Our largest rocket to date finally gets its chance to help us prove that we are capable of achieving orbital space flight. We’ve spent the last year working up towards this mission but are we really ready? Only one way to find out…
As the first mission of a new vehicle, this dispatch includes all the design and development leading up to launch. To skip to the launch, click here. If you would like to follow the mission of its payload, click here.
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
these are all the instruments we will attempt to cram into the Extremis probes. Design will not be finalized until later this year after we've had more experience with orbital probes, starting with Kerbin I (instruments not to scale)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the data we have so far on the hazardous radiation region in space tells us three main things:
1: it extends above 580km near the equator
2: it gets "fuzzy" around the edges with a larger area extending closer to the surface
3: it stops entirely if you travel south far enough
1: it extends above 580km near the equator
2: it gets "fuzzy" around the edges with a larger area extending closer to the surface
3: it stops entirely if you travel south far enough
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
fully exploring this region will be a goal of our first orbital probe Kerbin I, but until then we'll get what data we can from our sub-orbital missions, such as correlating data with a northward launch & flying higher with a Mk6 Block II
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
in related news however scientists have released a new post detailing the findings of the recent Progeny flights in regards to the hazardous radiation region, now closer to being called a "belt" - kerbalspace.agency/?p=7542
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we can get into a low orbit on a single burn but for higher altitude/heavier payloads we'll need a vacuum engine to take up the charge in space. Bluedog Design Bureau has won the contract, presenting us with a great second-stage pusher
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
meet the radiation belt! Or maybe it's just the *inner* belt? Report has been published detailing what our Progeny rocket missions have discovered about the so-called hazardous radiation region up in space: kerbalspace.agency/?p=7937
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
TL;DR - we can well-define a "no go" region for future space missions that leaves plenty of room in LKO for kerbed space flight, but there still may be some challenges to advancing further out towards Mun if the radiation discovered at the poles extends far out into space
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
not much has been said still of Kerbin I, our first planned satellite to launch when Ascension Mk1 proves it is able to make orbit reliably. It is still under constant redesign as the capabilities of the Ascension Mk1 & satellite requirements on orbit become clearer
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
what we can say is that the Kerbin series of satellites will test numerous new tech, including reaction control systems, larger-capacity batteries, a radioisotope thermoelectric generator and all the science instruments that will eventually fly on the Extremis probes
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ultimately, unless failures occur on orbit, none of the Kerbin probes will remain in space and all will eventually decay back into the atmosphere to burn up - except for the RTG test missions of course, which will return the generator to the surface for re-use or safe disposal
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
following the Kerbin probes will be named missions into longer-term orbits to carry out various tasks including mapping, communications, science studies and technology testing. Larger Ascension vehicles will be developed to lift heavier loads. No timeline yet for a Munshot, sry!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Viklun vacuum engine had a successful first run on our test stand today. It is using a bell made for sea-level pressures from which the design team can validate the planned performance of the larger vacuum bell. There will be more static fires throughout this week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the data from tests last week of the Viklun have been transferred in full to Bluedog - it looked good in our analysis! Unless they find anything serious we should have first delivery around March 2019 twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ππ HAPPY NEW YEAR!! ππ
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 π₯β¨
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 π₯β¨
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
everyone is psyched to get some kerbals into space this year! That's pretty much a definite after capsule is certified - Ascension Mk1 is what we would use and it looks like a solid lifter. Orbit? Well, we have a whole year but we'll have to see how the Viklun performs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
2 more K2-X lifter engines have arrived to complete some add'l Ascension Mk1 boosters next month. With 4 remaining in our current inventory the plan right now is to allot 2 for more sub-orbital capsule testing, 1 for a kerbed flight & 1 for 2nd stage vac engine orbital flight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all the science instruments we'll be including on the Extremis probes are ready to be tested in space, we're just waiting on a good means of getting them up there. Primary vehicle would be Ascension but can't rule out a future Progenitor rocket either twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
on a related note, Head of R&D Wernher von Kerman is *not* happy with Head of Finances Mortimer and the cuts he made to our R&D budget this year, so we hope to get him some operational test data soon because, well - an unhappy Wernher is not a thing you want around...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ever since the Mk6 debuted a year ago Progenitor has been cranking away at R&D and accumulating design goals for the Mk7. Like all its forebears, it will be a pathfinder for new technologies, most of which will make their way onto Ascension rockets. Here they are:
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our initial order of 5 K2-X lifters for the Ascension Mk1 has been satisfied today with the final engine delivery. We will soon have 3 more on the way as well. Additional orders will depend on the success of the upcoming 2nd-stage engine orbital test flight later this year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
if the K2-X falls short of our orbital needs, we will have to wait about a year for a new 1.25m lifter engine to allow some design iteration with the gimbal system on the smaller Progeny Mk7 engine. Still, it can continue to support sub-orbital capsule flights
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
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
earlier today before 2nd sunset the latest K2-X engine was undergoing a routine ascent simulation static fire on our test stand. Some fault during testing led the engine to explode, causing irreparable damage to the test stand and rattling the windows of the R&D complex
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today's accident with the 1.25m test stand will not affect Progeny Mk7 development, as its new vacuum engine is small enough to test at Rockomax's own facility. The Viklun 1.25m vac engine will simply be tested during unkerbed flight as it is far & away by the time it ignites
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the C7/Airship fiasco has thrown global shipping into a bit of disarray and delayed the arrival of our 2nd stage vacuum engine but the Viklun from Bluedog Design Bureau is at last in the VAB undergoing initial checkouts! It will hopefully power 1.25m payloads into orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
originally designed as an 0.625m engine, it was scaled up to 1.25m for use with Ascension and instead became the precursor for the 0.625m Ospray engine planned for Progenitor. The enlarged design puts out 68kN of thrust with an ISP of 360
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
we are happy to reveal the blueprint of the complete Viklun upper stage for the Ascension Mk1-II lifter! Two images after shows it modeled to place a 1t payload into a circular 40Β° inclined 100km orbit with a hefty error margin of nearly 700m/s of Ξv to spare
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Mk1 Capsule tips the scale at ~1.5t so it should be able to make a low orbit - we'll have news on that later this week as work is still being done to confirm it's possible. Even if not, we already know we can design satellites massing <1t
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
even if we cut the tank size in half, the Block I was unable to make orbit without the payload itself requiring its own engine to complete the burn and we don't want to waste payload mass on more fuel. The Block II will be the only lifter to carry Viklun upper stages
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
furthermore, in the case of this 100km orbit the Block II has enough power on its own to lob the entire Viklun upper stage to that height, so the Viklun only has to start twice in some cases, although it is capable of as many as three restarts (ascent/orbit/de-orbit)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
announced earlier this week, our Viklun orbital stage still doesn't have its own tab on the Ascension program page as we're working out how we want to identify this vehicle on the site and Ops Tracker, since the lifter stage also has its own patch & blueprint...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our astronauts officially have a ride into orbit! Assuming everything was modeled properly, the Ascension Mk1 Block II lifter + the Viklun orbital stage can successfully place a capsule into a 40Β° inclined 100km circular orbit with ~230m/s of spare Ξv! Here's a full render
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we bet you all thought *next week* was going to be the exciting one! We made quite a few ambitious announcements this past week, so let's take a closer look at what still needs to be done to get something up into orbit in our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=8935
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our partners over at Archtagon Aerospace have come up with a cold gas engine future satellites can use to adjust their orbits with the same resources needed for orientation at better efficiency with greater thrust (so better than placing 4 or even 8 thrusters pointing aft)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the cold gas engine is nowhere near powerful enough for orbital insertion, which is why it was so important that the Viklun upper stage was designed to be able to reach orbit on its own and reduce the requirements placed on the payload to allow more mass for instruments
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
also, while we will eventually have an 0.625m LF/O vacuum engine designed for satellites that will be more powerful for a few dozen extra kilos of mass, this engine is vastly simpler and thus more reliable for the years-long service time most satellite missions will require
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/AscensionProgr⦠team have decided there's no mission profile that fits the Mk1 Block II so it will be merged with the Viklun Mk1 to create a single vehicle: the Ascension Mk2. So the Mk1 will carry sub-orbital payloads and the Mk2 will be for orbital missions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
