Once again pushing things to the limit the new Ascension Mk3 fails to achieve an optimal ascent, suffering a similar failure to the first Mk2 however this time the payload was at least able to be recovered via controlled abort
As the first mission of a new vehicle, this dispatch includes all the design and development leading up to launch. Until Kerbin III has its own mission dispatch, this also includes the design and development of the probe that was payload for this mission. To skip to the launch, click here.
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
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
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
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
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
the existing 0.625m SRB by Umbra Space Industries has been incorporated into the first dual-segment SRB and will be worked into the design of the Progeny Mk7-B for launch in early 2020. Same surface area, so same thrust, but slightly better nozzle design for higher ISP
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we teased some info about the Ascension Mk3 in one of last month's Ops Summaries. The full design spec is:
ā¢ 1.25m TVC vacuum engine
ā¢ More powerful 1.25m lifter engine
ā¢ Actuating guidance fins
ā¢ Multi-segment (reusable?) SRBs
Current flight target mid-2020
ā¢ 1.25m TVC vacuum engine
ā¢ More powerful 1.25m lifter engine
ā¢ Actuating guidance fins
ā¢ Multi-segment (reusable?) SRBs
Current flight target mid-2020
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we hope all staff got a chance to recharge over the "vacation" because we are hitting the ground running next week to get back up to full operational status as soon as possible. What happened this week? Check our Ops Summary to catch up & get more info: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9992
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've used radial & nose cone chutes, now Wernher's R&D team is working on inline chutes we can stack atop the dual-segment Progeny Mk7-B booster so it can be recovered. initially this is just for post-launch assessment of the new design, but future reusability is possible
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket launches were up from last year, which only had 11, and we put 2 kerbals into space! That lineup could increase to as many as 6+ rockets by the end of next year with continued development of the Progeny Mk7 along with debut of the Ascension Mk2 & Mk3
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
welcome to 2020!! šš„ Kerbs are eager to get back to work next week, so much so that Operations Director @DKerman_KSA revoked access privileges to force some to take a vacation. We're not naming names but their initials start with Wernher von Kerman
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSA 2020 ops are kicking off this week with meetings! Lots and lots of meetings as the various programs decide on their goals for the coming year, which we will report on over the course of this week. Admin makes final decisions but all team members contribute
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
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
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 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
full thrust burn of 37s was completed with all the explosions coming out the proper direction. With a dual-segment the join in the casing was highlighted as a potential fail point of the design. A great first step for the new booster! It will be returned to the VAB for inspection
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
K2-X engine for Specialist Bob's mission in April has been delivered for final inspection, along with static fire testing next month. This is the 2nd of 3 arriving in this first quarter of the year, with 3 more in Q3 that should hold us until the new lifter engine is completed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
proposals from Kerbodyne, AEIS, KNES, BDB, NovaPunch & KW Rocketry have all been considered and we have finally chosen to award our new Ascension Mk2/Mk3 engine contract to the KW WildCat-V. It is a dedicated lifter engine meant to be paired with a 2nd-stage vacuum engine
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we were extremely excited by some of the other designs but chose to be conservative and go with a small upgrade. Now that we have more funds to funnel into R&D, the other agencies are continuing to work on the rejected designs for another review later this year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
everything continues to look good for Cpt Jeb's mission next week, also learn more about the new WildCat-V lifter engine and the recently-announced Progeny MK7-B mission in our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=10750 - a good weekend to all!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a tough decision has been made. The Kerbal Space Agency will be suspending launch operations for at least the next two months while we reassess Ascension & Progenitor program management. More details in this press release from @DKerman_KSA: kerbalspace.agency/?p=10854
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
TL;DR - several recent minor oversights both in the rocketry & aircraft programs have begun to worry upper management that we are on course to make a catastrophic error in a future mission. Time to slow down before a major oversight occurs with horrible consequences
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Operations Director @DKerman_KSA rejected Lead Engineer Simon's resignation today. He may have made mistakes but this just shows he is willing to accept them and we expect him to move forward with us and make the most of the experience he has gained over the past 3+ years
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
things will be slowing down for a while, but we do expect to clear out the backlog quickly starting Jun/Jul to remain as close as possible to our projections made at the start of the year. We waited to hear of more Chikelu news but nothing yet kerbalspace.agency/?p=10850
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the final production test Boostertron II has arrived and will be static fired out on the horizontal test stand later this week. Testing 4 boosters for any failures equals the max number we could someday strap onto an Ascension Mk3
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the final Boostertron II test article was successfully fired today. While we will eventually order new ones for the 1st Ascension Mk3 flight, further testing will be done on reusing these initial production boosters. The 1st one fired back in Feb is scheduled to arrive this month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
cleanup & emergency crews are finishing up around the horizontal test stand, which suffered an explosion of the Boostertron II that was undergoing test fire today. How well it withstood the failure remains to be seen but all safety protocols were followed & no injuries reported
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this was the 1st attempt to fire a recast booster, using the same casing from the test firing done back in Feb. While a significant setback for our future hopes of reusable SRBs it wasn't unexpected & plenty of data was collected to help rectify whatever issue(s) are uncovered
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
damage assessment of the horizontal test stand shows that it will only require minor repairs over the next 2 weeks that will hopefully take no longer than the team at Periapsis Co. looking into the failure & getting another used booster ready for the next test firing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
final major hurdle in getting back to rocket flight has been cleared with the full review & analysis of the orbital Kerbin I mission completed kerbalspace.agency/?p=10905 Now Progenitor & Ascension teams will spend May on upcoming mission plans
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
work continues to get our rocketry programs back to flying, but there is still a ways yet to go. Learn more about what lies ahead and take a look back at what transpired over these past two weeks: kerbalspace.agency/?p=10927 Everyone have a nice weekend!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've received the 1st of 2 new Boostertron II SRBs that will arrive this month to fly future Progeny Mk7-B missions. This will round out the initial order purchased back in January however more are already being assembled for the upcoming Ascension Mk3
