Our second attempt at orbit went more as planned, with the satellite taking long-term science observations, proving orbits are stable above the atmosphere and teaching us new lessons on orbital operations and recovery
This dispatch includes all pre-launch development updates as well as launch into orbit. If you would like to skip to the start of the mission click here.
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-20m] still no word from MSV Tongjess so over-horizon comms not bouncing signals well today, but we at least know from Lymun they were headed out there. We can't wait until we can bounce a signal off a satellite instead of the finicky atmosphere
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
if all went well Bill, Bob & the KB crew should be at their release site. We don't like remote operations that can't check in regularly but one day satellite communications will let us worry less. Airship due to return tomorrow so we will have some news then
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
we arranged with an airship enroute from Kravass to Umbarg to contact our KerBalloon team out in the field and the captain reports they made it to the release site safely. Hopefully next year we have satellites in orbit to let us talk to such ground expeditions directly
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bouncing radio waves off the ionosphere helps us stay in touch with far-flung surface expeditions but it's not the most reliable method of communication. Next year hopefully we will have satellites in orbit for better contact en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skywave
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
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
with the rocketry programs suspended, the Tracking Station will undergo maintenance to get a head start on the upgrades that will be needed towards the end of this year when we hopefully start lofting communications satellites into orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
sea cabling has connected the two ground stations running from Kravass and the Kongo Research Base to their coasts. Future orbital missions will now be able to send & receive commands through the Kongo ground station, which will only be used for low-Kerbin orbit
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
final design approval is underway for Kerbin II, riding up on an Ascension Mk2 later this year as our CommSat pathfinder. It will test use of a functional RTG unit, on-orbit operations & station keeping, multi-channel comms relay, redundancy systems and decommissioning procedures
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
events late last week postponed our bi-weekly Ops Summary to allow us to share better details, unfortunately the news from USI is not good & has temporarily suspended Progeny launches. Ascension looking better, but still behind sched. More details: kerbalspace.agency/?p=10993
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
engineers have spent the past 3 months working to redesign the Viklun upper stage for better success at reaching space without flipping. Here is a thruster simulation to help determine how much force is needed to hold/change its attitude
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the 2nd K2-X engine from the order placed back in Feb has arrived at KSC. It will be static fired next week after the Mk1 mission and then will serve as backup to Bob's mission and the 2nd Mk2 mission before being assigned its own flight - likely to deploy commsats on a Mk2!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerbin II is undergoing final integration at our OKTOsat partner facility in Kravass for launch on the next Ascension Mk2 in late August. Going from 0.625m to 0.75m for the fuel tank is a tight squeeze for a 1.25m fairing but designers made it work for longer commsat life
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerbin II's mission will not last more than several weeks and in addition to the goals for the commsat qualification will carry out science observations regular commsats will not, such as radiation monitoring, solar wind detection and Kerbin observation (cam opp rad instrument)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Specialists Bob & Bill have both been settled into quarantine in the Astronaut Complex, where they will be monitored by medical teams while relaxing after their vigorous training. Not just to prevent sickness, also to get a good baseline medical reading prior to spaceflight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
medical team reports the crew remain healthy and are sleeping well. They usually take this time to work on personal projects. Bill is building a simple radio receiver that will let kerblings hear Kerbin II while Bob works on coding a new integrator with our astrodynamics team
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
our next orbital payload has been completed and will be shipped to KSC by the end of this month to be integrated w/ its Ascension Mk2 launch vehicle. Kerbin II will test a functional RTG, comms tech & perform science and kerrestrial observations. Full res: flickr.com/gp/kerbal_spacβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
high-altitude KerBalloon crew should have reached their target location yesterday and should have released their balloon today. If so, we expect them back at the Kongo base late tomorrow. Soon we will have CommSats to enable us to stay in touch better with ground expeditions!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have received Kerbin II from OKTOsat to prepare it for fairing encapsulation and mounting on the launch vehicle under assembly behind the photographer. Can anyone spot the missing element of the satellite and tell us why it's not there?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
.@starseeker8749 correct on the part, but wrong on the reason. The RTG is safe to handle - alpha particle decay doesn't even penetrate skin so easily contained within the unit itself. Security is a general concern, not just here at KSC during final integration
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the answer to our earlier photo about the missing part on Kerbin II is the RTG produces enough heat to become an issue when encapsulated within a fairing - so it will not be installed onto the satellite until just before launch through a special access hatch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the RTG for Kerbin II has been assembled on sched despite mission delay, meaning it will be putting out less power by the time the mission launches due to the continual decay of the Kuudite but the difference will not matter for this mission, launching no earlier than mid-Sept
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's time to get hype for our 2nd orbital mission launching next month!! Vehicle construction is going well, mission planning is in its final stages. More details will be shared over the coming weeks but for mission/vehicle overview see the Ops Tracker: ops.kerbalspace.agency/?vessel=ascensβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
