested it before either service trucks were damaged. No ground crew were nearby or in the trucks
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    there are only two throttle levers, one for each side, but all four engines can have their propeller pitches set independently. Reversing thrust on one allowed both to be brought up to full power without spinning the aircraft
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    all nominal on the left side, both engines are being shut down and the starboard side will now get its turn, following the same procedures. Here was the second engine start earlier. Beefy! youtube.com/watch?v=6K461Cā¦
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    all engines are shut down and C7/Genesis engineers will look over the data while ground crews inspect the nose wheel, which experienced some lateral load thanks to the spin. If data looks good and plane is not damaged, it will do some taxi work later today after 3rd sunrise
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    Flight Officers Tedman & Aldeny are back aboard the Dhumla and have fired up ALL FOUR engines to prepare for taxi! Ground crews have cleared the nose wheel but caution will still be taken at first to confirm it is in good working order 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    heading out for the runway, both pilots agree that 6-8m/s feels like a good speed. They usually zip along in a Civvie or Deuce at ~12m/s but Ted is like "I can *feel* the massiveness of this thing. Slow and easy!". They will eventually have to speed up for some testing though
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    Ted & Aldy have both been practicing turning on the runway, using the wide center portion. Nose wheel can only steer 30° so they must use reverse thrust on the turning side to spin around tighter. It definitely has a technique to it that they are getting the hang of 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    Dhumla has just turned about at the end of the runway without running off the edge, in fact if done properly the turn can only take up a little over half the width of the runway. With more room ahead now, they'll do a power test to see how much the wheel brakes can hold
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    plane began to roll at ~33% throttle or 32.8kN. Good info as there's no sense applying brakes when they would be useless and just burn them out faster if too much thrust is being applied. Taxiing back to the HAB, the aircraft will now be loaded with more fuel
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    earlier taxi test was done with 1t of fuel, now the aircraft is carrying 2.5t, a little over half its full capacity. Pilots will be keeping a careful eye on how the gear handles the additional weight and how steering is affected while taxiing
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    after going through some more figure eights in the middle runway section Aldy reports it definitely takes a bit more effort to move it around and they do notice a slight wobble if turning too tight and too fast. Taxiing back in, they will get a full load of fuel for a final test
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    after hauling around 4t of fuel and performing the same exercises aircraft is taxiing back to the HAB. Crew report no obvious issues as long as the plane is handled properly. C7/Genesis will have a final ground test Mon before clearing the aircraft for flight trials
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    what a long and busy week! So much to talk about in our weekly ops report - stop by even if you've seen all our tweets as we do like to include additional information here: kerbalspace.agency/?p=8434 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    correction sorry, we misunderstood - engineers from C7/Genesis will be studying the test data on Monday to determine whether to hold additional ground trials on Tuesday
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    Genesis and C7 have studied the data from last week and decided the Dhumla is ready for additional ground trials. Flight crew & FD Lanalye are working out the details with the engineers on what needs to be tested and how so they can carry out the mission tomorrow
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    flight crew is already aboard the Dhumla, readying the aircraft for its third and final round of ground testing - time to see how she really handles when up to speed on the runway! We will barely avoid actually taking off, if all goes well 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    aircraft is ready and flight crew have permission to taxi out to Rwy27. All run-up tests will be done from this end of the runway as after Rwy09 runs out and you drop off the threshold it is a steeper slope downwards that ends up in the water
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    aircraft is lined up for its first run, which will accelerate at full throttle to 40m/s and then use the wheel brakes to come to a stop. Aircraft has been loaded with just over 1/4 of its fuel capacity, an average flight between any two airfields around Kerbin
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    aircraft is taxiing back after traveling 1.2km down the runway - Tedman kept the throttle on a little too long they actually hit 53m/s but still had no trouble coming to a stop & held a straight line. That's a little over half the length of the runway they used up
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    set for the second run, this time after accelerating to over 40m/s the engines will be put into reverse thrust mode to bring the plane to a halt without using the wheel brakes until speed drops below ~10m/s
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    that time it only took just over 300m of runway, which is as expected. Wheel brakes on this aircraft are not meant to stop it after landing, but are mainly used when taxiing. Now that we have confirmation of good performance from both, time to move on to the first real test!
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    already near the end of the runway, after a quick turnaround the crew are set to perform a takeoff roll, which will bring them up to 80m/s, after which they will apply reverse thrust and wheel brakes to come to a halt as soon as possible - hopefully before running out of runway
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    after nearly 700m to reach takeoff speed the aircraft was brought to a stop with over half a kilometer of runway left. So far, so good - the aircraft was designed to be able to abort a takeoff attempt. Crew is taxiing back for the next test, which will have flaps set for takeoff
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    design data for the aircraft shows that in this configuration we need to be able to exceed a 9° angle of attack to remain flying, and the aircraft can handle a 10° angle of attack before stalling, hence our takeoff speed of 80m/s 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    yikes! That was a stressful test as the aircraft swerved back & forth across the runway after Aldeny applied the brakes and kicked in the reverse thrusters. Thankfully neither wing dipped low enough for the propellers to gouge out the surface & they stopped well short of rwy end
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    taking their time on the taxi back to calm down nerves. It got a little tense there obviously. Crew transcript as the aircraft careened down the runway:
Ted: you got it?
Aldy: I've got it
Ted: got it?
Aldy: got it. I got it
Ted: okay just let me know-
Aldy: I GOT IT!!
                    
                    
                    
                Ted: you got it?
Aldy: I've got it
Ted: got it?
Aldy: got it. I got it
Ted: okay just let me know-
Aldy: I GOT IT!!