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rail depot at the end of the tracks coming from Umbarg has been completed, making for a high-capacity cargo link between us and the nearest underground cavern. The train will also be used occasionally to transport kerbs and large rocket parts
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today's test firing of a recast SRB on the horizontal test stand (the 2nd one tested in Feb) went better than the first - it didn't explode! Early data analysis shows however that thrust was diminished rapidly towards the end of the burn, indicating casing issues still remain
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're ramping rocket operations back up! Sadly Progenitor remains sidelined but Ascension is free to fly and we have three launches in the queue:
6/23 @ TBD - Mk1 (unkerbed)
7/16 @ TBD - Mk1 (Spc Bob)
TBD August - Mk2
Save the dates! More details in the coming days šāØ
6/23 @ TBD - Mk1 (unkerbed)
7/16 @ TBD - Mk1 (Spc Bob)
TBD August - Mk2
Save the dates! More details in the coming days šāØ
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although we're happy to finally announce new launch dates, we do also have some unfortunate news in that the Ascension Mk3 has been pushed back to the start of 2021 thx to the Progeny delay, which was supposed to be testing its boosters & scaled down vacuum engine
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
meteorologist Katgan has compiled her report for tomorrow & shows a 70% chance of good launch conditions, citing surface winds as the main issue. Of course, Wx forecasting is still a nascent concept that has the same probability of general accuracy... Regardless, Mk1 stands rdy!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
that is Sarnus hanging out near Mun. The Ascension Mk1 can't reach either but the Mk2 has the potential to send payloads into orbit around Mun & Minmus or at least do fly-bys while the Mk3 should have the capability to send probes out past Sarnus (w/ gravity assists)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
many thanks to NovaPunch for another finely-made K2-X lifter engine, which showed no issues during its static fire out on the vertical test stand today. It will now be placed into storage awaiting a mission assignment but also be rdy to backup the upcoming Mk1 & Mk2 flights
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KW Rocketry have come through on sched for delivery of the WildCat-V test engines, 3 minor design variants will be tested over the coming month for the production version to be finalized & delivered by the end of the yr so it can fly on the Ascension Mk3
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
R&D have concluded that however the Monolith is able to slowly discharge its energy, the understanding is beyond them. The potential for high density EC storage remains tho, and even with quick discharge rates could provide for emergency backup power to hungry spacecraft systems
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
income is back in the red for June as expected but nearly as bad as CFO Mortimer feared, leaving us in good shape to push forward full-steam ahead for the remainder of the year. You can always review our latest monthly report on yearly finances here: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the first of the WildCat-V engines was test fired today on the vertical stand. "Smoke" is steam from the water suppression system in the flame bucket. Check that engine bell going red hot! Lots of post-test analysis still to do & 2 more to go but key test item: did not explode
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
by this month we had hoped to be static-firing recovered Boostertrons and possibly even re-flying one of them on the last of the 4 Mk7-Bs. instead, this month the hope is that Periapsis Co. gets us the booster from the March static fire to try test-firing again w/o thrust issues
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we hope everyone else had as good a week as we did! Although yesterday's mission concludes kerbed space flight for 2020, we have details on upcoming Ascension missions in our weekly Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=11107
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Hot! Hot! Hot! š„ the 2nd WildCat-V test engine also survived a full-length static fire on the test stand today. Like the first test it was put through various throttle ranges. Lead Engineer Simon reports he is pleased - so far performance is as expected!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Launch Vehicle Designer (bit.ly/KSP_TOT) continues to grow more complex but so will our missions, thus it will continue to allow us to communicate various aspects of them visually. While this is a demo by the developer, the Ascension Mk3 could do a Mun flyby like this
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've met w/@LucioleSpace CEO Wellbur Kerman & formalized our partnership. They are absorbing USI, which means we will still have access to Progeny Mk6 parts, including the single-segment SRBs should the Boosterton II's fail to be certified by the time Ascension Mk3 is rdy to fly
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Boostertron II 1st test fired in early Mar was refurbished & has been fired for a 2nd time. Good news is no immediate issues were detected during this static fire, however full data analysis still needs to be completed to determine performance was 100%
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the new capsule that will fly on the Ascension Mk3 has been finalized! The test article will arrive later this year to begin qualification and we hope it will carry a kerbal up into orbit by mid-late 2021. And beyond? No, just meant for LKO with only 1 day of life support
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the third & final static fire test of the WildCat-V engine has been completed - still no explosions! Test articles & data will be sent back to KW Rocketry for final analysis. No problems means we get flight-ready hardware at the start of 2021 to launch the Ascension Mk3!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
get caught up on KSA operations to ensure you don't miss what's currently going on at the KSC campus: kerbalspace.agency/?p=11128 plus even a bit more we couldn't squeeze in to the news card. Everyone have a great weekend!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
big spending this month is what we want to see, working hard to get Ascension closer to being able to accept full commercial launch contracts. CFO Mortimer says we are still looking healthy to continue operations as planned thru 2020. Full report: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
great news from Periapsis Co. confirming that the data from last static fire of the refurbished Boostertron II shows a nominal performance. Now, we just need to repeat the performance and the booster after that will see a reflight instead of a retest!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
one year until the launch window for Extremis 1 opens, which is being planned to fly by Eve, Jool and Plock over the course of just longer than 2 years. This would most likely be launched on an Ascension Mk3, altho not ruling out the chance of a slightly more capable Mk4
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here's how we're hoping the Ascension Mk3 will look, with a standard 3.5m fairing and Mk1-B capsule. Just waiting on confirmation the Viklun stage improvements work (in Sept), the new lifter engine is good and the SRBs are flight capable (latter two are looking good already)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the final K2-X engine ordered in Feb (and final engine overall of this make) has been delivered. This will tide us over into early 2021 while the first production delivery of the WildCat-V later this year paves the way for future lifter engines through the remainder of next year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
from the beach south of KSC, yesterday's Progeny MK7-B arcs towards space, marked by the smoke trail of its lower stage SRB, sailing past Mun and Minmus. Now imagine 4 of these engines and that's what an Ascension Mk3 launch will look like next year!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
CFO Mortimer has updated our financial statements to include August. As always, many thanks to our bit.ly/KSA_Patreon supporters for helping us still manage to turn a small profit this month. Full report: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