taking inspiration from the recent unkerbed Mk1 mission the Kerbin II satellite's decoupler has been packed with smaller batteries for an extra 37EC of backup power. Should anything happen to the RTG this should be enough to get the probe back down from orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the separate sections of the Ascension Mk2 - lifter, orbital, payload - are all finishing up their individual checks prior to the start of vertical stacking later this wk on the Mobile Launch Platform parked to the rear, which also needs attention as it's not been used since Feb
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
vehicle stacking is progressing well in the VAB. The RTG has just recently arrived, although it will not be installed until the day prior to launch. Tracking dishes here and other ground stations are being calibrated. We remain on sched for launch next wk! ops.kerbalspace.agency/?vessel=ascensβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we all have our heads down working hard towards next week's mission, which don't forget will not just be a few mins long! If all goes well we will have a lot of ongoing mission updates to bring you afterwards and we are excited to share more on-orbit ops after Kerbin I's success
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
final checkouts on the Ascension Mk2 have been completed, the rocket stands ready atop the Mobile Launch Platform, set to roll out from the VAB and head to the pad on Monday ahead of launch attempt on Wed. Ready, set... GO? That's what we're hoping for!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
mission controllers better enjoy what could be their last weekend off in a while. Find out more information on the events of the past two weeks and anything important you might have missed in our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=11261
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Mk2 was rolled out at the start of today to be hooked up to the service towers and undergo a wet dress rehearsal that saw it loaded up with 9t of liquid propellants between its 2 stages. All systems were good & we remain on sched. RTG installation will take place tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
technicians will access the rocket via the crew gangway to install the RTG today via a hatch in the fairing. Hooked up to the tower environmental system used for capsules the RTG heat will be pumped away and Kerbin II can be powered up and tested
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our seemingly well-laid plans for installing the RTG on the pad have come up against some unforeseen and insurmountable problems - at least, this time. We are forced to roll back to the VAB and make some adjustments. Launch delayed until next week ops.kerbalspace.agency/?vessel=ascensβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
modifications have been made that should allow us to properly install the RTG on Kerbin II after roll out - we will try again next week. All other supporting requirements for launch attempt remain ready. Another relaxing weekend for mission controllers, do enjoy!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Ascension Mk2 is back on the pad atop the MLP, being hooked up to the service towers, transport struts removed & engine support stand installed. It will undergo another full wet dress rehearsal because there's no good reason to assume everything is still fine from last week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ground service equipment came up with no issues, rocket was tanked & wet dress rehearsal went well earlier today. Tomorrow we will again attempt to install the RTG so Kerbin II can be powered up & undergo final pre-launch testing. Meanwhile, the Ascension Mk2 sits looking pretty
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the RTG was successfully installed today, Kerbin II was powered up and confirmed to be in good shape. It will now remain switched off until it is deployed - hopefully in orbit! All launch readiness reports are GO and prelaunch ops will kickoff tomorrow @ 15:16 UTC if Wx holds
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-4)
9/23
#2π 09:00:23
#3π12:50:54 π 15:01:14 !!π!!
#4π18:51:45 π 21:02:05
9/24
#1π00:52:36 π 03:02:56
#2π06:53:27
@ KSC (UTC-4)
9/23
#2π 09:00:23
#3π12:50:54 π 15:01:14 !!π!!
#4π18:51:45 π 21:02:05
9/24
#1π00:52:36 π 03:02:56
#2π06:53:27
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h30m] Wx balloon released earlier has given us a favorable 90% GO forecast for today's launch attempt. Teams are assembling around KSC to begin prelaunch operations. Rocket remains tanked, so condensed countdown will be as follows. Expect updates at these milestones
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h50m] Flight Director Lanalye has her A team ready for final preflight briefing. Mission profile will be similar to that of Kerbin I, looking to insert into an inclined circular orbit. Original inclination was higher, but reduced to increase ascent error margins
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
one of 2 mission contingencies is if Viklun attitude control still incapable. Engine will cut this time, apokee should already be >70km by time of SES-1 if main throttle properly holds TWR in early ascent this time. Should be able before Ap to insert with Pe just outside atmo
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
2nd contingency is for total ascent failure. Because Kerbin II is designed to be recoverable at mission end that means it can also abort inflight and save itself. If it splashes down we could still lose it, but such an abort would likely be late-ascent over land
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the rocket will be following an optimized ascent profile so you will see Ascent Phase callouts in the flight log as it transitions between pitch profiles. We hope to follow more accurately than our first attempt, breaking down the ascent into 9 phases instead of 2 this time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h15m] controllers are on console, rocket being woken up to load flight software while pad crew begins to remove launch safety hardware and run GSE prechecks. The code powering this mission is fully available on our github - github.com/KSAMissionCtrlβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this is not where you wanna be come launch, but even still looking up at the Ascension Mk2 can be an intimidating sight. If you could withstand the heat, the acoustic vibrations would practically shake you apart. Taken by a pad worker lying on their back
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h45m] issues board remains clear, rocket is ready to go! Pad crew securing the launch equipment while Range Safety Officer performs another check of airspace & waters around KSC in and under ascent corridor/stage splashdown areas
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] update from the weather desk on surface conditions remain 90% GO with an eye on wind gusts off the grasslands due to a low-pressure system offshore. Data still being received & analyzed from upper-atmo but we are cleared into the final countdown launch phase