 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    not quite, because the aircraft won't be maintaining that speed, but will still be accelerating, and quite quickly at that. More specifically this is the rotation speed to begin the takeoff where the nose can begin to be lifted off the runway twitter.com/baserunner0723ā¦
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    we just repeated the test with similar results, although the crew was ready for it this time and were able to work together to keep the aircraft under control better. They will reset for one more run but raise the flaps back up again
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    test complete, no troubles at all coming to a stop. Lowered flaps causing instability is not something that was anticipated - hurray for testing! The Genesis team will have to figure it out but for now aircraft is taxiing back in to receive a full load of fuel for one final test
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    weighed down with 4t of fuel, the aircraft is taxiing back out to Rwy27. Flight crew will actually back it up after turning around to ensure they have the most room possible. Even though takeoff speed is now only 5m/s faster, the mass that is moving is much greater!
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    a final success! The Dhumla accelerated to 85m/s without issue and came to a stop with 400m of runway remaining. There is a ton of data to pour over & the swerving with flaps needs to be ruled out as an issue but signs are looking good for flight trials to begin soon
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    all ground trials complete and flight trials for the Dhumla begin tomorrow! Genesis confirmed swerving issue was due to wheel brake use compressing the nose gear beyond safe limits and will not affect take off. Ted & Aldy say they are ready to continue breaking records š
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    weather failed to cooperate today to allow for the Dhumla to begin its flight testing. Forecasting into next week is not yet accurate enough to rely on so we will see how things are looking come Monday for another attempt
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    so ends this week of operations. Catch up on anything you may have missed via our Ops Summary and have a great weekend! kerbalspace.agency/?p=8523 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    Head of Finances Mortimer has our books balanced for January. We expected a loss thanks to the Dhumla testing but the failure of the Progeny Mk6-I mission was a big blow. Not a strong fiscal start to 2019... docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    no donations are reported as nothing came in via Ko-Fi. Patreon donors will pay starting in Feb so that's when they will be reported. $1 per month can make a difference if enough people participate! patreon.com/KerbalSpaceAgeā¦
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    nearing 3rd sunrise and weather still not looking favorable enough for a Dhumla test flight. We want extremely good weather conditions so will have to remain patient and ensure the aircraft & crew have the best chance at success
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    weather should hold for good conditions to finally allow for a flight trial later today after 2nd sunrise. Ground crew are already organizing to get the Dhumla prepped for flight, maritime crew also driving our safety boat down to launch into the water 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    briefing has wrapped, Flight Officers Tedman and Aldeny are heading out to begin preflight while controllers get their consoles setup to monitor. Plan will be takeoff to 2.5km ASL, basic maneuvers, landing pass, touch & go, full stop landing
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    Dhumla has all engines running, Ted is in command this flight and Aldy has commed FD Lanalye with request to taxi out to the active. Aircraft has been tanked up to 30% capacity, carrying 1.2t of liquid fuel. No cargo mass is aboard for initial testing
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    no change to procedure has been made since ground testing. If an abort is required on the take off roll, reverse thrust will be applied while flaps are raised before wheel braking is used to avoid any swerving
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    everyone pensive after FD Lanalye granted take off clearance to the aircraft sitting out on Rwy27. Any moment now the 4 engines will roar and propel the vehicle down the runway and up to take off speed of 80m/s, or Vr - rotate! Control yoke will be pulled back and....
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    away they go! ~700m of roll followed by a smooth rotation off the runway with a steady 15-17m/s positive rate of climb. Aircraft is cleaned up - flaps & gear raised - as it passes through 800m continuing on runway heading until 2km 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    Ted is turning south before the mountains to heading 225 as they pass through 2km, reports no issues. Speed is 160m/s in the climb with throttle pulled back to 80%. Aircraft will bank no more than ~15° so pilots can get an initial feel for roll stability
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    aircraft is trimmed level @ 2.5km & Tedman reports he has been mostly HOTAS negative. Aircraft is cruising at 195m/s, they are already abreast of Umbarg. With more recovery room now he will put the Dhumla through a series of sweeping turns with gradually increasing angles of bank
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    nothing to report during the maneuver tests - Dhumla reached angles upwards of 40° both directions and flight crew reports no rollover - they can bank and the aircraft holds its position after controls are centered. Excellent! Ted has now begun to descend back towards KSC 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    left-turn landing approach has begun with a downwind leg out over the water. The crew will simulate a landing while passing over the runway at ~500m, allowing them room to recover if the approach is too slow and pitch moment overcomes control authority to keep nose up
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    approaching 10km out on final approach, Ted is finding things aren't quite what they expected from the simulator and is working the throttle a lot to find that good sweet spot of being able to descend while still holding level with authority remaining for a small flare
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    this aircraft requires a very flat approach and almost has to do a 3-point landing so the strain is not all placed on only one set of the two pairs of rear wheels, which do not contact the runway at the same time if the aircraft is flared nose up too high
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    Dhumla has flown by over head and is already turning north and re-configuring to setup for another pattern approach, right-turn this time. Ted says he has a good feel for it, will perform a touch and go as planned
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    with Ted rolling out of base leg onto final Aldy will shortly complete the landing configuration by setting full flaps and dropping the gear. Aircraft is just under 10km out <400m. Ted will be aiming to keep his approach speed at around 95-100m/s
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    coming down too steep, Ted had to level out and coast over almost half of the runway before touching down. Full throttle and pulling up flaps got the aircraft back into the air before running out of runway. Flight crew feel good about going full stop on their next attempt
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    aircraft is on short final <3km out and approach looks much better, aircraft should just clear the threshold and give the crew the full 2.2km length of the runway to come to a stop after touchdown - way more than they will need
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    Ted performed another T&G when the aircraft refused to settle on the runway. In fact it rebounded into the air several times rather hard. Gear was raised okay but everyone now wondering if it should have been retracted at all. Photo from approach just before initial landing 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    gear raise was just part of the checklist so was done without thought. If they are damaged & can't be lowered again flight crew will shut down engines, lock propellers and glide down to ditch in the water just offshore. Rescue boat remains on standby