pad workers have been inspecting the launch towers and engine clamps and Lead Engineer Simon reports the amount of wear they are experiencing is less than predicted for this many launches, meaning we can choose to let loose an Ascension rocket at full thrust if needed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the heat shield dropped from the Mk1 capsule shows only 2.5% of its surface was ablated away during re-entry. This is good news because a thinner heat shield can save as much as 180kg - atop an Ascension Mk2 upper stage that's an extra 65m/s of Ξv
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've realized that our earlier tweet could be misleading - the Ascension Mk2 will likely *not* make its 1st flight w/ a capsule on top, but eventually it will. First mission or two would prove orbital placement with a test mass or commercial probe payload twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
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
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/dβ¦
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
Mk6 is on its way out to be mounted. Progeny rockets have their own carry vehicle but it won't do any longer once the Mk7 comes around - those will use the same carry vehicle that bears the Ascension Mk1. The Ascension Mk2 will also use its own, much bigger, vehicle
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
stream is live! In 5 minutes @DKerman_KSA will come on to carry out the crew selection process. This will determine the initial order all 4 astronauts head up into space aboard either a Mk1 or Mk2. Tune in now - youtu.be/g_6LoHyDRuM
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we do not plan to take any questions or respond to comments during the live stream, although we haven't gone as far as to disable the chat if you would like to talk among yourselves
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Congratulations to Specialist Bob Kerman - the first kerbal selected to head up into space!! β¨ππ
The following crew rotation is:
Bill
Val
Jeb
You can review the selection process here: youtube.com/watch?v=g_6LoHβ¦
The following crew rotation is:
Bill
Val
Jeb
You can review the selection process here: youtube.com/watch?v=g_6LoHβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this exempts Bob from being the 1st to orbit Kerbin and there are plenty of 1sts still to come in our exploration of the Kerbol system so the rest of the crew remains just as excited
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Ascension Mk2 will require a reconfiguration of the current umbilical towers (top one stays put, becomes bottom while bottom one is built higher up) plus the addition of a new crew access tower since the Mk2 will be rolled out vertically from the VAB
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Mk1 will still be rolled out horizontally so the astronaut will board just prior to the rocket being raised vertical. The new launchpad configuration will still be able to support Progeny Mk7 launches as well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ascension program has been working on determining the upper-limits of the Mk2 and the results are surprising. It has the potential to send a 255kg payload direct into kerbolar orbit, possibly to Duna or Eve - that's the next thing they will be looking at with LVD
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
being able to eject from the system also means the Mk2 could reach Minmus and Mun. Whether the payload mass that could get there would be enough fuel to enter into orbit is unknown. Extremis team is being leveraged to help w/these calculations. Still, even fly-bys would be great!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bluedog Design Bureau won the contract for heavier-duty radial booster couplings for the Ascension Mk2 since the smaller ones used on the Progeny Mk6 Block II would have failed during ascent and also these have to do more than just hold the booster to the lifter
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with no launches until the Progeny Mk7-A towards the end of next month, work has begun out on the launch pad to erect the crew access tower and reconfigure the service towers to prepare to launch an Ascension Mk2 in July
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
you've seen the rocket, you've seen the service structures, you've seen the new boosters, now time to see it all together with the Mobile Launch Platform! This will be our first vehicle to move a rocket to the launch pad vertically from the VAB
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the MLP can support the rocket unfueled - it will be strutted to the platform while moving. Once at the launch pad the service towers will be attached, the struts removed, and the engine support collar will be installed to help hold the full weight when fueled
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
learn more details about what went down this past week, including extra information on the new Mobile Launch Platform, in our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9183 what are everyone's plans for the weekend?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
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/dβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today marks our 6th revolution around Kerbol since the founding of the Kerbal Space Agency! π₯ 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_β¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
construction wrapped up today at the launch pad for the new crew access tower and service arms. Thanks to a modular design the large pieces had already been assembled off-site and airshipped in for placement. We are now ready to support 5 different rockets on one pad!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
thanks to a generous donor, we now have our own MSV! It's an old hull, but will serve well as a recovery vessel after some retrofits to the stern to haul capsule aboard. It has been designated the MSV Aldeny & will be training to recover the first kerbed Ascension mission in July
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
#OTD in 2017 the bit.ly/ExtremisProgram was formed, with the over-ambitous goal of sending out three probes on Grand Tours of the Kerbol system. While we do have a fairly epic 2021 trip start planned for Eve-Jool-Plock, additional multi-flybys have been hard to find
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
currently the Extremis team has put aside for now the multiple Grand Tour ambitions but are keeping their extra-planetary focus by helping the Ascension team figure out how well their Mk2 rocket is capable of executing individual missions to Minmus, Mun, Eve and Duna
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/dβ¦
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
we gots all the details on what went down this week in our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9303 We hope everyone has a fun and relaxing weekend. Rocketry teams: rest up!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our 3rd new K2-X engine has arrived, completing the order we placed back in Feb. It is earmarked for the first Ascension Mk2 flight and will be static fired next month when our new test stand completes construction since its flight tank won't be here by then
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've added a new visual aid to the streaming telemetry that will notify you when data is outside expected values but within predetermined tolerance (yellow flashes) or outside expected values like WTF oh noes (red flashes). You can check it out here: kerbalspace.agency/Tracker/trackeβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Aldeny has arrived at Sheltered Rock, where Specialist Bill will undergo a full medical evaluation to assess his body's reaction to the brief space flight before returning to KSC this weekend. He maintains feeling no ill effects since the mission
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
now that MSV Aldeny is berthed in Sheltered Rock & doesn't have to travel from Umbarg to the recovery area off Ockr, w/o long delays requiring resupply we should have cheaper mission costs. This past mission ran up a bill slightly greater than the usual 6,200 funds MSV rental
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
CFO Mortimer has announced the Kerbin World Firsts organization released the bounty of 57,000 funds to our account in recognition of our accomplishment this past week of putting a kerbal into space. This is enough to get the Ascension Mk2 off the ground later this year!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Mobile Launch Platform we revealed back in May now has the funding to begin construction. Since the HAB has no current Genesis/C7 projects, it will host the build. The MLP is expected to be ready by late Sept, so an Ascension Mk2 launch will be no sooner than that
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have a new rocket component that needs to be checked out, and will undergo testing tomorrow. Okay who's been keeping track of things out there and can tell us what's being sent out to the pad? The parts were ordered back in April
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Viklun orbital stage that will make up part of the Ascension Mk2 is on its way out to the launch pad for mounting, where it will be static-fired prior to 4th sunset. This will be the 1st firing of the actual production engine as well as operation of the whole integrated stage
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
@StronkTenk_ The plan was to have one in orbit already but the Ascension Mk1 turned out to not be capable so we have to wait for the Mk2 so probably early 2020 assuming it can put a payload into orbit by the end of this year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
mounting was good, launch control now getting the onboard controller initialized and ready for tanking. Viklun has its own computer so once a payload is detached it can still be de-orbited or moved to a graveyard orbit, orienting via its own cold gas thrusters (no engine gimbal)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
tanking completed, onloading 2t of liquid propellants to power the vacuum engine. Because we are testing it in atmosphere performance will be reduced but that can be compensated for in post-analysis and also really for basic testing we just want to make sure it doesn't blow up
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
standing by for leak checks and pad closeouts, we are aiming for an ignition time of 22:00 UTC. First of two ignitions will be at full thrust to simulate the initial push into orbit, with throttle tests at 30% fuel remaining and cutoff at 10% fuel remaining
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π¨AAAHHWWWWOOOOOOOOOπ¨
5min warning horn sounding across KSC as ignition system goes hot. Pad is cleared, no Flight Termination System is enabled - TWR @ sea level is less than 1 so if engine vibrations compromise ground clamps for some reason the stage would just fall to the pad
5min warning horn sounding across KSC as ignition system goes hot. Pad is cleared, no Flight Termination System is enabled - TWR @ sea level is less than 1 so if engine vibrations compromise ground clamps for some reason the stage would just fall to the pad
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good engine start, burn will last over the next ~2min. The two unoccupied tanker trucks are carrying water that will be activated shortly to douse the pad & keep the surface from overheating from the continuous rocket exhaust. Vertical mount ensures proper fuel flow to engine
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
and we have cut-off as planned with 9.8% fuel remaining after a good burn of 1m37s! Controllers will hold while Ascension team takes a look at the data & if everything checks out we will perform an engine restart to burn through the remainder of propellants