word from KW Rocketry is the test data from the WildCat-V static fires here on our vertical test stand show that the engine is ready for production and we will be receiving our first ones on schedule by the end of this year to power the Ascension Mk3 into space by Q2 2021!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Boostertron II originally static fired back at the start of April has just been fired again earlier today on our horizontal test stand. Data still needs a full review but initial results were good. If confirmed we would be clear to fly a refurbished one w/3rd Mk7-B in Oct
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
background details: the train is heading out to Umbarg from the rail depot and Minmus is framed within our vertical test stand
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
āØš Happy Operational Anniversary KSA!! šāØ
šššš
Yes we have been underway now for 4 years. Our founder and Ops Director @DKerman_KSA would like you to know what could be in store for our future - please read his statement on our website: kerbalspace.agency/?p=11270
šššš
Yes we have been underway now for 4 years. Our founder and Ops Director @DKerman_KSA would like you to know what could be in store for our future - please read his statement on our website: kerbalspace.agency/?p=11270
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
so nice to see our improvements to the Viklun stage were effective, as well as retro thrusters on the lifter decoupler. Here is staging & PLF separation. Future improvements will still be needed, Mk3 will now get larger tanks for RCS fuel since these thrusters are so thirsty
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket was off nominal pitch at staging because it had gone high enough that the fins couldn't hold attitude anymore. This was a minor oversight from dampening controls - future flights can widen the movement limits as the rocket climbs so the fins can remain effective even >40km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
huge milestone today as the booster recovered from the ocean after last month's 1st Progeny Mk7-B flight was successfully static fired on our horizontal test stand. This upcoming 3rd Mk7-B flight will use a booster that was originally fired in Mar and again in Apr
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
just firing the booster again doesn't also account for loads & stress during flight. If 3rd Mk7-B flight is good, we will delay the 4th flight in order to re-use the booster from the 2nd flight and see if a pre-flown, not just pre-fired, booster can also remain functional
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bank account remains stable as CFO Mortimer releases our Sept financial report. We're looking good for the remainder of the year. Thanks to all our bit.ly/KSA_Patreon supporters helping to keep us afloat! docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ahhhh simpler times... #OTD 2016 we didn't have to worry about collateral damage if a rocket exploded - its effect would barely clear the launch site. Now we have a complete fire response service on call at KSC which we've thankfully only had to use once twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
if you've been wondering where the image of Kerbin came from that is used for the Ops Tracker orbital vessels, it is a cropped, rotated and enlarged version of this photo taken from 327km by an Ascension Mk1 booster camera back in Aug 2019
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
booster ignition and we have LIFT OFF! This booster will be running for the third time but first time in flight to carry the Mk7-B close to or even into the upper atmosphere. If all goes well, the 2nd stage will be pushing the rest of the way before this first minute expires
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
post-launch operations wrapping up, first stage was once again recovered successfully and is on its way back to the HAB where the fins, chutes and structural adapter will be removed so it can be shipped back to Periapsis Co. for refurbishment & hopefully reflight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new delivery from the rail depot - the Mk1-B capsule has arrived for its qualification trials. It's not meant to carry a kerbal into space, yet. Over the next two months it will undergo atmospheric testing & recovery then get shot off into space in 2021 if all goes well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Periapsis Co. has confirmed the refurbished Boostertron II from the 2nd Aug Mk7-B flight will be delivered to KSC on schedule this week. It is the fastest turnaround yet, they've been gradually reducing the time needed to recast the solid fuel over the course of this year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it may be only 4 calendar years since we started the KSA but in that time Kerbin has orbited the sun 14 times as of today! There are also still 4 outer planets starting with Sarnus that have not even completed a single orbit around Kerbol yet (Sarnus' 1st orbit ends 11/2024)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our CFO Mortimer is excited to be busy working with the Ascension team on laying out contract submission guidelines that will be published later this year to allow for companies to send us proposals for satellites to be launched on the Mk3 in 2021, currently focusing on LKO/HKO
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
flight analysis for the (likely) final Ascension Mk2 mission is now available - kerbalspace.agency/?p=11337 with the success of the Viklun upper stage we can finally complete the design of the Mk3 & expect to have a blueprint by the end of the month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's not time yet for everyone to enjoy the weekend - majority of Kerbin II operations team will be at it until late today - but if it's time for you to log off already be sure to first catch up on major events from these last two weeks: kerbalspace.agency/?p=11332
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
booster ignition & LIFT OFF!! The MK7-B heads up on its final mission, rolling off the pad to orient 34Ā° NE then starting pitch-over, which will not be phased just a continuous movement. BECO <1min followed by a coast to 25km for staging. GO PROGENY! š
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
already cheers in Launch Control after the 1st stage performed as expected. Recall this is the same booster flown on the 1st Mk7-B mission in August! A great accomplishment. Now hoping rest of mission goes as well. Staging should be occurring right about now...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
post-launch ops complete & we are proud to say the Progeny Mk7-B ends service with a fully successful mission - finally! The SRB was recovered 16km downrange just over the horizon from KSC. Minor concern this mission was it possibly coming down over land & being damaged
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
altho it was not damaged, the recovered booster will not fly again - but it will be static-fired once more late next month to confirm it possibly could be re-flown. We will iteratively increase this pattern with re-use of additional boosters moving forward until a failure occurs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
CFO Mortimer has posted our Oct finances and we've scraped out yet another profit. Wait, who's laughing? Oh, that would be Wernher von Kerman with his huge 2021 R&D budget proposal, not to mention looming R&D costs for Mk3 development. But for now - green! docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
2 design tweaks made to the Mk3 since the first render. First change is to the SRB placement, which are higher up now in order to allow the rocket to be properly mounted on the Mobile Launch Platform and align with the service tower linkups for fuel, power and ECLSS
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
second change was the addition of a cold gas tank between the LF/O tanks. Not only does this add more RCS fuel for maneuvering but also raises the center of mass, which means the pitch thrusters on the bottom now have more torque to be even more effective in attitude control
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Ascension Mk3 is looking š¤© and has been finalized for preparation to begin launches in early 2021! It will carry probes to Mun, Minmus and even beyond the Kerbin system. It will carry crew into Low-Kerbin Orbit. Full resolution: flickr.com/gp/kerbal_spacā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although we plan to have the WildCat-V flight-certified by end of Q2 2021, the Mk3 will initially launch with the K2-X, of which 2 are currently available. 3 more have also been ordered just in case issues arise with the WildCat-V during testing. 1st WC-V arrives next month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