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    back on final approach, gear is confirmed down and locked - phew! May still be damaged though so Ted is trying to approach even flatter and really hopes to grease this next attempt. Fuel remains for several more but main concern is the gear right now
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    a few more slight bumps on landing but halfway down the runway the aircraft finally settled and additional reverse thrust was applied to bring them to a stop shortly afterwards. Taxiing back to the HAB now, Ted says he can feel something off with the undercarriage
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    the Dhumla will shortly be parked back in the HAB and have engineers and mechanics swarming all over it. Sometime tomorrow we should know more about its condition and how pleased designers are (or aren't) with its flight performance after reviewing the test data
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    C7 & Genesis have finished their initial review of the Dhumla and its flight data. Gear is damaged, but thankfully can be repaired without needing to be replaced. Greater concern is lack of pitch authority at landing speeds making the aircraft tough to settle on landing
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    bounciness on both landings was due to Tedman holding so far back on the yoke at touchdown to keep the nose up even a little bit. The vertical strake will be modified to hold weights that will shift CoM further towards the rear. Can be removed if needed when carrying cargo loads
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    modifications and repairs to the aircraft are expected to take 2-3 weeks so hopefully we can get in another test flight before the end of the month. In better news, the overall flight data was extremely satisfying to engineers & the aircraft looks solid when aloft
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    next launch attempt is ready for operations to begin tomorrow @ 13:08 UTC - š GO PROGENY! š catch up on everything else that happened this past week and also learn more about the strange weather from yesterday: kerbalspace.agency/?p=8592 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    our aircraft have been getting larger and larger but we're close to the limit of what Genesis has envisioned propeller-based aircraft can achieve. They've officially announced the Dhumla will be the last entry in the program for the foreseeable future
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    looking ahead we're still waiting on C7 R&D, working in conjunction with a team from Wernher von Kerman, to finish developing the first prototype jet engine this year. The jet aircraft will fall under their own program, which will be announced in conjunction w/ the turbine reveal
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    report from the HAB is Dhumla repairs/modifications are finishing up and it will be ready for more flight trials early next week. Meanwhile the Deuce is also wrapping up its engines overhaul and general servicing to return to flight readiness the following week
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    HAB crew is wrapping up Dhumla repairs & modifications from the last flight test and the aircraft will be rolled out by the end of today. Forecast for tomorrow indicates a chance of high winds & rain but flight crew will be ready to go if conditions turn out to be favorable
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    winds this day cycle are actually stronger than predicted, so much so that the Dhumla couldn't even taxi safely thanks to the huge amount of surface area making up its vertical stabilizer. Flight crew hoping forecast for the next day cycle is also wrong - but for the better
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    weather continues to fail to cooperate and torrential rain is now moving through the area as expected. Conditions tomorrow are looking better but still not 100% and everyone wants to remove as many potential issues from the testing as possible. Still, fingers crossed!
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    FOs Tedman and Aldeny are finishing up their briefing to continue flight testing and will soon be heading out to begin preflight. We will be looking first to see how the Dhumla performs on takeoff/landing with the new ballast weights in the tail before moving into further tests
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    Tedman has called in for taxi/takeoff clearance. Aldeny will be in command this flight. Although both pilots can control the airplane its always important to specify who actually will have control. If they need to switch roles during flight, a verbal exchange is required
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    a little bit of trouble turning about at the end of Rwy27, nothing a bit more experience with the big plane will solve. No problems reported at taxi - tail weight is well short of being able to lift the nose while on the ground. Aircraft is lined up & has clearance for take off
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    after a smooth roll and rotation the Dhumla has climbed out with no issues, already approaching 1.5km ASL and Aldeny is beginning to come around to setup for an approach pattern, being mindful on the turns as CoM has been moved upwards almost atop CoL 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    passing abreast of KSC to the south on downwind leg Aldeny reports the aircraft feels much more naturally stable in pitch - nose still wants to drop (good!) but not nearly as much as before. No unbalance noticed during banks as steep as 30°
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    beginning the turn onto final, 16km out, Aldeny will first perform a touch & go to see how well the aircraft settles on the runway to ensure they would have room for a full stop landing on the next attempt
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    aircraft is climbing back out after a successful T&G but there was a scary swerve off the side of the runway as the plane took back to the air that has everyone concerned. Crew and controllers are still discussing options
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    if needed the rear cargo ramp can be opened, the aircraft will pitch up and some or all of the ballast weights can be jettisoned if we come to the conclusion that aircraft stability is an issue. Engineers are running some quick numbers right now
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    already descending on downwind, final decision was made to leave everything as-is, Aldeny says he can try to make a better approach and that the problem wasn't evident early in the landing. If it happens again they'll just do another touch and go
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    so focused on speed, altitude, throttle and being so low for a flat approach both crew lost orientation out over the water and missed the turn to final, now making a slow circle in the opposite direction to reset for final approach 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    gear down, flaps at full, airspeed dropping to 80-90m/s and just under 10km out has the aircraft lined up for short final. Aldeny reports things are still stable and has some pull left on the yoke to get the nose up for the landing flare
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    touching down heavy in the first 1/4 of the runway still gave the crew plenty of distance to roll and come to a stop with reverse thrust. Tedman raised flaps right after touchdown to ensure the nose settled properly and no swerving was evident. Aircraft is taxiing back to HAB
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    despite his best attempt and time in the sim, Aldeny still brought the aircraft down pretty roughly. Aircraft maintenance crews already say they want to have a look at the undercarriage today into tomorrow before she flies again
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    we forgot to make note yesterday that with the added ballast weight and a greater load of fuel the takeoff mass of the Dhumla set a new bit.ly/KSARecords for Heaviest Aircraft Flown (14.493t - over twice what was previously set by the Deuce) and it's not done yet!