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] final readiness polls - Tracking: GO! Flight: GO! Range: GO! Weather: GO! Payload: GO! Launch clearance granted from Ops Dir @DKerman_KSA! FTS is on internal power, service towers unlocked for retraction. The air in Launch Control feels electrified
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good main engine start, SRB ignition & we have LIFT OFF!! Kerbin II is on its way to space atop the Ascension Mk2, rolling from 45Β° onto 60Β° then pitching downrange. Boosters putting out 274kN pushing the rocket almost by themselves, will burn out to be dropped after 33s
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a bit scary at staging seeing the pitch constraint go into the red but Viklun was able to recover, held proper attitude and we have achieved target apokee! Ascent was actually more efficient than planned, leaving us with extra fuel in the tank. OIB planning underway
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the faster computers down here crunched the numbers and we sent up the resulting burn timings to the Mk2. SES-2 will occur @ 19:52:10 UTC and last for 54s. Tank pressure is good for restart, RCS fuel levels are a bit low but Kerbin II reaction wheels are enough to hold prograde
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KERZZAH!! orbital insertion success for the Mk2! π« \[0_o]/ our reaction may seem delayed but data from spacecraft had to be checked & confirmed. Launch Control is in an uproar as everyone congratulates each other. FD Lanalyle officially announces LC is now MC - Mission Control!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
as post-launch ops begin on the ground, orbital ops are now underway in space! Controllers are getting the Viklun stage flight computer launch ops purged & set up for orbital ops. Then we will begin prep for Kerbin II deployment later today. Ops Tracker will continue to update
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Viklun stage has just completed its first full orbit. Coming around from the night side back into sunlight earlier the team deployed the RTG's extendable arm so the heat it radiates does not fall so heavily back on the spacecraft, which is also in a slow roll for thermal control
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
prep for Kerbin II deployment continues with both primary & backup radio antennas now extended. We'll need some time to test & ensure comms to Kerbin II are working properly but are looking to kick the spacecraft free within the next hour
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
controllers prepping to orient the Viklun stage radial-out for deployment. With high-pressure RCS fuel low, just a blip is used to get the spacecraft slooowwwlly moving in the right direction, then SAS will be switched back on to lock orientation with reaction wheels
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
translation complete, final activation sequence for Kerbin II is underway to prepare its flight computer for post-deployment boot up. We will then test the RCS thrusters, connect the batteries, open the cold gas fuel valves and activate the cold gas engine
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
final checks on Kerbin II are looking good, just 1-2min now from deployment. Stand by! Viklun has switched to battery power to prep for loss of RTG. Locks on the payload truss will open to allow springs to gently push Kerbin II away. It should then power up & check in after 10s
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
more cheers & applause in Mission Control as we receive data from Kerbin II, now floating free! 1 step closer to mission success for the Mk2! If you're looking at the Ops Tracker, Mk2 now has a link to Kerbin II but if not head here for spacecraft deets: ops.kerbalspace.agency/?vessel=kerbinβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
electrical system test good, Kerbin II batteries have been disconnected. While the RTG itself is nearly fail-proof the electrical connection could potentially become inoperative, at which time the batteries will be reconnected for emergency power that will allow us to de-orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
The Viklun stage, which is now operating on a single flight computer (can swap to backup if needed), has been hibernated with enough batt power to last over a day. It will be deorbited tomorrow. Kerbin II checkouts are still underway but so far no issues have been raised
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good comms from both antennae on Kerbin II so the backup has now been retracted. This will conclude orbital operations for today. Controllers will continue to monitor & we'll update with any issues. if none arise, tomorrow we will bring the camera and science instruments online
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
off-duty watch was carried out with no issues, Kerbin II continues to function nominally and we had a good health check with the Viklun stage, now back in hibernation until later today. Controllers will continue to work on getting Kerbin II ready for science observations next wk
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mun & Minmus setting earlier today as seen from Kerbin II at 228km apokee. Photos will be few because other than bandwidth concerns during science operations pointing the camera uses the same fuel needed for eventual de-orbit. We will be using the camera as much as possible tho
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
recap the details of this week's launch, learn about the current status of Kerbin II & how its mission will progress. Catch up on any other big stories you may have missed these past two weeks in our Ops Summary. Weekend shifts in Mission Control begin! kerbalspace.agency/?p=11280
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerbin II includes a sub-channel that sends out a regular ping, which can be tuned to on a certain frequency. KSC visitors will be able to listen to the satellite pass by overhead thx to the radio kits from Bill twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtr⦠- yet another reason to visit the surface!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
for the first time KSC visitors can take tours of our spacecraft control center while it is active. Prior public access has only been between missions and it's way cooler to see some kerbs at their consoles and all the screens alight with data!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerbin II has by now exceeded both Kerbin I's record mission distance of 396,096.3495km and the Ascension Mk2's orbit total of 37 and of course it still has a long ways yet to go so bit.ly/KSARecords has updated to refer to Kerbin II with a "+" to note ongoing progress
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
controllers have successfully initialized all the science instruments aboard Kerbin II and observations are now underway. Not enough power to run instruments & transmit at the same time so the 16MB hard drive will fill up then we'll pause data collection & beam back stored data
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