other than WC-V engine, the Mk3 is comprised of flight-proven hardware from the Mk1, Mk2 and Progeny Mk7-B. With the K2-X powering at least the first 2 missions we have the confidence to send up actual payloads right away, starting with Kerbin III - more details later this week!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
while the guidance fins are restricted early in flight due to the radial decouplers, if needed the RCS thrusters can be used to help with pitch-over and roll. SRB re-use will have only minor impact on costs but that is not the point - it is just progress towards full reusablilty
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've awarded a contract to Rockomax, to build a LF/O vacuum-optimized engine to be fitted on probes launched by the Ascension Mk3. 1st test will be on Kerbin III in early 2021. The engine will support interplanetary missions & Kerbin missions needing flexible trajectories
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the engine comes with pressurized LF/O tanks to allow 6 restarts, after which cold gas will need to be used to pressurize any main tanks. Each restart will require a bit more gas & not all will be recovered afterwards so it will begin to have an affect on mission longevity
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Wernher's R&D team working on the Monolith crystals have finally produced a viable product in cooperation with Zaltonic. These capacitors can stably store large amounts of energy, which can then be discharged rapidly into battery banks if needed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rapid discharge is necessary to keep the crystals from exploding, which is why we still need batteries for on-demand use. Still, instead of cramming 40 batteries onto a spacecraft, now 4 batteries and 10 capacitors could provide the same amount of usable energy
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the capacitors are one-shot devices. They can't (yet?) be recharged and must dump all their electrical capacity when activated. Although their storage density beats batteries, this is an area Wernher still feels could be improved upon in addition to recharge capability
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
plenty of exciting things to recount & expound upon from these past 2wks, so be sure to check our Ops Summary this weekend while you are kicking back to relax - at least we hope you are! What are your plans? Our crew will be off on a wilderness excursion kerbalspace.agency/?p=11398
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we just concluded a static fire test of the Boosterton II that flew the final Mk7-B mission last month, making this the 3rd time it's been fired after two flights. Still lots of post-test analysis to do but it survived! Next month it will earn a place in our Rocket Garden
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
coming up on a Kerbin II contact window with the expedition the KerBalloon crews are attached to, which will bounce a signal to DSN Central that will be distributed via ground cables to the command centers here at KSC and Sheltered Rock where the science expedition is based from
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
as you can see, Kerbin II does travel away from the expedition site & is not able to communicate every pass. In general the ground teams have 5-8 mins during 5 windows ~35min apart, then a ~3hr wait for the start of the next 5-window pass
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
next year the Ascension Mk3 will be placing 3 commsats into orbits similar to Kerbin II but spaced so when one sets, another will rise to take its place in the sky and enable continuous communication from almost anywhere on Kerbin's surface - latitudes above 75Ā° will be excluded
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
CFO Mortimer has updated our financial sheet with Nov's earnings - or lack thereof as expected. Commercial rocket contracts are on the horizon though! Net profit in 2021? More like '22-23 perhaps. But next year would be nice... docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here is a closer look at the Mk1-B capsule that will fly atop the Ascension Mk3 to carry crew in LKO. It has more internal volume than the Mk1-A to accommodate expanded ECLSS to support the onboard astronaut properly on longer orbital missions. Also a slightly bigger window
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the flatter bottom will conform less to the heat shield but also leave more room for a set of airbags that can deploy to assist with emergency landings on terrain. These are in addition to the flotation collar already used on the Mk1-A for normal splashdowns
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the hatch on top allows for a secondary escape path if the main hatch gets stuck or opening it would take on water. Finally the corrugated paneling will better resist the heat of longer, shallower re-entry from orbit to allow us to reduce Gs on the crew
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
CFO Mortimer reports contract negotiations have concluded with telecom conglomerate CommStar to pay for the 3 communications satellites that will be deployed by the Ascension Mk3 in mid-2021. Initial payment will cover rocket production, sat design to be finalized by March
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here's a first look at Kerbin III, with notes on its design and mission objectives. Final blueprint coming in Jan after any adjustments made based on Kerbin II recovery. Most of this design is final though and has already started assembly to meet the launch target of early Feb
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
also good news on the initial modeling of a straight-up launch for the Ascension Mk3 with a K2-X engine and the Kerbin III probe firing as well - it almost escapes Kerbin SOI! Altho only halfway, from that point just ~47m/s Īv needed to barely break free of Kerbin's influence
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
consider that 47m/s is well within error margins for ascent modeling of a new rocket, going straight up not nearly as efficient as a proper launch trajectory and Extremis I is planned be on top of a Mk3 with the more powerful WildCat-V engine. Interplanetary here we come!! šāØ
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VAB has received all the remaining parts for the Ascension Mk3's lifter & orbital stages. Lead Engineer Simon says the teams are getting them laid out, prepped and are eager to start the assembly process next month for launch in early Feb
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
very quiet at KSC today as everyone mostly ready to head home for new year vacation over the next two weeks. 2021 is looking so busy however Admin staff have agreed to come back in after only a week to begin prepping for operations to resume with vigor on Jan 4th
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our final Ops Summary for 2020 has been published! What an amazing year it has been, despite our troubles towards the end. Thank you everyone for your support, have a safe holiday season and we hope you too are aiming high for 2021! kerbalspace.agency/?p=11442
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
project and program leads as well as KSA admin staff are back to work already, foregoing the normal 2wk vacay to get working on solidifying plans for next year. We will also be doing our regular recaps on the year's operations over this coming week leading into 2021
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
financial report for December has been posted by CFO Mortimer, who will also be working this week on our year-end report to publish at the start of next month. It and our past months/yrs of finances are always publicly available here bit.ly/KSA_Finances
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our 1st WildCat-V engine has arrived for qualification trials to begin next month during the period we'll be adding two final engines to the Progeny Mk8 cluster, freeing up the vertical test stand. We hope to certify it ready for flight by March if no troubles present themselves
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Mk7-B helped qualify the reusable boosters for the upcoming Ascension Mk3 as well as paving the way for the Progeny Mk8 with thrust vector control guidance. Ironically our Progeny Mk6 missions, technically the easiest, did not fare well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all staff and crew are due back at KSC today to begin our 2021 operational year! Here's the new photo that adorns our various social media profiles and website header. This year the only changes planned so far are to expand the Support Village for more on-campus housing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