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have a GO from the Ascension engineers to re-light the engine at 10% thrust, which is a test in itself since we've never restarted an engine before. If ignition is good, engine will throttle up to full and remain wide open until flame out. 15min to test start
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
second engine burn was successful! Viklun can be restarted twice, so another test on 8/2 will go for the third ignition after time is taken for data analysis and engine inspection while the stage remains out on the pad
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ascension team have given the GO for tomorrow's second restart/third firing of the Viklun orbital stage after finding no serious issues in the data from the test burns earlier this week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π¨AAAHHHHWWWOOOOOOOOOπ¨
Viklun stage has been refueled and brought to ignition readiness for its second restart/third firing attempt in 5 minutes. The engine will drain the tank dry, performing more throttle tests to collect additional data required based on previous testing
Viklun stage has been refueled and brought to ignition readiness for its second restart/third firing attempt in 5 minutes. The engine will drain the tank dry, performing more throttle tests to collect additional data required based on previous testing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
another successful engine startup and burn! The stage will be returned to the VAB next week for even more checks and by the end of the month we should be able to determine if we are ready to schedule the first Mk2 mission, once again attempting orbit π«
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are working hard towards our next rocket launches - check our Ops Summary to see what we did this week towards that end and get a preview of the next three Ascension missions: kerbed Mk1, unkerbed Mk1 and unkerbed Mk2 kerbalspace.agency/?p=9483
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our 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/dβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Ascension Mk2 is configured with 4 SRBs by default but costs could be saved by launching with less. All 4 provide important structural loading though while on the MLP, so in cases where fewer can be used, dummy boosters will be left behind on the pad at launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the main deck of the Mobile Launch Platform is welded together and laid bare in the HAB as the huge tread blocks start to arrive, upon which the main deck will be mounted over the next week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the unkerbed Mk1 & Mk2 missions will use the newer, lighter fins & ctrl surfaces. Kerbed Mk1 will stick to originals not just because they are well-tested but the same mass makes it easier for flight planners to stick to the same trajectory we wanted for the 1st kerbed mission
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
results from the Viklun test firings show it is likely to under-perform in flight, due to losses in efficiency while operating. This is not unexpected for our first vacuum engine design. Further modeling of Mk2 Mun/Minmus missions has been put on hold until we have flight data
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
last week's Viklun stage test also put the CX-4181 control system through its paces. It has two CPUs for redundancy and cross-check during ascent and orbital insertion, then allows the stage to perform maneuvers after payload separation
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
CFO Mortimer is looking into the potential for recovering the SRBs from the Ascension Mk2 since they will be let go at 2-3km and land close enough our range vessel could perhaps recover them for little extra cost. Core lifter though is not recoverable for less than a new one twitter.com/KevinHe8868322β¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
check out what went down at KSC this past week as we continue to work towards new missions for all programs: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9510 we wish everyone a relaxing weekend! Any body out there have space/science-related activities planned?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the K2-X engine for next month's Ascension Mk1 mission has had a successful static fire on the test stand today. Next month will be the first delivery of the engine order we placed back in May, which will be used for the Ascension Mk2 mission in Oct
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the engine tested today was originally set for the Mk2 but that was before we decided to throw in another unkerbed Mk1 mission before the Mk2 mission twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ascension team has mostly locked in the mission profiles for the next two flights and are now focusing on the Mk2 mission, which will aim to put a 2t payload into low-Kerbin orbit - basically the heavier a mass we can throw up the more power & longer life it will have up there
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
papers have been hitting science journals with results from the Mystery Goo atmospheric flights in 2018 and space flight early this year and now new orbital experiments are being designed that we hope to have the privilege to fly in early 2020 aboard the Ascension Mk2
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
scientists continue to remain fascinated by the ability of the Goo to resist space radiation, different from the radiation of its underground habitat, and also enter stasis when lacking atmosphere. Longer-term orbital studies are needed to fully understand it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
another week in the rear-view, catch up on all that went down in our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9541 We have more details on the new Progeny Mk7-A mission, which will help test new tech for future Mk2 missions. Have a great weekend, everyone!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
construction for the Mobile Launch Platform in the HAB continues on schedule. With the tread blocks in place, the main deck will continue to be built while the drive axles and internal transmissions are installed prior to the engines & treads themselves
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
order has been put in with NovaPunch for 3 more K2-X lifter engines for delivery at the start of 2020. Contract bidding has already begun for our next lifter engine, which should begin testing Q2 2020. Will likely just replace the K2-X, not used for an Ascension Mk3
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ascension Mk2 mission was running a fine line between test vs. success - we want to push the rocket to its limits but also want to see it succeed making orbit. Ultimately Ops Director @DKerman_KSA has lowered the payload mass from 2t to 0.5-1t for more comfortable error margins
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ascension Mk1 for next week has passed load checks and is being laid back horizontal for final close outs. Mk1 for Sept has its engine prepared and will be center-stage next week to begin its final integration while the Ascension Mk2 & Progeny Mk7-A prep begins in the wings
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
going into the weekend with a good report from the VAB saying the rocket is ready to go next week. Astronauts got in some good water training the past few days & will partake in a survival expedition this weekend. Catch up on what else went down via kerbalspace.agency/?p=9588
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerbin I plans are finalized! Our 1st orbital probe is based on future communication satellites that will be among the 1st commercial payloads for the Ascension Mk2. It has enough battery to last 18-20 hrs on orbit & can also hibernate if needed. Full res: flickr.com/gp/kerbal_spacβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the RTG is another test article like the one that will be flown on the Progeny Mk7-A to further check the ability of the casing to withstand re-entry and impact - possibly the first test if the Mk7-A mission fails again. We plan for the RTG to be flight certified by mid-2020
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this mission will also be the operational debut of the cold gas engine we spoke about earlier this year. It is a great choice for future long-term missions that only need to maintain their orbit as it is simple and thus very reliable twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
because we never developed the technology before being forced underground and after that there was no reason for anyone to pursue it. Second to last paragraph has more details: kerbalspace.agency/?p=4451 twitter.com/_FancyHat_/staβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Mobile Launch Platform construction continues on schedule in the HAB. One of the two massive engines is being placed today for installation next week, followed by the second the week after and the treads will be attached to the transmission blocks by mid-Sept as well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
leaving August behind and pushing forward into September! Check out all the exciting stuff that happened this past week in our Ops Summary and have yourself a pleasant weekend everyone! kerbalspace.agency/?p=9606
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the 1st K2-X engine ordered back in May has been delivered, one of three that will be completed by the end of the year. This one is earmarked for the 1st Ascension Mk2 mission & will be test-fired this week to ensure good operation prior to integration with its flight hardware
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
VAB is quite busy these days with this month's Ascension Mk1 center stage for final integration prep, next month's Ascension Mk2 is starting to get some attention and the Progeny Mk7-A for later this month is almost ready for staging. Guest appearance by the rocket sled
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Kongo River Research Station has its own 500km communications aerial for local transmissions. A ground/sea cable connecting it to Kravass is being proposed for next year, but until then any orbiting satellite that sends down data to the station can't get to us directly
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Engineer Simon has told the Ascension team to expect delays to the Mobile Launch Platform as they struggle with getting the engines installed. They still hope to finish by the end of the month but could possibly run into early October
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the newest K2-X engine was mounted to the test stand yesterday and today attempted a static fire test but failed to ignite. Engineers suspect it is just a relatively simple igniter issue and hope to have it fixed and ready to try again next week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
learn more details on what went on this past week in our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9624 Everyone have a relaxing weekend! We look forward as always to greeting all the visitors that will be stopping by - be sure to check out the new Ascension Mk1 static display!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we had a successful static fire of the K2-X engine today on the test stand after the ignition system was repaired. The engine will now head back to the VAB to be refurbished and readied for integration with its flight fuel tank late next week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the purchase of flight hardware for two more Ascension Mk1 rockets has been ordered. Whether one of them will be used to build a Mk2 depends on the success of the mission in October. We could possibly fly a second Mk2 in Dec before operations cease for the year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
πβ¨Happy Operational Birthday to us!β¨π KERZZAH!