data collection is continuous, so Kerbin II's HDD filled up in just over 2hrs but it took almost 3hrs to beam it all back cause it's low enough to not be able to constantly see all ground stations. Lead Scientist Cheranne congrats the team on 1st of many science data deliveries
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
things move fast on orbit, and traveling an average of 2.09km/s carries Kerbin II a distance of 5,077km per orbit which means it has by now surpassed 1,000,000km traveled - a first for any mission. If it stays up until the end of the year it could clock as much as 16,399,920km!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
coming down late yesterday after the science data were images taken earlier in the day looking over the antipode uplift to the Sea Ring impact crater, atop which sits the DSN Central ground station along with an ATN observatory. Here's the best one
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
there was no decay detected in the orbit of the Ascension Mk2's upper Viklun stage, however this could be due to its short stay in space and the fact that our own measurements may still be largely inaccurate. It's now up to Kerbin II's longer mission to possibly determine
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new contract for the low-alt KB team will have them hop aboard a regular supply ship from Umbarg to Arekibo, get dropped off along the way to traverse via UTV to the release site, then back to the water to be picked up when the cargo ship sails back to Umbarg a few days later
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
normally this type of mission would be carried out via airship with a lot more support supplies but with Kerbin II in orbit making passes overhead the team can radio for any assistance from the Kongo base if needed & we can stay in touch with them on a regular basis
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after spending the majority of the day collecting & downlinking science data, Kerbin II also runs through comms protocol testing with all our ground stations & commercial telecomms. It can even be seen 3-4Β° over the horizon occasionally by DSN North & South stations
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
latest down-link of science data also included this image that was up-linked from out in the field as the high-altitude KB team release their fifth and final balloon near the mouth of the Kongo river. They'll be packing up and heading home this month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerbin II's first week of science runs has concluded, sending down nearly 150MB of data, just a small chunk of the several GB expected. We're purposely splitting up collection/down-link not just due to power reasons but to keep the spacecraft easier to operate in these early days
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
as we get more accustomed to operating the spacecraft & ensure its systems all continue to function nominally we can speed up science collection, allowing down-link to be performed simultaneously with power monitoring & keeping it running during low-staff off-hours. Small steps!
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
Kerbin II, despite reports we've been seeing on the news, is not visible to the naked eye. It is too small and yes white in color but that is not enough. Someday, larger satellites carrying kerbolar panels could potentially reflect enough light to be visible from the ground
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch readiness reviews have been completed, signed off on by Ops Dir @DKerman_KSA so we are π GO FOR LAUNCH π - weather tomorrow is looking a bit iffy with only 65% good conditions. If it doesn't worsen, prelaunch ops will begin @ 15:45 UTC (pic from tanking after 3rd sunset)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
yesterday controllers had to deal with bit.ly/Kerbin-II entering safe mode when a bad command was sent to the spacecraft. Something like this is not supposed to crash the flight computer but spacecraft was recovered without issue & ops are nominal
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/AFCS_KSA has been updated with the bugfix and the new boot file was uploaded to & accepted by the spacecraft earlier today at the start of daily science operations. The flight computer can continue to receive needed software upgrades as the mission progresses
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mission Control will again become Launch Control for today but there is enough capacity in the Tracking Station to allow for Kerbin II operations to continue unhindered while the Progeny Mk7-B takes flight later. They are not planned to talk to one another
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h30m] still on-sched for launch! Rocket is ready to go, pad crew making final checks. Kerbin II pass has allowed us to talk directly with MSV Aldeny 260km downrange & ensure that sea conditions are good for recovery of the second stage. Booster recovery ship is in the water
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our delayed launch time does present us with an opportunity as Kerbin II will now be passing within sight during the mission. The two spacecraft were not designed to talk to one another but MSV Aldeny can receive the Mk7-B's tlm & beam it to us via Kerbin II
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
Kerbin II is passing over the recovery area every ~40min and on this check-in with MSV Aldeny we have confirmed they reached the splashdown location and have begun search operations. Payload likely drifted a fair distance, radio beacon is short-range
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
unfortunately we have to mark today's mission as another failure :/ MSV Aldeny just communicated with us that they recovered only the probe core and above, which means the rocket broke apart on re-entry & we lost the engine again. Bummer! Final flight will have new mission goals
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-altitude KerBalloon crew have set out on the cargo ship bound for Arekibo out of Umbarg, will be dropped off along the way to release two balloons over bit.ly/Sector_KD-T. We'll be keeping track of their progress thanks to relayed comms from Kerbin II to Kongo base
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
*click* *click* *click* - if you could hear sounds in space that's what you'd hear now from Kerbin II as the shutter on its camera works. We can't waste too much fuel pointing so it's a bit of a rough guess but we'll have our favorite posted later today after the next down-link
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here's Kerbin II looking SE down at Arekibo in the middle of Sea Ring crater. We're going to keep up with 1 photo op per week. Timing will depend on when sat passes overhead and when the location we're aiming for tells us they have some relatively clear skies