full financial report for 2020 is now available as its own sheet, the regular link will continue to carry monthly updates through this year. We hope to continue to see growth in 2021 as more and more commercial space contracts become available docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the payload recovered from the failed Mk6-I mission will be integrated into the test mass that will fly on the first Progeny Mk8. Dates for that launch and those for Ascension in Q1 will be locked in next week as Lead Engineer Simon's team gets back up to speed this week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
#OTD in 2019 we determined that our options were wide open for whether to visit Mun or Minmus first (with an unkerbed vessel). If the Ascension Mk3 & Kerbin III's performances are as good as expected, we could very well just take on both with a single mission - later this year!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Q1 launch schedule now filled - save the dates! Additional info via our bit.ly/KSA_Programs page on the website (now with entries for the Mk3 & 8) or the bit.ly/Ops_Tracker. The Mk3, 1 & 8 missions are all pivotal in deciding how we move forward the rest of the year!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the VAB is hard at work getting the Ascension Mk3 ready for her debut flight next month. Solids are getting strapped on! These will all be new boosters. The Viklun stage is still under assembly waiting on its engine & the Mk1 has been mated with its K2-X lifter
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with several successful test runs completed over the past two weeks firing 5 clustered Skeeter engines we are ready to move up to a full complement of 7. While the reconfig is underway the WildCat-V will take a turn on the stand to begin its qualification trials
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here is a closer look at the Kerbin III payload that will ride to space next month atop the Ascension Mk3. Full res on flickr (flickr.com/gp/kerbal_spacā¦). There are some changes to the original design posted late last year, additional images have more information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's time for our first Ops Summary of 2021 - are we two weeks into the new year already?? Learn more about what is in store for the first quarter of this year that will set the stage for the remainder of our planned operations - kerbalspace.agency/?p=11531
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've started static firing of the WildCat-V production article this week. It was first tested back in mid-2020 and needed some redesign work that has delayed its deployment, which is why the Ascension Mk3 going up next month is being lifted by a K2-X main engine
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
core booster ignition, radial boosters ignition and we have LIFT OFF! The final Progeny Mk6 screams skywards into the night. The kick of the radials will last only 6s before they are dumped, core booster will burn for an additional 28s before staging occurs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
radiation levels have elevated slightly beyond normal background ranges, increasing from 1.428mrad/hr to 3.657mrad/hr but this is nowhere near the 10rad/hr levels we should be getting from inside the belt and they do not seem to be increasing any further
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are through apokee and rad levels have not increased. In fact they are very slightly decreasing. 1min hibernation cycle continues, rocket remains ready to stay active & record high rad region but if we didn't hit it on the way up, unlikely it would happen on the way down...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
and that's that. Chute may deploy (it's on there for payload recovery in the event of ascent abort) but no recovery of the rocket is planned. Because we did not encounter at least the inner radiation belt, the mission objectives were not met so this flight was a failure
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
HOWEVER, to say that we did not succeed in maybe learning something new would be incorrect. The fact that we had <1Ā° inclination and did not hit the belt lends credence to scientist's theory that the belt itself is inclined to match the tilt of Kerbin's magnetic pole!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we weren't expecting any new evidence for this theory until well into the Kerbin III mission. Of course, lots of data still to analyze post-mission but this is best explanation we have right now as to how we could have seemed to completely miss the inner belt
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerbin III has arrived from our payload processing facility in Umbarg to be mated with its truss then encapsulated in its fairing. Right before that happens the RTG will be installed. To leave it buttoned up too long would cause the insides to get so hot it would damage things
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
initial WildCat-V static fires showed good data, but we said that last time too. While analysis is ongoing it will be replaced on the vertical test stand with the Progeny Mk8 cluster outfitted with all 7 engines for the final round of tests. All these engines will fly the 1st Mk8
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the stacking begins! Over this next week the Ascension Mk3 will undergo vertical integration atop the Mobile Launch Platform. The orbital stage is finishing up its build to go on next followed by the payload - although this final stacking will occur after a Wet Dress Rehearsal
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Aldeny has pulled back into port at Arekibo after nearly exhausting its supplies again but didn't because it found and recovered the RTG from Kerbin II! \[0_o]/ Not only is it nice to not have it potentially polluting the environment, these things are *really* expensive
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the fuel from this RTG will be re-used in future probes. Although as it ages it will slowly lose power, more than enough remains for smaller missions that don't have as much energy requirements. Some will be sent out never to return, some will still be re-used a few more times
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
kerzzah! āØš„ A happy 15th kerbolar anniversary to us all here at the KSA. Yes, in the time since the Agency has started operations we have traveled around Kerbol 15 times now for a total distance of 1,280,470,886km! Which sounds impressive but is barely over 1 light hour
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
analysis of the Progeny Mk6-II mission reveals reason for lack of high apokee: kerbalspace.agency/?p=11571 also interesting 2nd theory for missing the belt proposed: it no longer exists. At least, for now. Could it wax/wane over a period of time? Kerbin III will help get answers soon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a bunch of stats about the career of the Progeny Mk6 and more details from these past two weeks await you in our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=11574 we hope everyone enjoys their weekend!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
as confident as we feel about getting a kerbal up into orbit this year, it helps to remember that we first said we were going to make it happen almost 2 years ago now. Space is challenging and despite setbacks (Mk1 not being able to make orbit) we push on! twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the process that began last week with the lift stage being stacked atop the MLP has completed with the Viklun orbital stage now mated to the stack. Load checks are now underway while work shifts to securing the entire rocket for the MLP to move out to the pad later this week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
fresh Mystery Goo samples have arrived to be installed in their capsule aboard Kerbin III. Scientists are excited to finally get the Goo a ride that will last longer than several minutes in space to get a better understanding of its long-term exposure to space radiation
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
previous missions have shown the Goo to be extremely resilient both against the harsh vacuum of space and the extreme radiation of the inner belt. The organism has shown to be able to enter stasis and recover when back on Kerbin exposed to kuudie. Long-term exposure may be diff
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rolling! Mobile Launch Platform carrying the Ascension Mk3 is making its slow way out to the pad. It will be hooked up to the service towers and tanked to ensure it can handle the fuel load, no leaks are present, ground support equipment is functioning properly, etc etc.