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    Dhumla has been cleared to continue flight trials. Aldeny & Tedman have been putting extra hours into the sim, which is now even better thanks to actual flight data. Weather forecast for tomorrow looks poor until after 3rd sunset, so possible flight after 3rd sunrise
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    weather conditions are improving as expected after high winds earlier today. Dhumla is rolled out and ground crews are prepping the aircraft for Flight Officers Tedman & Aldeny, who are in the ready room suiting up ahead of briefing. Wheels up @ ~00:10 UTC
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    running a bit behind schedule, flight crew has radioed for taxi/takeoff clearance. Today's test will finally put the aircraft through its paces while in the air and cover many things: stalls, G-loading, engine-out and service ceiling
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    good departure from Rwy09, aircraft is climbing out along runway heading for 2.5km. Most maneuvers will be done over the Kerblantic just east of KSC. We have our rescue boat in the area ready to move in should the aircraft end up in the water for whatever reason
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    trimmed level at 2.5km ASL, Tedman has brought the aircraft around in a broad circle to setup for a power-on stall, which will leave the throttle set to 80% (cruise) and pitch the nose up as much as 60° to initiate a stall, followed by recovery
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    aircraft behaved extremely well during the stall. Nose still high at the time of excessive AoA, it pitched straight over without roll and recovered easily out of the resulting dive. Aldy reports Tedman is now climbing and coming about for the next stall test
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    flight crew is now set for a power-off stall from 4km. Throttle has been reduced to idle and aircraft will hold pitch level until it can no longer be maintained. Stick neutral once dive begins, we will see if the aircraft can recover itself w/o throttle up
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    ~2.5min before airspeed dropped to stall and aircraft nose-dived towards the ground. It did begin to slowly nose up & recover but Tedman had to pull up manually as they passed through 1.5km to ensure they didn't smack into the water. Still - great performance
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    satisfied with stall recovery, flight crew is moving on to G-loading. Tedman will climb back to 4km then initiate a dive, pulling out at up to 4-5Gs. If the engineers ran their numbers right, the wings shouldn't rip off. Even if we do it twice in a row...
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    whoo! Reaching speeds up to just over mach 0.7 and pulling up with peak 4.7G and 4.9G we are happy to report the aircraft still has both wings attached š Flight crew is re-establishing a trimmed-out cruise at 4km ASL before moving on to engine-out tests
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    autopilot enabled to hold wings level, outer-most port-side engine has been shut down and feathered. Opposite rudder trim has been applied. Throttle began 50% at shutdown and has been slowly increased back to 80% without affecting level flight while holding heading
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    with one engine still out the aircraft was brought around, throttle reduced back to 50% and now the inner-most port-side engine has been shutdown and feathered. Time to see if that huge vertical tail can do the job it was designed for and hold the aircraft steady even at cruise
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    with rudder at full deflection and a slight bank, aircraft can indeed hold heading at 80% throttle while maintaining 4km! Aircraft will remain in this configuration a bit longer to collect more data then both engines will be restarted for a climb to maximum altitude
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    the view out Aldeny's window just a minute ago as they passed through some light clouds and over the mountains, climbing for 9km, maybe even 10km ASL. Throttles wide open, vertical speed is still 10m/s and pitch authority is only half used up 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    elevators are at full deflection, vertical speed dropping below 5m/s and gradually falling but will remain positive and stabilize soon. Aircraft will continue to slowly climb as it burns off fuel and gets lighter. The first goal will be to exceed Val & Jeb's record of 8.516km
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    another record broken! Fist-pound in the cockpit as Dhumla zooms through 8.516km and continues climbing, approaching the West Shore Desert with comms and telemetry being relayed through Umbarg aerial. Progress will continue to be slow, vertical speed @ ~2m/s 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    aircraft is heading back to KSC, leveled off at 4km ASL after the flight crew declared an emergency and made a rapid descent once loss of cabin pressure was detected by the onboard systems. They are back in breathable air now, report aircraft feels structurally sound
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    coming around for final approach Tedman has had no trouble controlling the aircraft as normal and Aldeny found no leaks in the cabin (cargo hold is not pressurized). They have been cleared for landing back on Rwy09, emergency vehicles have still been prepped & are standing by
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    the aircraft is taxiing back to the HAB after an uneventful (if still a bit rough) landing. It was scheduled for downtime & inspection after this test anyways but it seems there will be more to look at than we thought. Glad to have the crew home safe!
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    our week of operations has concluded, be sure to check out our Weekly Ops Report to get all the information on what has transpired: kerbalspace.agency/?p=8769 (BTW new altitude record is 8.683km ASL) 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    BREAKING: KNN has reported that the entire executive division of C7 Aerospace has been arrested and the government is launching a full scale investigation into the company. We are partners with them and have no idea what is going on - this is all news to us!!
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    we have learned all we know from the press conference just held: kerbalspace.agency/?p=8781 this will have an immediate impact on fixed-wing flight here at the Cape, however the long-term impact is still largely speculative since more details have yet to be released by authorities
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    Ops Director @DKerman_KSA has been mostly stone-walled in Sheltered Rock attempting to get some answers on the whole C7 debacle. Learn more along with what else went on this week in our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=8798 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    rumor is the C7 fiasco is related to their finances. Given our partnership, Head of Finances Mortimer is double-checking all our books, especially since we need to make a large purchase order to replace parts that have been lost/damaged over the past few months
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    bit.ly/FebFinances report posted. Last month we nearly recouped our losses from January, thanks in part to our bit.ly/KSA_Patreon subscribers. Become a Space Envoy today and help support the KSA!