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our Operations Director provides a detailed look at how we deal with spacecraft software problems and tell the spacecraft what to do after we had to handle a problem with Kerbin II earlier this week twitter.com/DKerman_KSA/stβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the low-altitude KB crew are checking in regulalrly through bit.ly/Kerbin-II as they work through their overland transit to get to the release site after being deployed by the cargo ship. They will deploy over the weekend if all goes well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we hope everyone has a great weekend but before you log off be sure to get caught up on all the cool and exciting things that have transpired over the past to weeks here at the Kerbal Space Agency: kerbalspace.agency/?p=11318
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-altitude KerBalloon crew have made their first release today. Image was sent via Kerbin II to the Kongo base then along the ground cable to us at KSC (re-routed at Kravass then Umbarg). So cool to finally be able to keep tabs on distant surface expeditions!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
in the past, we've had to rely on airships for comms over the horizon, this is just one example of many. It was still rather limited in overall range. Having the network and spacecraft to do this ourselves across the globe is a goal we've long sought twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerbin II continues to operate nominally and has thus far down-linked over 350MB of science data as we continue for another week to operate the spacecraft part-time with full ground oversight and keep close watch on its vital systems
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
earlier today Kerbin II caught up with Mun's shadow as it began to cross the ocean between DSN Central & Arekibo. We almost missed this because near here is the single gap in coverage where the spacecraft has no ground station to communicate to. Photo taken just prior to LOS
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
latest report from the low-alt KB crew is that they made it back to the boat okay, however the second release failed when the balloon refused to inflate due to damage that likely occurred during transit. Uncommon, but always an unfortunate possibility
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
next week Kerbin II will begin full-time science runs after yet another week of no issues and testing of the software that will manage the electrical system to ensure the demands of simultaneous collection and transmission do not overwhelm it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
yesterday was the first full day of continuous Kerbin II science data collection, beaming down nearly 100MB of data by EOD. Because our avg data collection is slightly higher than avg xmit speed + comms gap between DSN Central/Arekibo eventually drive still fills in ~12hrs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
so the day ends with science instruments switched off and the HDD is emptied, then spacecraft remains idle for diagnostics and health monitoring. Sci ops have already kicked off again today ~7am local and we expect to carry out similar ops all week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a little over an hour ago Kerbin II was passing ~300km south of KSC and we oriented it to take this photo, which just came down intermingled with the science data. The cape is under some clouds to the far right and you can see a frontal system being stalled out by the mountains
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today bit.ly/Kerbin-II became the first spacecraft to hit quadruple digits and surpass 1,000 orbits of anything! You can always find out how many orbits it has completed by hovering your mouse cursor or tapping on the number of seconds given for its orbital period
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
after 464MB of data down-linked over this past week, Kerbin II has just finished its final HDD dump and will suspend science operations over the weekend for system checks. The following week we plan to again continue with the simultaneous collection/transmission of science data
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerbin II started operations today with its photo of the week. Coming around into Kerbin's shadow we pointed the camera out into deep space and let it capture a long exposure. Our dream remains to visit our neighboring stars someday, some less than a light year away
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Progeny Mk7-B rollout is underway. bit.ly/Ops_Tracker will show when it is hooked up, then fueled to undergo wet dress rehearsal. Downrange tracking stations at Sheltered Rock & Ockr are being checked out today as well since we'll be flying northeast for this launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
WDR underway and looking good; with the main control building again serving as Launch Control mission operators for Kerbin II have temporarily relocated Mission Control to the Tracking Station. Kerbin II will not be needed to play a role in this upcoming flight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerbin II is starting to dump its HDD after a full day and another full week of science collection - but it's not done yet! Week will now end on Sunday as we continue science operations through the weekend. Probe has been performing like a champ so far & orbit also remains stable
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
operations continue smoothly for Kerbin II, which ended its first extended week yesterday with 691MB of science data downloaded since the previous Monday. We will maintain the current schedule and bump it to 24/7 next week if all goes well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerbin II photo of the week has been down-linked, taken early today as it passed over the terminator into night. Pretty as this view is, mission ops team was actually performing a specific observation: looking to see if any aurora was present at the pole (south in this photo)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've already determined a link between the outer radiation belt and the aurora. The outer radiation belt has also been found to be influenced by kerbolar activity. Other than tracking sunspots & flares, still not a well-studied area, bright aurora can signify high kerbolar wind
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
in addition to the onboard instrument, checking for aurora will help get a rough measure of "space weather" around Kerbin. This could in turn affect the stability of the probe's orbit, altho how much or even if so are questions we hope this mission will help us understand better
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
to conserve RCS fuel, the craft has been oriented almost anti-normal with a roll rate that brings the camera onto the terminator facing a pole twice each orbit. This is out of its normal thermal control position/roll rate so controllers will be keeping a close watch on it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/Kerbin-II science ops were suspended earlier today when an EC overdraw was detected & instruments were automatically switched off. Xmit of collected data still ongoing & will be monitored. After it completes we will run a full health check on the probe over the wknd
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