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
full network check complete for all ground stations to ensure Kerbin III can call home at any time. Antenna have only a limited range for LKO while our DSN dishes can reach across the Kerbin system & beyond to varying degrees. Explore more: ops.kerbalspace.agency/?body=Kerbin-Sā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
report from Lead Engineer Simon on today's wet dress rehearsal is that all went successfully but not without issues. He and his team will be working over the weekend to ensure that the delays experienced today will not affect the countdown next week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
kuudite, the radioactive material that powers our RTGs, was discovered in Sheltered Rock and remains the only known deposit location. The manufacturing facility there has just notified us the airship with our power unit for Kerbin III is on its way to arrive over the weekend
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are now targeting 2/11 @ 17:14 UTC for launch of Kerbin III atop the Ascension Mk3 to allow the VAB more time to prepare the payload after crew members informed Lead Engineer Simon that they felt overworked and stressed to complete the vehicle on time for launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
being that this is a highly-anticipated mission it was scheduled to get up into space ASAP but looks like we were being a bit too ambitious on our timeline. A few days delay is worth it to ensure that months of preparation are not wasted by a rushed deployment leading to failure
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a full investigation into the destruction of CFO Mortimer's computer has shown it was indeed bad electrical wiring and it looks like the problems that have been affecting the Admin Bldg for a while now will require some serious overhaul, tho no effect to ongoing operations
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
vertical test stand is once again hosting the WildCat-V as it begins its second round of qualification testing. Unlike previous engines, this one will not fly afterwards. If all is well though we will have new ones in time for the second Ascension Mk3 mission later this year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Flight Director Lanalye has informed us she noticed we posted an incorrect time for the 2/11 Ascension Mk3 launch, which is supposed to be at 18:57 UTC. We're not sure where the miscommunication occurred but Ops Tracker now has the proper time, we apologize for the error
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
CFO Mortimer has finally been able to post our first financial report for 2021 covering the month of January. Commercial success this year hinges on the Ascension Mk3 & Progeny Mk8 being able to accept contracts, from which we can extract profit: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerbin III final integration went smoothly this week: RTG was installed & payload encapsulated in its fairings then mounted atop the Ascension Mk3 stack, which is now rolling back towards the pad so Kerbin III can be powered on and undergo testing to ensure launch readiness
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our crew are training hard every day with barely any free time but unlike past launches where they've worked it into their sched as available they are making sure not to miss this one despite delays. They are psyched to see their future ride head to space! twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerbin III is healthy & checked out, all launch readiness reviews have been approved by @DKerman_KSA so we are GO for the Ascension Mk3's first launch attempt! Increased length of pre-launch procedures means things will get started early tomorrow at 11:09 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
š
Sunrise/Sunsetš
@ KSC (UTC-5)
2/11
#2š08:48:36 š 10:58:57 !!š!!
#3š14:49:27 š 16:59:48
#4š20:50:18 š 23:00:39
2/12
#1š02:51:09 š 05:01:30
@ KSC (UTC-5)
2/11
#2š08:48:36 š 10:58:57 !!š!!
#3š14:49:27 š 16:59:48
#4š20:50:18 š 23:00:39
2/12
#1š02:51:09 š 05:01:30
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-6h5m] our small team of meteorologists led by Katgan have given the GO for prelaunch procedures to commence, with a 90% favorable forecast for this day cycle. Teams continue to organize & deploy across campus, expect updates at these milestones in the countdown
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5h40m] Flight Director Lanalye has assembled her A team of launch controllers for final preflight briefing. Here is all you need to know about today's planned ascent, which will actually be more aggressive than the Mk2 that failed just over a year ago: ops.kerbalspace.agency
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although the ascent is risky, it gives the mission the best insertion apokee with the most fuel remaining, so it is worth going for. Also, Kerbin III is designed to be recoverable, which means it can abort the ascent if needed and return the entire upper stage with a splashdown
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the main factor in the Mk2's failure was inadequate attitude control. Mk3 not only has more powerful RCS but greater torque force due to its longer body. Fairings will also still be attached when 2nd stage starts off on its own to help with aerodynamic stability & heating
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
yet another reason for pushing the envelope is determining the rocket's limitations, which still can't be modeled to a high-degree. Yes the rocket could fail, but it will do so under the best case conditions for not losing the entire mission in the process
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5h] controllers are on console to begin waking up the Viklun flight computer and placing Kerbin III on standby as pad workers clamber all about the MLP removing flight safety hardware. Latest updates to the AFCS can be found here: github.com/KSAMissionCtrlā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h25m] tanker truck is hooked to the service towers and is GO to onload 810/990u LF/O - 9t of propellants between the 1st(7t) & 2nd(2t) stages. Kerbin III was fueled prior to being encapsulated & is only attached to the service towers for power, comms & environmental control
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h45m] tanking completed on schedule, pad crews moving back in to clean up and move off the truck while controllers can now continue with their preflight checks. Vehicle state changes like this are shown via the Ops Tracker: ops.kerbalspace.agency/?vessel=ascensā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h40m] pad crew clearing out so controllers can move into engine & ignition checks. Issues board remains clear and Lead Engineer Simon is pleased to report that the GSE problems from last week's WDR have not recurred either
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h45m][HOLD] an issue that came up since the last milestone has not been cleared & countdown is on a hold now while we continue to work the problem. Sensor data from the engine is not reading as expected - but is the problem on the rocket, the console or somewhere in between?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
further troubleshooting has revealed old ground cabling is likely corrupting data. We will scrub today to replace them all. Sensor data over RF is as expected, but we need corroboration from two sources. Also, pretty crazy to think that we have old launch equipment!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new cables have been run, Kerbin III still comfy inside its fairings and rocket remains tanked so we can condense our countdown tomorrow. Hopefully now all issues have been taken care of! Prelaunch operations will kick off again at 13:35 UTC for new L-0 of 19:00 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5h25m] launch forecast is 35% favorable & we have decided to delay until tmrw. Launch window is very small so setting up and waiting for weather to maybe improve isn't worth it. Yes it's a wknd but we need the MLP for Progeny Mk8 so any further delays will also push that back
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a lot has changed since the last time we happened to have a rocket out on the pad during a sunrise eclipse! Taken during first sunrise earlier today. We've had more success than failure launching during eclipses so if this were still a launch day we wouldn't have been too worried
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the extended launch delay has left a fully-tanked 21ton rocket sitting atop the MLP and although it is *designed* to handle rockets much larger than the MK3 Lead Engineer Simon still has a crew regularly checking the load bearing elements for any signs of distress
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
if you missed anything important these past two weeks that is not Ascension Mk3 related you can find more info on these events in our Ops Summary, including Ascension Mk3 info. If weather cooperates, prelaunch will kick off tomorrow @ 13:38 UTC! kerbalspace.agency/?p=11606
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
š
Sunrise/Sunsetš
@ KSC (UTC-5)
2/13
#2š08:55:24 š 11:05:45 !!š!!