today is the start of our 4th year in operation π₯ 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 π₯ 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
work on the Mobile Launch Platform has moved forward in the HAB, with the engines finally installed along with the treads that will carry it across the ground. Next up will be the command cab and the remainder of the main deck, which needs more rails, ground access and lighting
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after this past week's mission, the Ascension team leads had a two-hour meeting and brought their concerns to Operations Director @DKerman_KSA, who made the decision that we are going to bump the Mk2 flight to December & move Jeb's Mk1 up to late October
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
basic reason is better guidance comes with less fin angle, but more fin angle is needed to fly the planned orbital trajectory so Ascension will wait to get better data on Progenitor's steerable fins after this month's launch, then scale them up for the Mk2
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
learn more about today's decision to delay the Mk2 orbital attempt in our weekly Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9801 Have a great weekend everyone, and we look forward to this one especially at KSC. Anyone know why?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all launch readiness reviews have been submitted & approved by Operations Director @DKerman_KSA - we are π GO FOR LAUNCH π tomorrow. Pre-launch ops will commence at 12:15 UTC. Forecast has weather at 65% GO - depends largely on what a storm out at sea does
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h40m] Flight Director Lanalye has assembled her B team for their final mission brief. The Mk7-A has been modified from original spec to remove the chute and instead carry an additional payload within a new fairing shell that we plan to also use on Ascension rockets
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the payload is an RTG test article, which will be crashed into the mountains so it has less opportunity to slow down before impact. We have to ensure casing can survive an uncontrolled re-entry as designed. It contains the radio & internal batt power to be located afterwards
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ignition and LIFT OFF!! 3.6Gs of force pushes the rocket clear of the VAB's shadow as it tips over, clearing the towers and aiming downrange along a heading of 45.5Β°. 35s from now will see MECO-1 and stage separation followed by a coast phase up to 15km before MES-2
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
even without the recovery of the RTG casing, the mission still proved the Ospray engine capable of controlling the rocket via thrust vectoring and the guidance fins also gave engineers more data for the larger versions that will go on the Ascension Mk1 & Mk2
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all hail the week end! Rocketry crews will be enjoying a well-earned break next week before the lead up to the next launch in October. See what else has transpired and get more information via our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9834
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
something else the Progeny Mk7-A tested for Ascension Mk2 on its last flight was steering limits on the guidance fins. Until the Mk2 drops boosters, the fins can't actuate too far without hitting the decouplers! github.com/KSAMissionCtrlβ¦
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
the lift stage for the Mk2 will begin its conversion to a Mk1 this week, simply by removing the decouplers that are meant to hold the solid rocket motors the Mk2 needs to help boost it off the pad. This will be the lifter for Captain Jeb's flight later this month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
more good news for our future orbital missions, the RTG casing from last week's mission has been carefully inspected and does not show any more damage than expected from an impact at the speeds it endured, estimated to be at over 100m/s
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
still, this was much less than the level of tolerance that was planned to be demonstrated so we still need a good result from the Kerbin I impact from orbit to fully certify the RTG casing as safe to actually carry radioactive material and power future orbital satellites
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/dβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
weekend, ho! October is only just getting started and we already have plenty of things to talk in more depth about in our weekly Ops Summary, so check it out - kerbalspace.agency/?p=9885 everyone have a relaxing weekend & try to take some time to gaze up at the night sky
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
what's different in the production MLP vs the original design? A second control cab was added to the opposite side of the platform so it can be driven forwards and backwards without having to turn around. Which it *can* do, but driving straight is easier
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with the installation of the SRB support stands the Mobile Launch Platform is practically complete! There are still some minor tasks to wrap up but it could be powered up and moved out of the HAB as early as tomorrow, reports Lead Engineer Simon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's important to admit that we mostly *think* we know what we're doing when it comes to rocketry. We only *know* what we are doing when what we think we're doing actually *works* to within an acceptable margin of accuracy. We are mostly doing a lot of thinking these days
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although the Mobile Launch Platform was successfully fired up today, Lead Engineer Simon & his team were unable to get it rolling as planned. They have identified several problems that need to be fixed but remain confident they can have it out of the HAB this week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the unkerbed Mk1 that will be testing the new larger guidance fins next month will also carry another RTG test payload since the Mk7-A mission did not fully qualify the casing as planned. This will debut the enlarged 1.25m PLF (PayLoad Fairing) assembly as well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Engineer Simon was happy to report today that they finally got all the issues worked out and were able to drive the Mobile Launch Platform out of the HAB. Lots more shakedown work remains of course but it will eventually make its way over to the launch pad for fit tests
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Mobile Launch Platform is on its way out to the launch pad to park as if it were carrying a rocket to hook up to the service towers and ensure that platform height is good, proper spacing between treads and towers, etc. It actually moves pretty fast unladen @ ~11m/s
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the MLP is now parked in front of the VAB after a successful fit test at the launch pad. It will remain there until needed for the Mk2 in Dec, although additional driver training exercises will also be conducted between now & then. here's a look back at the 2-month assembly
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
another productive week behind us, we hope you all can say the same. Recap what went on in our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9932 Have a great & relaxing weekend, everyone!
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
R&D Head Wernher von Kerman has presented a new instrument suite to the Progenitor team, suitable for launch on a future Progeny Mk7 now that the payload section can point & hold orientation. Ascension is also interested in larger related instruments for an orbital payload
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the radome has been completed on the tall hills west of KSC and will be hooked up to the Tracking Station by tomorrow, which means we can return to KSC next week! Due to security, it's tough working remotely for engineering and R&D teams w/o full file access
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
unlike the Progeny Mk6 missions (not Mk7), which can be launched from the North Field, Ascension rockets require the launch pad and all future missions are on indefinite hold until we can fully assess the damage that was done to the pad and service structures
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
NovaPunch has informed us the final K2-X delivery for this year is ready for us to receive once KSC is operational again. This will be the engine that will fly the first Ascension Mk2 rocket and will be static fired next week on the vertical test stand
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we hear Jeb has been making overtures in an attempt to get to drive the Mobile Launch Platform. He once managed to finagle his way into the drivers seat of the Progeny carry vehicle but we doubt he'll ever get a chance to go behind the controls of the MLP - even w/o a rocket atop
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
everyone is eager to get back to work at KSC this week, starting today. A team has already been assembled by Lead Engineer Simon to begin assessing the damages done to the launchpad and service structures. They plan to submit a report by the end of the week
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/dβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the final K2-X static fire testing of 2019 went well today on the vertical test stand, proving that the engine will be capable of lifting the Ascension Mk2 up into (hopefully) orbit. It will be returned to the VAB next week for refurbishment
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a final report has been submitted by Lead Engineer Simon after review of the launch pad damage. It will take at least the remainder of the year - we need to make major repairs with minor replacements, but hopefully we can kick off 2020 with an Ascension launch!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we gave into some light speculation on the news about the Deuce aircraft and also have some more info on future Ascension plans now that the pad repair process can begin. That and more which transpired this week in our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=10044
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
pad resurfacing has gotten underway as cracks had formed from the blast concussion. If any rocket engine exhaust gases forced themselves under the surface, they would gouge the underlying soil and possibly blow out a portion of the pad, damaging the structures & rocket
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
final stacking of the Mk6-I took place earlier today in the VAB so checks could be carried out on load-bearing parts. All work on the Ascension side, seen in the background, has remained paused until at least next month when Progeny assembly winds down
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
early end to the week, everyone is ready to kick back for the weekend after the successful end to the first Kerbal Sounding Project launch campaign. 2 more next month! Also the ASA report was released today & we have all the details in our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=10060
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
OFU-009(A) has been captured! It's on the Ops Tracker designated bit.ly/Zosimus, ancient Kerbskrit for "viable" or "likely to survive" - which its discoverers bet on happening after its aerobrake. Unfortunately the namesake will not hold & it will eventually hit Kerbin
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
β¨KERZZAH!β¨ 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 π₯
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
several things to detail this past week - overall ops are running smooth. Rocket builds are on schedule & so is launch pad repair. R&D is quiet but that's also good in its own way. Anything you feel you might have missed can be found in our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=10089
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
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/dβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
earlier today at 17:06 UTC almost 600km southeast of ATN Central, Zosimus began its fourth pass through the atmosphere. Astronomers are again attempting to look for it with the ATN Central IR scope for early confirmation of whether it still survived
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch pad resurfacing was completed last week to allow work on the service structures to now begin. Further back from the pad, the crew tower has already seen repairs to the minor damage it suffered and we look forward to finally using it in 2020!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the final Progeny Mk6-I rocket of 2019 was stacked in the VAB today for checks on its load bearing elements, clearing the way for Ascension assembly to take "center stage" next year. In the back are the core stages for the Ascension Mk1 and Mk2 & the Viklun orbital stage
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN has officially removed bit.ly/Zosimus from its catalog. No sign of the asteroid has been found and it likely broke apart on its last pass through the atmosphere earlier this week. Data from its encounters with our atmosphere will help improve aerobrake models
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon program was unable to secure any nearby missions & is packing it up for the year. Kongo high-alt crew are happy to finally be heading home. Year in review shows how we are still sticking mainly to our hemisphere, but satellites in 2020 could change that
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VAB is getting everything organized to pick up with Ascension assembly next year, launch pad repairs are on schedule to wrap up next week, Launch Control is prepping for system upgrades over the operations break... we're almost ready to bid farewell to 2019!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket launches were up from last year, which only had 11, and we put 2 kerbals into space! That lineup could increase to as many as 6+ rockets by the end of next year with continued development of the Progeny Mk7 along with debut of the Ascension Mk2 & Mk3