be sure to check our bi-weekly Ops Summary to catch up on the big happenings here at the KSA and even if you've been following along closely you'll likely still find new info as we elaborate on these events. Everyone have a good weekend! kerbalspace.agency/?p=11375
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Minmus is transiting the sun right now but you would have to be >50Β°N latitude to see it. Unlike distant planets you can align the inclined moon to the sun by traveling "up"/"down" on Kerbin. Affects Mun too of course - for example the northern caverns only see partial eclipses
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
unfortunately the next Minmus transit visible from the equator won't be until well after Kerbin II is de-orbited so its highly diffuse shadow falling on Kerbin will not be able to be photographed until a future mission. Whether it can even be seen is still a matter of debate
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today from KSC @DKerman_KSA had the honor of phoning the Presider above ground at Sheltered Rock directly through Kerbin II! This was the first direct satellite communication, until now all comms were sent down to a ground antenna then through ground cables
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this technology demonstration culminates Kerbin II's telecom capabilities that have been in testing since beginning its mission back in Sept. More testing will of course ensue but all the basics are now confirmed ready for deployment aboard dedicated comsats in 2021
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
science operations resumed today for bit.ly/Kerbin-II, details on the power issue are on the Ops Tracker - click the black title bar at the bottom of the craft image. Spacecraft remains healthy & mission team says kerbolar wind instrument is nearly finished calibrating
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although thermal control was not an issue that led to Kerbin II's power overdraw last week, it remains an important aspect of the mission. The spacecraft experiences temperature differences between 230K in shadow and 425K in sunlight, transitioning between the two 71 times a day
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
both KerBalloon crews will be venturing with an expedition deep into the Badlands to explore a suspected super-volcano caldera. Multiple releases will measure weather and also collect gas information. Kerbin II will support the mission by allowing more constant contact
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
unlike a previous mission where just the small KB crew used Kerbin II to stay in touch with a nearby support base, this large expedition will be more remote, carry a lot more support but also cover a wider area and be able to stay in direct contact with spread out teams as well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
another power overdraw on Kerbin II today, briefly interrupting science collection. The event was similar to last week's and the changes made to the power management software allowed the spacecraft to recover on its own and resume observations shortly afterwards
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
Kerbin II has completed science data collection for today and mission PI has reported the kerbolar wind instrument appears to be fully calibrated. We'll know for sure over the weekend as data rates will drop significantly as more precise measurements are taken
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we kept from moving Kerbin II while ensuring thermal control was not a contributing issue to the power overdraw & got it positioned earlier today for a crisper sunrise photo. The Kerbin I photo back in Feb was grainy due to damage from unplanned outer radiation belt crossings
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
science data has slowed to a trickle, bit.ly/Kerbin-II instruments are calibrated and now taking more precise measurements to changes in their environment. With the HDD in no danger of reaching capacity, the probe is now running science observations 24/7
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon crews have shipped out from Umbarg aboard airships carrying the expedition out to the Badlands. They will pick up supplies shipped earlier to DSN Central then head down to spend a month researching the suspected caldera, releasing 3 low & 5 hi-alt balloons
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
photo of the week from Kerbin II was captured late yesterday as it peered over the terminator into Kerbin's shadow. Mun was eclipsed, the red light bending through Kerbin's atmosphere illuminating it while within its shadow. Minmus, inclined & distant, remains lit by the sun
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the expedition to regain contact with the exiled/lost tribe has departed. Unlike the previous attempt, they are now outfitted to go in search of them as all previous contact was made by them first so the exact location of their caverns is still unknown
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although the goal is to establish peaceful contact, they are prepared to defend themselves if necessary as previous contact was hostile. Kerbin II will be used in support of this endeavor as well so critical decisions will not have to be made autonomously by expedition leaders
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
by our reckoning, earlier today Kerbin II rolled over 10,000,000km on the odometer, racing around the planet at an average speed of 2km/s. It has also completed over 2,000 orbits. Just under a month left to go in its mission - it will be de-orbited for recovery the week of 12/14
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
where is bit.ly/Kerbin-II *right now*? You can always find out any time with a visit to our Ops Tracker and even see where it will be three orbits from the current time. Just click on the orbital lines to bring up more detailed info for that time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
despite continuous science observation over the past week the spacecraft only sent down 655MB of data, and this is expected to continue to decrease over the remainder of the mission. Also, today we celebrate the mission's two month π« milestone! β¨π KERZZAH! πβ¨
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch crews are preparing to truck the Progeny MK6-I from the HAB to the launch pad, where it will be mounted and fueled for wet dress rehearsal. The Ops Tracker will carry updates for these events throughout the day - kerbalspace.agency/Tracker/trackeβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch preparation continues on schedule and tomorrow's launch time has been adjusted to allow for Kerbin II to be in contact with MSV Aldeny for telemetry data relay during the final phase of the mission. New L-0 is 18:40 UTC, re-entry is expected to occur ~18min after launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good SRB ignition and LIFT OFF - the 16th Progeny Mk6 Block I heads up towards space & the inner radiation belt carrying two student designed/built experiments to study it further. 1st stage will burn for 34s followed by 2nd stage coast until nose drops 1.5Β°