#3š14:56:15 š 17:06:36
#4š20:57:06 š 23:07:27
2/14
#1š02:57:57 š 05:08:18
@ KSC (UTC-5)
2/13
#2š08:55:24 š 11:05:45 !!š!!
#3š14:56:15 š 17:06:36
#4š20:57:06 š 23:07:27
2/14
#1š02:57:57 š 05:08:18
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5h25m] weather conditions have improved and an 85% favorable forecast was delivered by Kat's team of meteorologists so we are GO to once again begin gearing up for launch preparations across campus. Condensed timeline of major events is as follows
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5h] although the A team of launch controllers is just as prepared as they were earlier this week, sticking to the timeline is important for protocol & FD Lanalye is making it clear no changes have been made to the original flight plan: twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
something easily overlooked about the Mk3 design for this flight in particular is the placement of the RCS pitch thrusters. For Mk2 concern was heavy nose falling down, Mk3 concern is air pressure pushing nose up, so more thrusters are there to help push it down
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
given the variable nature of ascent trajectories we will probably just have 4 thrusters on both sides moving forward. It really is a bit of an overly-prudent measure to just not have 2 extra thrusters, although of course CFO Mortimer would disagree...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h20m] wakey wakey! Flight computers booting up aboard the Viklun & Kerbin III. Kerbin III will power back off after initial checks & stay asleep until orbit, Viklun's dual computers will command the ascent. Pad workers are out at the rocket to prep the physical flight systems
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
leaving port from Umbarg earlier this week, MSV Aldeny is still on station ~225km downrange to handle recovery in the event of an ascent abort. It is near enough to the shipping route between Sheltered Rock & Umbarg that we can pass messages back and forth via maritime captains
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h40m] all is looking nominal as we move into checks of the engine & ignition systems. Pad crew clearing back to a safe distance. Small electrical charges sent to igniters to confirm continuity should not light anything off but always better safe than sorry
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h45m] FD Lanalye confirms rocket is ready to go as preflight concludes. Countdown continues! Range Safety Officer now working to ensure waters and airspace along launch corridor remain clear. Our booster recovery boat has been launched into the bay north of KSC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h35m] KerBalloon has been released to carry its instrument package aloft for some updated upper-level wind data in addition to confirming the earlier surface conditions forecast. It will reach the upper atmosphere (18km+) in ~1hr & climb as high as 25km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h] launch controllers have settled in to rehearse the 3m38s ascent with their consoles being fed simulated data to ensure that everyone knows their roles and that systems are properly configured. This is done a few times with FD Lanalye sometimes throwing in some failures
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] weather remains GO for final countdown procedures to begin. Any further holds from this point will likely scrub the launch as we are aiming to put our apokee opposite the sun so launch window is near-instantaneous. MLP is secured & pad crews withdrawn to a safe distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] RSO has confirmed range clear & closed, engines are ARMED and Flight Termination System is ACTIVE. Spectator areas are packed but do not move outside designated locations. Final check underway by safety officers that all outside are wearing hearing protection
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-13m] late onload of nitrogen gas for pressurizing the Viklun stage is now underway and helps to ensure pad crew safety in the event of a tank rupture. The gas will help to ensure engine restart for SES-2 & SES-3, any additional restarts will use the engine's orbital tanks
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ascent needs to be very tight to put the rocket where we planned for it to go but fin steering likely to exceed these constraints often. So a bit of flashing red during ascent telemetry is to be expected, but a lot of extended red for these & other values will not be a good sign
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] Wx? GO! Range? GO! Tracking? GO! Payload? GO! Flight? GO! Ops Director @DKerman_KSA has given permission to launch - š GO ASCENSION! GO KERBIN III! š FTS internal, service towers unlocked for retraction at terminal count when AFCS startup begins
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4m] Viklun tanks pressures still climbing but have reached levels to help improve upper stage rigidity after service tower retracts. Lower stage is held firm by its boosters but upper stage is more susceptible to strong wind gusts
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-2m] terminal count! Automated Flight Control System has taken over control of the rocket, service towers have detached to leave rocket on internal power & RF comms. Dual flight computers are performing synchronization and SRB hold-down bolt explosives are armed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-1m] tune into the Ops Tracker now if not already! kerbalspace.agency/Tracker/trackeā¦ live ascent telemetry will load after 30s final poll if all goes well. "Hold hold hold!" is not a call we want to hear at any point over this next minute, but it could happen. Final launch sequence:
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good main engine ignition, booster ignition and LIFT OFF! The first flight of the Ascension Mk3 soars up into the sky to carry the Kerbin III probe up into orbit so it can perform a long-term study of the radiation belts. Launch thrust is 306kN for a TWR of 1.45
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
initial ascent showed the rocket already had some issues keeping pace with the required pitch over rate but eventually caught up & returned to nominal. It is now supersonic tho & we expect fin flutter will make it exceed its tight constraints so flashing red may not be *too* bad
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
as expected some very minor deviation in roll/hdg but not enough to exceed constraints. We are however seeing very bad pitch oscillations, which is new behavior not experience by any previous rocket. This does not bode well but hopefully ride smooths out with finless upper stage
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ABORT! ABORT! ABORT! A tumbling upper stage was unable to show signs of recovery and the ascent has been terminated. Viklun ignition was good so the RCS is attempting to re-orient the vessel retrograde while the engine is in low-thrust mode so velocity can be reduced
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