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
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
bye bye 2019! KSA operations for the year have concluded. We will continue to note significant past events on weekends, ATN weekly updates & asteroid bulletins, or any other significant events. Regular ops will resume 1/6/202οΈβ£0οΈβ£! Final ops summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=10213
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
welcome to 2020!! ππ₯ 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
an early decision that was nearly unanimous was to retask the Extremis program to include *all* missions sent to other bodies, not just the original fly-by attempts currently being planned. This could make it relevant as early as this year with a Mun/Minmus mission
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/dβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Engineer Simon reports work in the VAB is ramping up well coming back from the break, with final checks being performed on the next Ascension Mk1 payload before it is encapsulated in the first set of 1.25m payload fairings set to be flown hopefully later this month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
behind the payload workers are busy getting the old static fins off the future Mk2 tank to be replaced with actuating fins, which will also be tested on the next Mk1, which is off-image to the right at "center stage" for final tank/engine/fin integration checks
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a new photo has been captured of the KSC to update our online banner images - also we made another significant upgrade after the completion of pad repairs over the break. Look closely in front of the Support Village for the engine test stands & the VAB for the MLP
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
up until now the crew service tower has also acted as a lightning rod but the Ascension Mk2 can rise taller so rods have been installed around the pad to protect it from any hazardous weather. Yes, they are also sunk several meters into the ground & will stop an aircraft
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
Lead Engineer Simon reports the launch pad is ready for action, Mk1 final integration is proceeding well in the VAB so we have gone and set our first launch date for 2020! Get ready for the Ascension Mk1 to blast off next week, 1/21 @ 18:37 UTC π! ops.kerbalspace.agency/?vessel=ascensβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're starting to pick up speed again, getting set for our first rocket launch of 2020 next week. Make sure you didn't miss anything else that was announced & learn more about what happened this past week by checking our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=10289
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
in the past we've used "scrub" and "delay" a bit interchangeably to describe the withholding of a planned launch. Moving forward they will have specific uses. "Scrub" will define a launch in process that was halted during countdown. "Delay" will occur before countdown starts
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Flight Director Lanalye has been drilling her A team hard since the start of the month to get back to used to working with the Ascension after two months of Progenitor operations. The B team has already been working since last month to prep for operations with the Progeny Mk7-B
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
engine start good, launch thrust nominal - we have LIFT OFF!! The 11th Ascension Mk1 begins its ascent to pave the way to orbit for the Ascension Mk2. Throttle program will kick in once it clears the tower and begins to increase its pitch over downrange
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MECO @ 45km along w/ separation of the payload fairings. Rocket managed to orient and hold prograde even as the atmosphere continues to rapidly thin. Apokee was just over 80km at MECO but will degrade ever so slightly as rocket coasts out of atmo & still encounters drag
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ascension Mk2 will continue its ascent burn with the 2nd stage engine after 45km and aim for an apokee of ~100km for orbital insertion
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
airship is on its way back to Sheltered Rock after locating and recovering the RTG casing - β¨π KERZZAH!! πβ¨ we should hear by next month how it endured its ballistic return from space. Perhaps sooner we'll also get a full report on the performance of this flight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
chances are tho the final report for this flight won't be out until early Feb since not only does a review need to be made of the Mk1's general performance & comparison to LVD planning but also as both would apply to the potential follow-up flight of the Mk2
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Engineer Simon is having his teams perform yet another full and extensive check of the launch pad and ground service equipment now that it's all been actually used to make double sure the repairs are holding before any missions in Feb are approved for flight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here's a look at the rough ride the rocket endured passing the transonic regime (+1 Mach), which lasted to some degree all the way through to MECO. This "roll shake" has been experienced to various extents in past flights and is still something we are trying to understand
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
great to get a space mission off the ground this month! A bit of Mk1 preliminary analysis along with additional details for other major events this past week await your attention in our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=10336 have a relaxing weekend, everyone
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Ascension Mk2 is center stage in the VAB for final assembly of the lift stage, which will start strapping on boosters and final checkouts of the Kerbin I probe before fairing encapsulation. The Viklun stage has been tested, ready & waiting for months now!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've received the 1st of the three K2-X engines ordered back in August 2019 which will be test fired next week and if all is well be set aside for use with Cpt Jeb's mission in early March. The following two engines will arrive in February and March
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new fuel tanks & other parts for 3 add'l Ascension Mk1 missions will be ordered over next few months to cover the flights of Jeb & Bob as well as an unkerbed test flight. This will use up all remaining lift engines by April & unsure at this time if the new engine will be ready
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are also keeping open the possibility that the 3rd K2-X engine would be used for a second orbital Mk2 flight, although such a mission would be under planning long enough that a new order of K2-X or the new lifter engine would likely be ready by then
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the lightning towers of the launch pad seem to prop up a gibbous Mun over the service structures. Empty once again, hopefully the next rocket to be received by the pad will be the Ascension Mk2 atop the Mobile Launch Platform!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here is a new render of the Mk2 with the payload fairings enclosing Kerbin I at the top (instead of the Mk1 capsule) along with the technical specifications of the rocket that we are using to plot its ascent to orbit in Launch Vehicle Designer from bit.ly/KSP_TOT
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch pad remains in good repair, reports the team assigned by Lead Engineer Simon, who has just signed off on the review. This is great news and means no further delays stand in the way of the next launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
yes, we feel the pressure waiting for the Mk1 flight report to be released but you can't rush these things. Hopefully next week we will know if the Mk2 mission is approved! Until then, read more about what happened this past week in our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=10366
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
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/dβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the development of the new lifter engine has been confirmed to be behind schedule (no other details have yet been released) so to fill the gap we have placed the order for 3 more K2-X engines that will start to arrive in July
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
careful analysis has revealed the Mk1 lifter fins are indeed capable of flying the rocket on an orbital trajectory. You can read for yourself or just take our word for it: kerbalspace.agency/?p=10380 Regardless - Ascension Mk2 launch date coming soon!!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Flight Director Lanalye is excited to soon put into action the mission operations control team! They have been training for months now and Kerbin I will be the first ongoing mission after launch. Tho it will only last a few days, still good to finally get MOC team on console
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
eventually we will have satellites in orbit for years at a time, which will require operations by separate teams. Until now the launch control team also handled mission control since the missions don't overlap the next launch. Moving forward the teams will become more specialized
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
technicians do some final checks before the VAB empties for the weekend. Boosters are on, fin installation will continue through next week, payload is checked out & encapsulated. In the back is the fuel tank that was ordered late last month for Jeb's mission
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ascension program planners are still working the updated drag and flight dynamics results from the Mk1 flight into the Mk2 ascent trajectory to make sure we still end up in an orbit so expect a launch date next week. What about this week? Catch up: kerbalspace.agency/?p=10393
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket assembly is proceeding on schedule, mission planning has been reviewed & approved - launch date for our 3rd orbital attempt has been set! Get ready to witness history on 2/20 with lift off set for 14:33 UTC π! Full details: ops.kerbalspace.agency/?vessel=ascensβ¦ #KSPloring @KerbalSpaceP
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this is our 3rd attempt because the Ascension Mk1 was actually designed with orbit in mind but failed to have the control authority or delta-v to make even a highly-eccentric decaying orbit after 2 attempts in mid 2018. More details: kerbalspace.agency/?p=8387
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all the guidance fins have been mounted and the lifter is vertical. One segment of the interstage shroud is being installed to support the Viklun stage at mounting later this week while allowing the engine to be secured to the base. Progeny Mk7-B parts have arrived as well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Mobile Launch Platform was moved today - VAB doors were opened to allow the MLP to position itself and prepare to receive the lift stage, which will be strutted down after it is lowered onto the booster plates. The Viklun orbital stage and payload will be stacked tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
tickets for the launch have sold out and there will be NO general admission for the non-ticketed areas of KSC. We apologize for the inconvenience but have setup general-admission viewing areas at the Support Village. We promise the views are just as good!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today the rocket was fully stacked - here is the orbital stage being lowered onto the interstage support shroud. It was then secured to the lifter and the other shroud half was installed. The payload topped it off & the rest of the day is removing worker access scaffolding
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
everything is continuing on schedule for roll out of the Ascension Mk2 to occur at the start of next week ahead of launch. Get hype!! Also get information on what else went down this past week via our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=10404
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're keeping this mission directly under the Ascension program since it will not be operating long on its own. Future missions that have goals beyond being a test object will come with more unique patches
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
3-4 days depending on how things progress. There is enough power to hibernate for 5 days if needed. We'll want it up there as long as possible to do as much as it can twitter.com/Otherdude4566/β¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Presider's flotilla has arrived and moored outside the Support Village. As with his visit last year, we were unable to announce his attendance ahead of time and his presence is why we are unable to have general admission at KSC. We hope he gets to enjoy a launch this time!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
last year Presider Theonard was visiting to watch Specialist Bob become the first kerbal in space, but unfortunately the Monolith had other plans and his busy schedule meant he could not stay for the second attempt with Spc Bill. Full mission report: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9395
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
working through the weekend, VAB crews have completed an exhaustive checklist to make sure the Ascension Mk2 is fully assembled and ready for roll out tomorrow. With so much riding on this rocket, Lead Engineer Simon says he can't shake that phantom feeling "what did we forget?"