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    C7 Aerospace continues to suffer from lack of executive management and the company remains effectively shut down. @DKerman_KSA has returned from Sheltered Rock with few answers. What the government is keeping a lid on, no one knows still but it's a tight lid
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    recap and learn more about the events from this past week via our Ops Summary, including the return of a Desk Note now that @DKerman_KSA is back from his trip to Sheltered Rock kerbalspace.agency/?p=8811 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    there have been ongoing closed-door judicial sessions regarding the C7 Aerospace case. Executives remain "detained" in Sheltered Rock however furloughed employees have begun to recently receive pay again - so it's still completely & frustratingly unclear what's going on
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    BREAKING: new development in the C7 investigation as reported by KNN is that an operation in Umbarg just finished rounding up several of the prominent airship Barons and "detained" them in a similar manner to the C7 executive division. Craziness!!
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    the report is a good sign because an attempt by the government to contain this would have been disastrous. Still, while it's being made known that this is happening there's still been no official word on *why*. We'll be sure to continue to share whatever info we can
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    Head of Finances Mortimer confirms we had another profitable month in March, although just barely and only because Genesis is still largely on hold until C7 gets its affairs in order and spending on Dhumla testing is nonexistent. Full report: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    note that our profits for March would have been even more marginal if not for our Patreon donors, so thank you! Pledge your support of the KSA and help us continue to explore: patreon.com/KerbalSpaceAge⦠every little bit can make a difference!
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    end of the week is here at last! Catch anything you may have missed in our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=8916 we suggest all our rocketry crews get some rest this weekend - launch campaign for the next Ascension mission kicks off in earnest next week! 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    all C7 Aerospace employees have been given a 2-week notice... that they'll be returning to work! Still lots of gag orders going around and closed-door judicial sessions but Ops Dir @DKerman_KSA has been invited to Sheltered Rock next week. Hopefully for some answers at last
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    a Civvie crash-landed on approach to Kravass General Airport back in Feb, the third fixed-wing aviation accident since 2016 (not associated with the KSA). The pilot died, and the Air Safety Administration just released their formal report: pilot error
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    the sloped runway and boxed-in approach to KGA however was also cited as it creates a lot of difficulty for even experienced pilots. There's already been talk about a newer, larger airport being built for Kravass to better handle the larger aircraft like the Dhumla 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    a relatively mundane week here at the KSC but as always exciting things are on the horizon. Catch anything you may have missed or find more details on what transpired in our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=8969 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    HAB workers are getting the hangar cleaned up & the K2-X engine investigation is moving all its material offsite as it wraps up work and hopes to release results in a few days. Dhumla will be getting a full check-over this week in preparation for flight tests to resume next week
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    there is still a ton of redacted information about the whole airship/C7 legal battle but apparently peace terms have been arranged and everyone can get back to business. Here's what we know and how things have been affected: kerbalspace.agency/?p=8988 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    the investigation into why the Dhumla cockpit lost pressure on the last test flight has already restarted. Once completed, the aircraft will again attempt to climb as high as possible in a test flight while also performing a cross-country flight to KGA
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    sliding backwards again, April financial report just published by Mortimer shows we should still have just enough money even if we continue to suffer losses to make to where we can launch commercial payloads later this year. Otherwise R&D will be shut down docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    question we get often is whether our aircraft have autopilots. Not completely. They can hold roll/pitch/yaw but cannot hold altitude or heading nor navigate to a location. So aircraft can be flown hands-off to minimize crew workload but still needs to be trimmed & told what to do
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    incident report from the last Dhumla test flight (kerbalspace.agency/?p=8759) has been released. The outflow valve in the rear suffered a failure, lowering pressure in the cabin. Crew response was correct and safeties properly prevented rapid depressurization
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    valve was repaired, not replaced so further testing can be done to better understand how it failed in the first place if it fails again. Ground crews will roll the aircraft out for flight tomorrow, which will also include a cross-country trip to KGA for a touch & go
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    weather has continued to improve since yesterday and ground crews are prepping the Dhumla for its test flight while Flight Officers Aldy & Tedman are being briefed. The aircraft will perform a cross-country flight to KGA then attempt a new altitude record on the way back 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    flight crew has the Dhumla powered up and ready to go. If you don't know what these massive engines sound like, here's a clip. Taxi & takeoff clearance has been granted twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrā¦
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    winds from the northeast forced takeoff from Rwy09. After climbing out to 800m runway heading on standard departure Aldeny is coming about now to head for Kravass General Airport while Tedman sits in the right seat handling comms and navigation for the outbound leg
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    Aldy is lvl @ 4km & Ted has signed off as they pass behind the mtns on their way direct to KGA - after a flyby of Umbarg to say "HAI THERE" to the airship Barons & let them know we are back in business (doubtful any were aboveground to see the aircraft but it's the principle) 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    Dhumla made contact with us several minutes ago through Kravass 135km out, still at 4km, reports a smooth flight. Able to hold a steady altitude, we can use the ASL/AGL data they've sent to get a look at the terrain they flew over since shortly after they last signed off 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    a smooth descent now has them heading downwind towards final, Ted has confirmed runway is clear of traffic while Aldy slots through some terrain to give himself a good amount of room to make the approach. A smaller aircraft could do a tighter pattern 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    we lost signal shortly after the last tweet and have just now received word that the aircraft has crashed off the far threshold of the runway. Emergency vehicles are already on their way out. Thick smoke is seen from the tarmac but no one saw an explosion
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    emergency crews report that the aircraft engines are on fire but fuel leakage from the near-empty tanks means they don't pose a risk to the main fuselage. Getting no response from the cabin, exterior hatch was blown & rescuers are inside trying to extricate the crew
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    we are saddened to report that Flight Officer Aldeny was pronounced dead at the scene and Tedman was found alive but unresponsive. He is currently being rushed to the nearest clinic for treatment pending transfer to a full medical facility
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    several witnesses saw the crash as they knew the aircraft was coming by. Reports indicate it seemed to attempt an actual landing before trying to go around & failed to take back to the air before hitting the end of the runway. Here is a photo of it on short final 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    the Air Safety Administration has already dispatched agents to secure the crash site and will be conducting a full investigation of the incident, with which we & C7 Aerospace will of course fully cooperate