upper stage continues to fight air pressure and orient retrograde. If you see the throttle go wide open than the orientation was successful. If it falls back to 50% it was unable to be held & will keep trying. This reduction in velocity will prevent excess heating as it falls
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
there was some success in slowing down, although late in the final moments of the burn the stage tumbled further out of control than expected and actually started to gain velocity again! But SECO arrived shortly and upper stage is now nearing terminal velocity anyways
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we won't know the fate of the rocket until we hear from MSV Aldeny on the VHF radio, but we do know it was in the best possible configuration for a successful splashdown when we lost contact, so that is reassuring. It will hit hard, but Viklun stage will soak up most of impact
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Aldeny is about 1.5-2hrs away from the rocket's last known position but should already be underway at best possible speed & sea conditions were reportedly good in the area. Meanwhile, all 4 boosters confirmed down intact & are being towed back to shore one at a time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're relaying through 2 other ships but have received the message that MSV Aldeny has found the rocket intact! Viklun stage suffered heavy damage as expected but Kerbin III is looking in good shape. Great to hear the best worst case scenario for this mission has been achieved
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ultimately of course this mission will be marked as another failure but like our last one in January it's not a total loss as we have collected valuable data which will be put to good use planning for future missions, including the re-flight of Kerbin III
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
post-launch operations wrapping up with the final booster heading back to the VAB where it will be inspected with the others before being shipped back to Periapsis Co. in Umbarg for refurbishment. Rocket should be back at KSC by Tuesday
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
telemetry from yesterday's flight is now available: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dā¦ we will fill in the missing final minutes once we can recover the data from the flash memory aboard the Viklun stage after it returns to KSC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
until we are able to examine the upper stage there remains a chance that some assembly error led to the abort but we more than likely simply exceeded the capabilities of the rocket. So had we launched on the original date the outcome would have likely been for the same reasons twitter.com/DanielR8737144ā¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our crew did not miss the launch and are excited to one day ride this rocket up into orbit. Several years ago they didn't know for sure if they'd even get to take a ride up into space yet! The final frontier is broadening bit by bit...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are working on a full launch video but here is a look at initial ascent and booster drop from the ground tracking cam atop the Tracking Station & cam atop the crew tower. Bonus to upper-stage recovery is that we will get high FPS video from the booster camera for once!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Viklun stage & Kerbin III have been transported via rail back to KSC after arriving in port at Umbarg on Sunday. We still have to confirm that Kerbin III remains fit for flight but visual inspection looks good. Entire Viklun stage will need to be rebuilt but that was expected
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
in putting together the Ascension Mk3 mission report timeline (kerbalspace.agency/?p=11619), since it is the first, we go all the way back thru the rocket's development as well. That reminded us of this tweet outlining the Mk3's design goals. What happened to the TVC vacuum engine?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the original plan to develop a 1.25m TVC vacuum engine was put on hold to instead work on the 1m vac engine suitable for payloads and also because our experience with the Progeny Mk7 made us want to get more TVC engineering data from the Mk8 for a fully TVC Ascension Mk4 by 2022
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
there is also now apparently a threat against KSC and we have complied with orders from the government security forces earlier today that the entire facility be evacuated. We will continue to operate at limited capacity from our HQ in Umbarg until the threat has passed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
at this time we do not know the nature of the threat or the time frame, but given that we have suffered an attack in the past (kerbalspace.agency/?p=9965) we have no choice but to take this seriously & deal with the relatively minor inconvenience compared to a potential loss of life
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
some Ascension Mk2 bit.ly/KSARecords have now been claimed by the Mk3:
(previous record)
Heaviest Rocket Launched, Minus Payload: 19.862t (17.5t)
Heaviest Payload Launched, Orbital Trajectory: 1.662t (767kg)
Tallest Rocket Launched: 16.782m (16.212m)
(previous record)
Heaviest Rocket Launched, Minus Payload: 19.862t (17.5t)
Heaviest Payload Launched, Orbital Trajectory: 1.662t (767kg)
Tallest Rocket Launched: 16.782m (16.212m)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
when the Viklun stage splashed down the empty fuel tanks blew out, helping to alleviate impact pressure on the payload but fragments pierced the flight computer & damaged the flash memory. Onboard tlm data was lost but the ops log final mins were able to be pieced back together
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
onboard vid shows the pitch oscillations during the Ascension Mk3's ascent were way worse than we imagined - the *entire rocket flexed* š± inherent structural issue? Could also be from the air pressure at the nose (think boat bow slamming up & down on hvy seas) from shallow angle
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Viklun upper stage will be systematically dismantled to help determine the cause of the flexing and what effect it had on the overall structural integrity of the rocket. The damage from splashdown will reduce these findings but hopefully the effort will still prove valuable
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a final round of static fires last week has completed the WildCat-V's second qualification run & we'll know for sure by next month if it is finally ready for production. If so, two will be ready by Q3 2021 for Extremis I and a Min/Minmus mission
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've also placed another order for K2-X engines. This latest Ascension Mk3 mission has shown we want to move faster than planned to the Mk4 so the thrust vector control version of the WildCat-V will begin development immediately and we will order more when that is ready