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mobile Launch Platform is rolling! Exiting the VAB it will slowly make its way 655m to the launch pad, traveling no faster than 3m/s - which is actually 2x quicker than the Mk1 carry vehicle thanks to its extra power & wider base for better stability at "high speed"
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
service tower hookups are completed, for the first time the entirety of the GSE is in use. Lower two booms provide fuel, walkway itself is not used but the resource connectors below carry power to the Viklun & Kerbin I CPU cores. Struts will be removed after engine clamp install
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
because this is the first time we've used all 3 GSE towers, rocket has been rolled out well in advance of launch to allow us to troubleshoot any issues, as well as run full system checks on the Viklun orbital stage and Kerbin I probe through Launch/Mission Control
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
upcoming mission will be the 1st to make use of all operational bit.ly/GrndStns & the past 2wks have been spent ensuring all dishes are calibrated & relays are in working order. Only DSN North/South are not shown as they don't go into service until later this year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
farthest to the left is the Kongo River Research Station 500km antenna, the only one w/o ground link to KSC. So we cannot relay commands through there but it can still receive & store telemetry data in case anything happens over that region before Kravass can reacquire signal
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Presider got a tour of the KSC campus today to check out all the new stuff since his last visit. He was especially pleased to witness the SRB static fire and he stood so close to the Ascension Mk2 his neck got sore staring up at it. He's excited for the launch!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Flight Director Lanalye & Lead Engineer Simon are both saying "so far so good" in regards to pad checkouts of the rocket systems and ground systems. Their final reports will be submitted tomorrow after WDR for launch readiness review. hype video! π @KerbalSpaceP #KSPloring
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
sea cable has begun to be laid to the west while ground cable has started to dig in to the east, looking to link up fiber between the Kongo & Kravass. Arekibo is almost equidistant but with the exiled kerbs on that landmass, decision was the least amount of land cable the better
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket has been topped off, both ascent stages, with 9t of liquid propellants. These can still be carried by a single one of our large tanker trucks. After wet dress rehearsal rocket will stay fueled to allow for a condensed countdown early tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerbin I has completed checkouts, is now powered down; main fuel valves closed & all electrical/comm systems switched off. Crossfeed valves will remain open to allow use of its RCS ports during ascent after PLF separation. It will be re-activated prior to orbital deployment
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the probe's RCS thrusters are laid out so that while the rocket is powered by the Viklun engine, which has no gimbal, the pitch control can use up to 5 thrusters to keep the rocket on course. In theory. This is an untested mission aspect & why we have a large error margin in fuel
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all launch readiness reports have been reviewed & approved by Ops Dir @DKerman_KSA. We are πGO FOR LAUNCH!π Weather forecast for tomorrow is 65% favorable, which is on the low end but still possible. Launch prep Go/No Go will be made @ 10:03 UTC tomorrow. Who plans to watch?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we just compiled the initial tweet collection for the Ascension Mk2 Flight 1 mission timeline and... woah. We've just thought about the fact that this rocket has been under development & waiting to launch since it was first announced as the Mk1 Block II back on March of 2018!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
even if you consider the time since it was re-designed and re-dubbed the Mk2, we're still talking about back in April of 2019. It's been a long road but it always ends at the launch pad π
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h30m] weather balloon released earlier shows upper-level conditions are more disturbed than we'd like but not enough to call off launch attempt. Surface forecast has also improved to 80% so we will proceed with prelaunch - expect updates at these major milestones
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h50m] excitement is aiding everyone in getting up early to be present for final mission briefing by Flight Director Lanalye, although it almost had to be pushed back due to overcrowding at the koffee machines. Mess hall stepped up tho & all controllers are fueling up
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here is the ascent profile & mission overview. Times are not given for events beyond SECO-1 because that all depends upon how the ascent goes. If orbital insertion is as planned then the mission will progress as shown. If not - PANIC!
No not really, there will just be a new plan
No not really, there will just be a new plan
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h15m] briefing broke up with hand shakes and quick hugs, lots of "have a safe launch!" as the ground crew departed for the pad & controllers went to their stations. Consoles will serve double duty with launch/mission controllers taking turns as needed during the orbital phase
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
preflight is underway as launch controllers begin to wake up the Viklun flight computer, which will guide the rocket up to orbit. You can check out the flight code and some minor changes to the boot script to support multiple ship CPUs here at bit.ly/AFCS_ChangeLog
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Viklun computer core is the first to have dual CPUs to cross-check each other for errors or take over from the other if one completely fails. This is all transparent to the AFCS though, the changes for multiple CPUs refers to discrete cores: in this case ascent & payload
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
buses have begun running from the Support Village to deliver ticketed visitors to the viewing areas. Loading is outside the parking garage & as advised during ticket purchase an extra security check will be in place before entering the KSC campus. Buses stop at L-1hr!!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-5)
2/20
#2π 08:47:45 !!π!!
#3π12:38:14 π 14:48:36
#4π18:39:05 π 20:49:27
2/21
#1π00:39:56 π 02:50:18
#2π06:40:47
@ KSC (UTC-5)
2/20
#2π 08:47:45 !!π!!