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
well that was an exciting minute! Rocket is still coasting up - flight computer has aborted ascent but controllers can choose to command it resume with ignition of the 3rd stage engine. Every second delayed however means a lower apokee as velocity bleeds off
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
decision was to abort ascent entirely - just getting to space isn't enough & rocket can't make it to inner rad belt on 3rd stage only. It would then also fall downrange beyond easy recovery from KSC and prior to easy recovery from MSV Aldeny. It's already on its way back down
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
acquisition of signal with Kerbin II here at KSC right on schedule. While we no longer need it to monitor the rocket's re-entry we can still at least use it to bounce a signal to MSV Aldeny in a few mins, let them know why they never saw it clear their horizon & to head back home
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the next Mk6-I has been pushed back to 12/8 to give the HAB time to inspect the 2nd stage booster closely for any issues. Launch is NET 19:04 UTC, likely to be adjusted slightly later to allow for Kerbin II to relay telemetry during re-entry
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Badlands expedition going well, here is a low-alt balloon being released near the center of what is now even more strongly believed to be a caldera. There doesn't appear to be any active vents or geysers but if gas is escaping into the air the instruments aboard will detect it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no photo this week from Kerbin II as mission planners saved fuel & worked to determine if we could boost its Ap up into the inner radiation belt. It's possible, and with the spacecraft operating so well with backup systems rdy would be nice to see how it handles the rad increase
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
getting up isn't all to consider tho: margin for de-orbit would be too small & likely not enough fuel will remain to lower Pe into the atmosphere, even if only a little to aerobrake. Coming back down from higher up will also stress the spacecraft & heat shield more than we'd like
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerbin II science returns continue to diminish as expected with only 492MB down-linked during this past week of continuous operation but in this early stage of exploration every *byte* of information is a wealth of potential new knowledge!
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
photo of the week from Kerbin II looking out over the Kongo River winding to the north, with its source centered on the image, where the research base is located. It currently reaches its highest latitude over the night side, so this was the best shot possible near the terminator
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although things remain very busy here at KSC & at KSA HQ in Umbarg as we move into the final 2 weeks of 2020 operations, only two things really require additional coverage in this penultimate 2020 Ops Summary. Check it out & enjoy your weekend! kerbalspace.agency/?p=11417
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Aldeny has departed from port in Umbarg to sail ~291km into the south Kerblantic for recovery operations. Seas down here can be rough more often than not so we're thankful that we can check via Kerbin II prior to launch to have the best chances at recovery
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Progeny Mk6-I is on its way out to the launch pad from the HAB for mounting, followed later today by fueling for wet dress rehearsal protocols in final preparation for launch readiness. Updates on its status will be carried by the Ops Tracker: ops.kerbalspace.agency/?vessel=progenβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch prep continuing on sched. Original launch time, decided by our 45min past sunrise rule, actually almost nearly perfectly coincides with a Kerbin II comm window. We will move launch up 2min (19:02 UTC) to give the re-entry ~18min into the mission more time inside the window
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
LIFT OFF! First stage SRB will provide up to 68kN of thrust for initial 5s of ascent before tapering off to reduce load and continue to do so for 30s then detach and 2nd stage will ignite after nose drops 1.5Β°. Rocket goes from 0-27m/s in just over 1s with a force of 4Gs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
sub-optimal 1st stage separation put a bit of wobble into the rocket that had to be checked by controllers to ensure stability before 2nd stage could be fired. This slight delay will impact overall apokee somewhat but bigger worry is rocket's precession causing additional drag
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
passing through apokee now, rocket will be coming down much earlier than expected and Kerbin II will not be in position to relay re-entry events. MSV Aldeny would have by now plotted its course and begun to move north to get closer to the new area it will be coming down
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
just over a min to re-entry, telemetry showing rocket's precession has laid it out pretty flat, which is worrisome but has helped more than hurt on some past missions so we just have to wait & see. Kerbin II not yet in position so we won't be able to follow re-entry events live
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
also if Kerbin II had been overhead during this early re-entry it wouldn't have mattered as rocket can't talk directly to it. It's used as a relay between KSC and MSV Aldeny, which has to receive the telemetry direct from the rocket
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we just concluded our first comm window with MSV Aldeny since it reached the projected splashdown area about 30mins ago. So far, no beacon detected and seas are much rougher as this area is apparently closer to a storm system. Next comm windows are 2355-0004 UTC & 0039-0049 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no news at previous comm checks, this most recent one also. By now main power would be dead but locator beacon has its own 10hr power source. Winds & currents could have carried payload a good distance in time it took the Aldeny to reach the area. Search continues
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
final check-in concluded with MSV Aldeny before a few hours comm gap and still no luck locating a signal. They have also been forced to only search the area NW, W and S of the last-known position due to rough seas in all other directions. Next comm window opens @ 05:15 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we gave it our all, but by now locator beacon battery would have expired. We can't know if rocket survived and is just floating out there somewhere on the vast ocean or broke up and is on the bottom of the sea or got swamped by the storm - such is the way things go sometimes :/