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    the Dhumla fire has finally been quenched, thankfully the aircraft carried little fuel so it could fly higher on the way back for a new altitude record attempt. Being mostly intact will be a boon for the crash investigation and likely also gave Tedman a chance
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    Tedman has just gotten out of surgery - they managed to patch him up enough (head hemorrhage, spinal damage, internal injuries) that he is able to be moved to a larger facility for more work but still remains in critical condition and has not yet shown any signs of waking up
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    Tedman update: downgraded to serious condition after he spent several more hours in surgery and will still need additional procedures over time but doctors report they at least saw him regain consciousness for a short time and does not appear to show signs of paralysis
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    Tedman remains in the ICU but also remains responsive & doctors are hopeful he will continue to recover. Aldeny's remains will be examined and then shipped back to his home cavern of Ockr for burial. Services will be held over next weekend
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    we are all still reeling from the events of yesterday. Aldeny will be a sorely missed ray of sunshine around campus - his energetic personality could motivate anyone. Altho it's hard, we must push on in his memory. Our Ops Summary has details on that: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9083 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    Dhumla crash site has been cleaned up and moved to an offsite location for further analysis. ASA says they will hand over the data from the aircraft flight recorder to us & C7 once they have properly analyzed it, to ensure there is no tampering with evidence
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    we've updated Flight Officer Aldeny's background information on his crew member page (click the bottom of his portrait) to properly reflect his nearly 1 year of service with the KSA. Head on over to review all his achievements and missions ops.kerbalspace.agency/?crew=aldy 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    Tedman has been transferred out of the ICU after 3 more surgical procedures and doctors say his outlook has gotten better. His fine motor control appears compromised but therapists are hopeful he can regain the ability to be self-sufficient. We wish him a speedy recovery
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    everyone is ready for a relaxing weekend after such a busy week! Be sure you're caught up with everything and learn even more details via our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9127 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    Flight Officer Aldeny was laid to rest today at Ockr. Kerbs don't believe in an afterlife so we will have to carry on his memory with our actions in the land of the living. @DKerman_KSA was in attendance with Genesis team & all pledged to continue the work Aldy started. RIP āØš 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    despite our promise to stay committed to fixed-wing aircraft after the crash of the Dhumla, lack of funds may force us to cut back on our participation via the Genesis program. Regardless, C7 Aerospace has pledged to continue development even without us
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    Tedman was moved to the outpatient ward today. Doctors have repaired all they can & say it's now up to him - they expect he could possibly fly again one day if he commits himself fully to physical therapy but they can't be sure. Tedman says he will though and we believe him!
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    CFO Mortimer is pleased with our gains in May, but we will still be struggling these next few months to afford the test launches needed to draw in more commercial partners and thus more money. it's a vicious balancing game. Full report: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    ASA was finally able to interview FO Tedman as part of their ongoing crash investigation, the delay due not only to his physical state but also his mental one. He has been receiving counseling and continues to healthily process the event and all the "what if"s
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    Tedman was not in command of the flight at the time of the crash but that does not necessarily clear him of any wrongdoing. Investigators have now concluded their crew/witness interviews but are still carefully examining the aircraft itself for any attributing problems
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    did you miss anything this week? Be sure you're all caught up with our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9196 Weekend goal for everyone - including you: spend some time sitting out under a clear night sky gazing into infinity and pondering the endless mysteries of the universe
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    today marks our 6th revolution around Kerbol since the founding of the Kerbal Space Agency! š„ Here's a look back at some of what we managed to get done in our 1st revolution. Look backwards in the album for more flickr.com/photos/kerbal_⦠
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    we've received the Dhumla flight data recorder from the ASA as they begin to conclude their investigation. Genesis program will analyze its contents however we will not be releasing our own report and continue to wait for the official ASA accident investigation report
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    swinging back into the red, June financial report leaves us without enough funds to launch an Ascension Mk2 unless we can put a kerbal in space this month. No pressure! Poor CFO Mortimer has quite a bit more gray hairs now... docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    allow us to remind everyone that bit.ly/KSA_Patreon is a way to help directly fund operations - more money means more rockets means more launches means more exploration! Of course, responsibility still lies with us to also produce viable commercial launch vehicles
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    the ASA report on the Dhumla crash back in May has been released & we've summarized the findings here: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9339 TL;DR - pilot error was the sole cause. Aldeny was responsible but not without redemption. New Dhumla will be built for further development under C7 only 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    C7 Aerospace Division's manufacturing arm has finally satisfied the initial Civvie production demand from back in 2017 and has begun to convert some of its build space to Deuce and Dhumla production at both plants in Kravass and Sheltered Rock
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    our gains in July are thanks solely to our success in putting a kerbal in space. Now we have to again stave off bankruptcy with a successful orbital insertion later this year, an endeavor the majority of our remaining funds are dedicated to. No pressure! docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    C7 has begun to build their new Dhumla aircraft at their Kravass plant, altho the wings and airframe will still be shipped here to undergo final assembly in the HAB, until C7 can get their own surface facility built early next year with the construction of the new Kravass airport
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    after many delays, original planned to be finished in April, the airport for the Kongo River Research Station (KRG) has been completed. It features a new runway/taxiway system that will be used for the future KRA near Kravass opening in 2020 & can easily handle the Dhumla 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    the research station near the source of the Kongo has already established itself as a frontier scientific outpost for the region, and now activity can increase due to faster service from fixed-wing aircraft, tho airships still provide cargo transport for large shipments
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    many continued thanks to our bit.ly/KSA_Patreon donors for getting us into the green this past month! August financial report is available here: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d⦠we expect to see narrow margins for the remainder of the year
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    šāØHappy Operational Birthday to us!āØš KERZZAH!
today is the start of our 4th year in operation š„ Send us a gift - tell us what you enjoy most about the Kerbal Space Agency.