#3π12:38:14 π 14:48:36
#4π18:39:05 π 20:49:27
2/21
#1π00:39:56 π 02:50:18
#2π06:40:47
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h30m] no issues reported, preflight proceeding smoothly into checks of the K2-X, Viklun and SRB-XL engines that will power the flight to space. For safety all crews are evacuating the pad area - rocket+MLP is too big to even allow a quick-response team in the bunker anymore
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h45m] preflight is complete and rocket is healthy, ready to go! Ground crews moving back in to secure the MLP and perform final pad checks & prep. Range Safety Officer continues to assess airspace and waters around KSC & prepares to close down the launch corridor
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h35m] high-altitude weather balloon has started its ascent to 25km so that by L-5min polls the kerbs at the weather desk (now led by KWS meteorologist Katgan) have a better idea if conditions in the upper atmosphere have improved or not since the last check earlier today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h] all buses have ceased to prepare for the Presider to be transported over to KSC while FD Lanalye works her teams through a mission rehearsal to ensure all consoles are properly setup and all controllers know their roles. Ground crew is conducting final pad evacuation
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] Kat says we are GO for final countdown procedures! Surface weather has continued to improve, thankfully in this case forecasts are still not that great. Presider is on his way to Mission Control & all consoles are being reset for launch, switching over to the live rocket
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Presider has arrived. His first question was where the big red LAUNCH button was so he could be the one to push it. FD Lanalye had to explain that's not quite how it works, and he was visibly disappointed but she did say he could call out the final 10s countdown so he's happy now
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] RSO has confirmed pad/waters/airspace are clear, range is now closed & rocket is ARMED. Flight Termination System is ACTIVE. Visitors at KSC must remain in their designated areas. Security is doing a final sweep outside to ensure everyone has hearing protection
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-13m] small tanker truck left hooked up to the service towers has been remotely commanded to begin onload of nitrogen gas for tank pressurization. This ensures any tank rupture and resulting explosion poses no harm to ground crew
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the astronauts, recently woken up since they were all training all day yesterday, have crowded into Mission Control to say hello to the Presider and watch as the final minutes tick down. Controllers are glued to their monitors, checking readouts in prep for final general polls
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
HOLD - we are NO GO from the weather desk, upper-level winds have not died down enough to meet our tight constraints but they are trending downwards since last measurement. Decision is to wait it out & try again, aiming for the end of the daylight launch window @ 16:45 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
upper-level conditions are more important than usual for this launch because our interstage is the largest yet and its size makes it more vulnerable to wind shear that could literally knock the rocket in two. We are looking to stay well below estimated tolerances
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket is SAFED, FTS is deactivated and countdown has rolled back to L-30m with new L-0 time uploaded to the rocket. Controllers will maintain vigilance while the Presider sets up a temp office in our Admin building and the astronauts, bummed, head out for the day's training
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
standby weather balloon has been released - everyone think calming thoughts! Buses have also started running again in case anyone with a viewing ticket was unfortunate enough to miss the deadline in getting to KSC from the Support Village. KSC mess hall remains closed to visitors
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
mission planners have recomputed the ascent with the new launch time & estimated air temps to confirm there is no need for any changes to the current mission plan. If we were actually targeting a specific orbit things would have been a bit more complicated
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] countdown has resumed with a GO from the weather desk confirming surface conditions remain within limits. Hopefully things higher up are better now but the downwards trend was just an observation not a prediction and could have reversed or stalled. If so, day is scrubbed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] RSO has closed the range, rocket is ARMED, FTS ACTIVE. Although more planes than normal are in the area (word got around of how easy the rocket will be to see even from afar thx to SRBs) all are sticking to registered flight plans & remain outside the 20km exclusion zone
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Presider is back in Mission Control still hoping to perform the final launch count. Astronauts only blocked out the initial launch attempt from their busy schedule so they will have to try and catch the next one. All eyes are on the kerbs at the weather desk now...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] Final polls - Range: GO; Flight: GO; Tracking: GO; Payload: GO! WX: GO! Ops Director @DKerman_KSA: Launch permission granted! πGO ASCENSIONπ FTS power to internal, SRB boltbangs armed, service towers unlocked for retraction, AFCS standing by for terminal count procedures
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4m] tank pressurization has now begun to add rigidity to the rocket's structure for ascent and more immediately to stand upright on the MLP once the service towers pull away. Winds are out of the west but gust warning system is showing no mountain wave activity
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
steering constraints for this flight are not very tight since we are not targeting a specific orbit and have enough fuel to salvage a poor ascent. But if you do happen to see any flashing yellow or red telemetry values these are the limit thresholds that are being exceeded
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-2m] terminal count! Service towers are retracting to leave Ascension on battery power, now switching over to RF comms and monitoring EC load. Viklun flight computers are synchronizing. AFCS now has full control of the launch sequence tho manual hold possible up to L-0
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-1m] nothing left but seconds on the clock! Tune in for live ascent telemetry through OIB: ops.kerbalspace.agency/?vessel=ascens⦠at T-30s we should get the "Go Ascension!", "Go Kerbin I!" calls & live data will load shortly after. Final event sequence:
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
main engine ignition was good & with a massive WHOMP the 4 SRBs lit at L-0 to shove the rocket off the MLP almost all by themselves w/over 300kN of thrust. Main engine will throttle up as SRB thrust tapers off, SRBs will detach @ L+32s & main engine will throttle to full
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
nominal attitude on launch but main engine did not throttle properly during SRB boost resulting in a low TWR during initial ascent. Clean SRB sep & good throttle up however. Guidance fins can now actuate further if needed with the SRB decouplers out of the way. Mk2 is supersonic!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
minor roll-shake has developed - so much for hoping the longer Mk2 would be immune. Guidance remains on course however along with pitch. Coming up now on MECO, PLF drop, staging, SES-1 all happening within <1min. Heat build up seen here will quickly dissipate after PLF sep & MECO
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π¨ATTITUDE ALERT!! Gasps & moans filled Mission Control as we watched the Viklun stage slowly tumble almost completely around shortly after SES-1. Thankfully RCS was able to stabilize pointing nearly straight up & 100km target apokee was achieved for SECO-1 with minimal fuel loss
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
RT @DKerman_KSA: AAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!
I'm allowed to scream. I'm just sitting here at my operations overview console watching the *actual* controllers (outwardly) calmly handling the situation. Rocket is still burning for 100km apokee, no matter what
I'm allowed to scream. I'm just sitting here at my operations overview console watching the *actual* controllers (outwardly) calmly handling the situation. Rocket is still burning for 100km apokee, no matter what
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
mad scramble still underway! We've coasted up to space with only 1min until apokee, too soon to take the steps we need to properly plan the orbital insertion burn. Rocket is suffering gimbal lock & not re-orienting prograde. Controllers are desperately sending steering commands
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've managed to get the rocket pointing prograde but are already thru apokee. With no time for trajectory analysis controllers are just rushing to carefully modify the orbital burn script to begin immediately on upload & we will just have to hope there is enough fuel remaining!!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
OIB underway, almost perikee positive! Everyone in Mission Control, Presider included, are staring up at the monitors pumping their arms & screaming "GO! GO! GO! GO!" We can do nothing else. There is only about 30s of powered flight remaining.
Can we make it?
CAN WE MAKE IT???
Can we make it?
CAN WE MAKE IT???
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a mixture of screams & cheers is still ringing here as we come up just. two. kilometers. short! But while this isn't a stable orbit, it is one that will give us plenty of time to sort through our options, and problems. First problem - 1.5Mm comms range with a 3.9Mm apokee...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
RT @DKerman_KSA: I'm about to almost pass out here. Holy kraken. Mad props to the controllers, and I will be the first one to admit that even though we knew the Viklun stage might lose attitude control, the contingencies we had in place were barely adequate. Lessons learned harshly...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket is through its first aerobrake pass & we have uploaded the telemetry data to the Ops Tracker so you can continue to follow its position in real time. You can use the mouse cursor to find out where it will be at any point along its trajectory ops.kerbalspace.agency/?vessel=ascensβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
trajectory analysis has shown we'll lose signal in just over 11 minutes & not regain it for a little over 3hrs. This will completely drain the batteries supplying power to the Vilkun stage and its 1.5Mm antenna, which means we will not regain contact & lose the payload
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after deliberation, to salvage the mission we have begun Kerbin I activation. This will allow its batteries to power the Viklun stage. Viklun is designed not to do this until it runs out of its own juice. Kerbin I's probe core & 500km antenna will remain off to preserve power
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we completed re-configuring the rocket and prior to LOS @ 17:10:51 UTC we used the last 0.4kg of cold gas in the Viklun tanks to spin up the spacecraft for thermal control. We expect to regain signal @ ~20:25 UTC. Until then, post-launch ops & lots of mission operations meetings!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
while we have limited knowledge as to the extent of the outer radiation belt, by now the Viklun stage is likely thru 1st of 2 passes with increased radiation. The core itself is not radiation-hardened to save mass but the dual-CPU cross-check at least gives it better tolerance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have a better idea of the inner-belt's extent and thankfully the trajectory travels over top of it on the way to apokee & below it on the way to perikee. Even better the apokee is pointing towards the sun, meaning it travels thru the compressed, thinner part of the outer belt
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
post-launch ops wrapping up altho extended cleanup will be needed a few dozen meters north of the runway almost even w/HAB where one SRB impacted. The rest fell harmlessly downrange as planned. The boosters made for a great visual launch even when viewed from the Support Village
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
by now the Viklun stage with its attached payload will have passed through 3,887km apokee, which comes close to but does not break the record set back in July last year by the Progeny Mk6 Block II when it climbed to 4,349.35km ops.kerbalspace.agency/?vessel=progenβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Ascension Mk2 has set records however! It is now the heaviest rocket ever launched (minus payload) at 17.5t and it is also the tallest rocket ever launched, standing 16m from engine bell to PLF tip. For more records, check out this page on our site kerbalspace.agency/?page_id=72
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
and now a new record set by the Ascension Mk2: longest mission distance! Trajectory analysis shows it has just surpassed the 9,257.860km record, also from last year's Mk6-II. the Mk2 now has its name on the record, with a + to signify the distance is still increasing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mission Control is fully staffed again as we await AOS (bit.ly/KSATerminology) in a few minutes. The Viklun core cannot hibernate & was operational during both passes through the outer radiation belt. We can only hope this has not caused any serious damage
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
acquisition of signal almost right on schedule! Collective sigh of relief passes through controllers. Health checks are underway to ensure no serious damage has been done and the Viklun core can perform the final task of deploying the Kerbin I satellite on this comm pass
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are GO for satellite deployment! Command will be sent this minute to release Kerbin I from the payload truss, which will give it enough of a push that the two craft will separate without any need for additional thrust. Probe will check in 10s later to let us know all is well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
success! With <2min residual charge in Viklun to relay signal we were contacted by the probe, sent the necessary commands & switched off the antenna since its 500km range wouldn't reach us now once Viklun lost power for good. It will reactivate after perikee pass, AOS in ~15min
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Viklun stage is now completely defunct and will gradually return to Kerbin. Ironically we have unintentionally achieved the goal we had originally intended to achieve on two previous occasions with the Ascension Mk1 of placing a spacecraft into a decaying orbit. Go figure
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
without power to send telemetry and being too small to track easily the Ascension Mk2 mission distance record accounting was halted when it ran out of power after Kerbin I deployment. It will eventually be surpassed by Kerbin I but currently retains the record of 13,945.799km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
for the same reason, it no longer calculates a trajectory on the Ops Tracker nor shows up in the 3D orbital view. If we manage to get an idea of where its at through visual observation or radar returns from Arekibo we will again display its known trajectory
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
you can always replay yesterday's launch in the Ops Tracker by visiting this link (ops.kerbalspace.agency/?vessel=ascensβ¦) but if you want to do any work with the actual telemetry data it is now available as well: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
since we knew there would be no recovery of engineering camera footage, no video was taken just rapid still shots (4fps) that could be beamed down during ascent. Here is the flipover performed by the Viklun stage that had @DKerman_KSA going "No..no..nooo...nononoNONONONOOOOOOOO!"