                    
                    
                    
                today is the start of our 4th year in operation š„ Send us a gift - tell us what you enjoy most about the Kerbal Space Agency.
 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    wrap it up folks, weekend is here! Get caught up on all our operations this past week with additional details via our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9767 it's been mostly crummy weather all week so let's all hope for a turn-around this weekend 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    cargo airship just finished unloading and the final ferry of new Dhumla parts is on its way to the HAB for assembly. This is the last time we'll build it here, since C7 is obligated to do so for the remainder of 2019. 2020 onward will be at KRG (Kongo) or the new KRA (Kravass) 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    learn more about today's decision to delay the Mk2 orbital attempt in our weekly Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9801 Have a great weekend everyone, and we look forward to this one especially at KSC. Anyone know why? 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    we've kept Tedman listed as Injured ever since the crash and he's finally made the request to have his status changed to Retired. Sad as we are to see him "officially" go, we recognize this is an important step on his road to healing & continue to wish him all the best 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    the Mobile Launch Platform continues to work towards completion, with the main deck being finalized this week. Anyone notice something different not in the original design renders? Also, the Dhumla continues to be built towards completion next month as well 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    September may have been a rough month financially, but we remain in decent standing with just enough funds to complete our planned operations for the year. Thanks as always to our bit.ly/KSA_Patreon supporters! docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    while a lot of work remains in the investigation, all parties involved feel a point has been reached where we can release a statement not only on the events of this past week but the events of the past few years that led up to this brazen attack: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9965
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    TL;DR - a sect of violent Monolithic followers remains set against our space-bound ambitions even after being secretly banished to the other side of the planet by religious leaders, where they happened upon a large unknown population of kerbs receptive to "salvation"
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    TL;DR (it is a lot to take in) - our current stance is to work to determine all the details of how this attack was carried out and put in place measures to prevent future attempts. We are not backing down nor is any action yet able to be taken against those responsible
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    new external sensors from R&D were being installed under the wings of the Deuce last week. Lead Engineer Simon plans to finish up once KSC is re-opened and allow the Genesis program to pioneer new territory in weather analysis by flying through storm systems 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    the radome has been completed on the tall hills west of KSC and will be hooked up to the Tracking Station by tomorrow, which means we can return to KSC next week! Due to security, it's tough working remotely for engineering and R&D teams w/o full file access 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    although the rocket sled track is still being dismantled for shipping to the Kongo, enough runway is clear for the Dhumla to complete ground trials ahead of flight later this week, under command of a C7 flight crew that arrived over the weekend from Kravass 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    thanks to increasing support from our bit.ly/KSA_Patreon donors, CFO Mortimer says all the unplanned expenses of Oct in addition to some new R&D didn't leave us as deep in the red as we could have been. Financial report is available here: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    we loaded up the Dhumla with cargo for the first time earlier today & it just successfully departed for the Kongo River research facility where it will conduct the remainder of its flight trials and overall development under sole oversight of C7 Aerospace Division 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    āØKERZZAH!⨠today we get to celebrate our 11th trip around Kerbol on space ship Kerbin since the KSA began operations back in 2016. That brings our celestial odometer up to 939,011,983.1456km or nearly 1 light hour. Here's to another 106.5 day trip around the sun š„
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    CFO Mortimer is happy that we managed to squeeze out a slight profit last month! Thanks as always to our bit.ly/KSA_Patreon supporters for their help as well, with a new record for donations this month docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    the Dhumla has just received its preliminary flight certification from the Air Safety Administration. Flight testing continues but the design of the aircraft is locked in for manufacturing to begin production models at C7's plant in Kravass
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    aircraft operations decreased significantly from 42 missions last year however flight duration and range both increased, plus Jeb & Val were mostly busy with Ascension then we lost two pilots as well which didn't help. Still, a decent accounting this year for Genesis 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    check it out - 2019 was the first full calendar year that saw continuous operations! We did take a few hits this year that reduced our operational capacity but KSC was not shut down for any extended period of time. Here's looking to a stronger 2020! 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    welcome to 2020!! šš„ Kerbs are eager to get back to work next week, so much so that Operations Director @DKerman_KSA revoked access privileges to force some to take a vacation. We're not naming names but their initials start with Wernher von Kerman
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    KSA 2020 ops are kicking off this week with meetings! Lots and lots of meetings as the various programs decide on their goals for the coming year, which we will report on over the course of this week. Admin makes final decisions but all team members contribute 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    CFO Mortimer has compiled his report for December as well as all of 2019 to show that we actually managed to pull off a small profit this past year. Kerzzah! Still quite a ways from net gain but a promising step towards commercial success  docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d⦠
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    the Dhumla prototype takes to the sky from the Kongo River base on yet another test flight as it nears full certification & the start of production. This aircraft will be a game-changer for shipping, hauling less cargo than an airship but up to 4x as fast 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    what are we hoping to achieve in 2020? Last week we shared details on Extremis goals and now we have information for the rest of our programs in this report: kerbalspace.agency/?p=10258 what are you most looking forward to from us in 2020? 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    KSC is about to get a lot bigger! Here is the final plan for the commercial airport expansion project that will begin construction this month and finish up by August. Work on the new railway tunnel from Umbarg continues on schedule to be complete in early March 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    great question. We were wondering if anyone would ask why no parallel runways but this is another reason besides winds changing a lot near the water. Aircraft can still take off/land on Rwy 03/21 even during launch operations twitter.com/Bookz2232/statā¦
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    #OTD in 2019 we wheeled the Dhumla out of the hangar for the very first time. The largest and most complex plane yet built, it is still undergoing flight certification although it is at last in the final stages of becoming a vital asset to the cargo industry this year 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    ahead of the new commercial airport expansion, both turf runways have been decommissioned so work can begin to create the raised ground upon which will reside a new hangar tarmac, ATC tower, taxiways and a new runway. They have served us well! 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    monthly financial report has been released by CFO Mortimer - lightning towers, centrifuge, pad repairs - lots of large infrastructure expenses this month. We expect to burn money the first half of this year but not as much as January (we hope) docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    congratulations to C7 Aerospace Division - their hard work on independently-continued Dhumla development have allowed the aircraft to reach full ASA flight certification & officially enter into service with the cargo industry. We look forwards to seeing them passing through KSC! 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    Dhumla cargo aircraft has landed, carrying this month's second & final Boosterton SRB for test firing. After it is unloaded the Kerbin I recovery crew will load up with their equipment and fly out to the Kongo to prepare to hunt down the impending impact site
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    Kerbin I has come home! There was a lot more of the probe that survived re-entry than expected, which will make for interesting post-flight analysis. Lead Scientist Cheranne & her team with the high-alt KB crew are set to depart aboard this Dhumla when it heads back to the Kongo 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    earning the orbital prize purse not only made Feb a profitable month but secured our financial future - at least through the remainder of this year. By that time we hope to be placing commercial payloads into orbit! Full financial report: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    š« KERZZAH! ā - 12 times we have now traveled around Kerbol since the KSA was founded - at 1,025,316,660.821km distance traveled we are just 3 light minutes shy of a light hour's travel time over the same distance. Spaceship Kerbin is tooling along at a constant 9.28km/s
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    CFO Mortimer has published our latest financial report, which shows us eating - nay, gorging on the profits we made in Feb thanks to the orbital Kerbin I mission. Another reason to pause ops - rocket flights not yet sustainable. Full report: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    financial report for April is now available (docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦) are we happy with this months earnings? Not really, because we want to be spending this money on space missions! We continue be thankful though for our bit.ly/KSA_Patreon contributors!
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    May finances have been published (docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦). The centrifuge has been paid off and we have built up a bit more spending capital to hopefully finally put to use this month. We hope to lose money in June cause then we'd be exploring hard!
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    the hangars for large aircraft (even larger than the Dhumla, someday) have all been completed, allowing for shelter during rainy weather when loading/unloading cargo, which will be stored in warehouses off to the right that have yet to begin construction 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    why are these hangars not enclosed like the small ones you ask? Good question! The airship barons, in their settlement against the aircraft industry (kerbalspace.agency/?p=8988) won some petty privileges, one of which was only airships can be kept in large full surface enclosures 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    income is back in the red for June as expected but nearly as bad as CFO Mortimer feared, leaving us in good shape to push forward full-steam ahead for the remainder of the year. You can always review our latest monthly report on yearly finances here: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    high-altitude KB crew are loading up to fly out to the Kongo, with 2 Dhumlas to carry UTVs and supplies. Crew will fly out in Deuces. Though none are our own aircraft, this is still the first time using no airships for mission transport! Not always cheaper, but progressive 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    big spending this month is what we want to see, working hard to get Ascension closer to being able to accept full commercial launch contracts. CFO Mortimer says we are still looking healthy to continue operations as planned thru 2020. Full report: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    farewell party in the HAB today for the Genesis team, as the program was officially shut down at the end of July. This past week was the final few days of clearing out offices/equipment. We're happy tho that those we couldn't shift to other programs have been picked up by C7 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    all 3 aircraft developed under the program will continue to be produced and flown of course, and we look forward to seeing what the teams at C7 come up with in the future! Wernher's R&D dept is still partnered with C7 Aerospace Division to work on jet technology
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    Genesis ended as our 2nd-most successful and profitable program behind KerBalloon, giving us 33,413 funds in net income that will now go towards rocket development. Here are some more impressive stats from nearly 4 years of operation 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    high-altitude KerBalloon team are hopping on a Dhumla flight out to Ockr where they will then take an airship out to bit.ly/Sector_M-J8B4 for their release. Fixed-wing flight predictably starting to take over for inter-regional travel
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    a Dhumla taxis in at the Kongo research base carrying equipment and some team members for the high-altitude KerBalloon crew, who will be setting up shop there for the next month to run an extended balloon release campaign for better data on weather patterns in the region 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    earlier at 3rd sunrise a Dhumla departed KSC, seen zoomed in from the opposite runway end. The commercial airport expansion has increased air traffic in the area three-fold since Genesis shut down & has been a boon to industry in the nearby cavern of Umbarg 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    Mk1-B capsule has undergone recovery trials while already on the ground/water, now it's time to drop it out the back of a Dhumla and test actual chute deployment and landing/splashdown. This is done late in testing since it runs the highest risk of damaging the capsule 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    we got in a few flights this year before the Genesis program was shuttered. Fixed-wing aircraft development remains alive with C7 Aerospace Division and missions like those previously flown by Cdr Val & Cpt Jeb are now handled by a growing pool of commercial aviators 
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    sad news out of Sheltered Rock - a Deuce commuter flight crashed on landing, killing all 6 crew and passengers. To date this is the deadliest fixed wing aviation accident. This is already the 3rd aircraft crash this year and Air Safety Administration is calling foul
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    against the ASA's advisement, during the C7/Airship Baron settlement in 2019 restrictions on pilot licensing were loosened. They are blaming Assembly for letting those gov't members with financial ties to the airship industry work to make fixed-wing flight less safe
                    
                    
                    
                 
                
                        Kerbal Space Agency
                        @KSA_MissionCtrl
                    
                    while any new flare up between the airship and aircraft industries will no longer directly affect us, we stand with C7 and the ASA, will help fight for better safety regulations to be re-established. We are saddened to see such squabbling result in the loss of life š
                    
                    
                    
                 
             
             
             
             
             
            





































































