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this week's Ops Summary is required reading if you want to keep in the know about Kerbin I! Mission overview so far, new maneuver plans, what went wrong with the first attempt & how the mission will (hopefully!) progress over the weekend: kerbalspace.agency/?p=10478
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
β¨π KERZZAH!! πβ¨ radio doppler increasing, onboard instruments detected no atmosphere & signal delay measurements confirm altitude! FD Lanalye announced:
π« WE ARE IN ORBIT!! π«
Mission Control has erupted in cheers & applause! Hugs & handshakes! High fours all around! πΎπ₯
π« WE ARE IN ORBIT!! π«
Mission Control has erupted in cheers & applause! Hugs & handshakes! High fours all around! πΎπ₯
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we felt we earned ourselves a photo, so controllers quick pointed one of the cameras towards the horizon and by the time it was in position we managed to just capture the sun setting. We choose to see it as the end of a long journey w/ a new dawn in space exploration now coming!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the 4 SRBs that helped power the Mk2 into space were released w/ just enough burn left to send them flying from the rocket, since the main engine was below them. Due to an early flight throttle issue, rocket wasn't traveling as fast as planned but thankfully this was not an issue
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
1 of the 8 photos taken Thurs actually had a good look at Kerbin with Mun in the frame too. It has been cleaned up as best as possible but as expected the conditions were not great for the cameras to capture a good quality image. Still, our farthest look at Kerbin yet from 3.8Mm
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
not sure if anyone actually noticed, but the cameras displayed in the craft image do not match the one displayed in the blueprint. Due to budget issues we used surplus cheaper cameras we had already purchased. They are not even really designed for space flight!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
and one year later - problem solved! Well, partly solved. Ascension team will decide what needs to be done with the attitude control capabilities of the Viklun upper stage as they work through their ongoing launch analysis twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
tracking the Viklun stage continues to be a problem. Despite Pe over the terminator it is still too small and not very reflective, nor has it passed directly enough over Arekibo to radar it - at least, attempts based on timings from early drag estimates have had no returns
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the scientists at Arekibo have been very generous in letting us try multiple attempts to ping the dead stage but cannot accommodate any more requests without interrupting their own research, so we are left with attempting to estimate when it will finally return to Kerbin
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
since then however we've gathered more aerobrake data from Kerbin I and found a correlation. The average drag coefficient from all aerobrakes where it was tumbling (1.130) nearly equals that of the probe's average surface area (1.134). So we have gone & applied the same to Viklun
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our best guess therefore is that the spent stage will return to Kerbin around 14:00 UTC on the 27th. This could still be off by as much as a day or more but at least any return is guaranteed to occur at night time which will make spotting it more likely
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today our founder and Operations Director @DKerman_KSA accepted official recognition by the Kerbin World First organization for the achievement of placing a payload into stable orbit around Kerbin. CFO Mortimer practically ran off with the award check of 64,000 funds
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MLP was finally moved back to the VAB today after extensive inspections were carried out to make sure it suffered the launch alright as designed. Lead Engineer Simon has reported it held up well with only minor issues that need to be looked at before its next use
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
just under a minute ago FD Lanalye made the final call "Kerbin I telemetry signal has been lost" & sad but satisfied claps filled the room. We hit our re-entry window almost right-on, coming in w/ a Pe of 29.044km (29.151km planned) w/ 6.88% of power & 6.70% cold gas remaining
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here's a look at the full 4d4h7m18s trajectory of Kerbin I, broken up into the five main mission phases. It aerobraked 13 times through Kerbin's upper atmosphere and then (stably) orbited 20 times before falling back, traveling a record total distance of 396,096.3495km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
slight difference in how the mission is timed vs. distance traveled is measured. Mission time is from the second probe is deployed to when we lose contact on re-entry. Distance is from the second it switched on & began sending telemetry, to when it hit the top of the atmosphere
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all surface locations as well as above caverns have installed full-sky cameras that will be watching each night cycle for any sign of the Viklun stage re-entering over the next 3 days. We expect it to come down around mid-day (local time) on the 27th but could be off by 1 or 2 days
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no reports so far of any night time fireballs. The cameras are not in place simply for photographic evidence - they are taking video because we need to see the fireball's track in order to be able to confirm that it is indeed the Viklun stage and not just a chance meteor
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ππvideo of the initial launch is now up, giving you an idea of just how fast this rocket moved despite its size - those 4 SRBs put out enough thrust for 1.7 TWR! The initial acceleration was important in allowing the main engine to carry on after SRB sep youtube.com/watch?v=Xrac3Zβ¦
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
a historic month draws to a close. Recap the Kerbin I mission, learn more about our upcoming missions and what else transpired this past week over at the Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=10499
Also, now all the parties
ππππ
Also, now all the parties
ππππ
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
still no word from any surface installations on Viklun's return. Some fireballs spotted but none tracked from the proper orbital plane. Well shucks, we were really hoping for our prediction to be accurate w/in a day. Still possible it came down between Arekibo/DSN Central though
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
still no report of bolides that could have matched the Viklun stage's orbital plane. Cameras will remain in place just for the sake of general observation but at this point we are pretty confident it fell either in the ocean or between DSN Central & Arekibo (rough approximation)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
while it's disappointing that we can't determine how far off we were in our prediction, ultimately the stage was always fated to crash back to Kerbin even originally & we are just glad it didn't come down atop any of the few surface installations along its path - including us!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
flight overview and analysis has been released for the Ascension Mk2 orbital mission - kerbalspace.agency/?p=10779 we look forward to flying the second Mk2 towards the end of Q2 2020, carrying a technology demonstrator for future comm sats
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here's the first time we've ever seen Mun's shadow from space! First photo taken ~140km & second at apokee over Sheltered Rock @ 294km. Note the land seen to the right of img1 extends into the shadow & contains KSC but it gets too dark to see it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we had two opportunities during the Kerbin I mission to also capture Mun's shadow but it wasn't in the proper planned orbit right after launch that would have given it visibility and then also just missed it during a perikee pass a few days later on 2/23 thx to missed maneuver