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN alert has confirmation that ROF-184(C), discovered back at the end of Oct, will indeed be making a very close potential impact near the southern observatory and communications outpost. While it's not likely to reach the ground intact, threat is still posed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
thankfully the early warning has given time for the observatory to suspend operations and isolate delicate equipment from any seismic shocks. The entire outpost has been evacuated already as well as a precaution even tho any impacts should be well to the northeast
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Take a good look at that thin blue line on the horizon. That's 70km of atmosphere and all that is protecting us from the harshness of space. Kerbin II, zooming around the planet up in orbit, continues to provide context for our fragile existence
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerbin II has allowed for reports on the ROF-184(C) encounter to already come in & the asteroid did break up on re-entry to make multiple impacts in the mountains NE of DSN/ATN South. No large fallout over the observatory, which is also well above tree line so no fire danger
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
A glimpse behind the curtain at just some of the work being done to prepare to return Kerbin II, hopefully intact and recoverable. Our main tool to assist with this shown in the image is the powerful bit.ly/KSPTOT software suite twitter.com/DKerman_KSA/stβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
entering its last week of data collection, and not even a full week at that, Kerbin II science data continues to diminish with only 342MB down-linked over the past week of continuous observations. Probe remains healthy and orbit remains stable
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
two Dhumla aircraft carrying crew and equipment have arrived at the Kongo base to prepare for recovery operations of Kerbin II, targeting Thursday. The airship stationed at the base will transport them the final leg to the touchdown area 250km to the southwest
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
preparations progressing well for return of Kerbin II tomorrow. We are targeting the circled area, which will give us two back-to-back opportunities if something goes wrong with the first de-orbit maneuver. Return scheduled for around 17:10 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
despite regular contact capability through Kerbin II, no news has been good news from the KB expedition out in the Badlands. Things are wrapping up with all 8 balloons successfully released & recovered. Team should be back home this weekend
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all science instruments on Kerbin II have now been switched off and the last bits of information from the HDD are being down-linked. Total mission data over 4.4GB, not a bad haul. Controllers now preparing to re-orient the spacecraft retrograde for the upcoming de-orbit maneuver
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerbin II is now locked retrograde via SAS & although movement was minimal, without RCS, it will be monitored on subsequent orbits to ensure trajectory remains on target. If all good, final commands for de-orbit & re-entry sequence will be uploaded ~16:20 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Aldeny departed earlier today to get into position, it left Umbarg back on Sunday to sail the ~1,802km to Arekibo. It is now heading 125km northeast in the event that Kerbin II comes up well short of its intended recovery zone over land
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
commands for de-orbit maneuver and re-entry have been successfully received & processed by the spacecraft during a pass over DSN Central. Kerbin II is on its final orbit! Review of the code used can be done at our AFCS repository: github.com/KSAMissionCtrlβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
having already whizzed completely around Kerbin, DSN Central once again has contact with Kerbin II as we are M-5min away from de-orbit. Lead Engineer Simon expressed slight concern over the fact that during the entire mission we never test-fired the cold gas engine...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
less than 1min to maneuver. Ops Tracker will not update during it. Eventually we will have it display "planned telemetry" to show what the spacecraft should be doing during a maneuver. It will carry status updates afterwards however, so do tune in - ops.kerbalspace.agency/?vessel=kerbinβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
maneuver ongoing! Will last 100s for 140m/s of Ξv. Good flow rates reported from the craft, which means its putting out 1kN of thrust & doppler shift confirms it is slowing as expected to drop perikee ~30km into the atmosphere
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're still processing new trajectory data but maneuver ended on schedule & Kerbin II is now re-orienting to point normal to be ready for separation of the service module prior to re-entry, which will kick it just a bit further northwards into the flat plains of the landing zone
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
trajectory update shows we are almost right on target - planned perikee was 32.47km and actual is 32.64km! Cold gas engine proved its hardiness, firing for the first and only time on this mission after 84 days of just sitting in the cold, harsh environment of space
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
LOS from DSN Central, spacecraft is now on its own for re-entry. We did confirm good orientation lock prior to signal drop, enough cold gas remained to assist with the maneuver as well. Main antenna should be retracted, tertiary activated to provide comms after re-entry
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerbin II should by now have passed through 100km ASL and decoupled from the service module, exposing the heat shield and starting to re-orient retrograde to point the heat shield along its line of travel. No more fuel for RCS thrusters, but reaction wheels are up to the task
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
re-entry should have begun for Kerbin II, traveling over 2km/s. RTG makes it top-heavy so it stays deployed and will act as a tail to keep the craft from being upset by aero forces if the reaction wheels cannot hold it steady. Maybe AOS in 5-7min?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we got a brief ping from Kerbin II!! It was long enough to send us confirmation it survived re-entry and pre-deployed chutes but then signal was lost, but not over horizon, so some malfunction? Chutes should still fully deploy on their own regardless of system/EC issues
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are coming up well short of our intended landing zone and even well short of land but MSV Aldeny would have already realized this by now and begun to head towards the splashdown zone 3-4hrs away. Recovery crew at Kongo are standing down from deployment
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with the Kerbin II mission coming to an end we can start closing out its ongoing bit.ly/KSARecords. Mission time (84+ days) and distance (15 million km+) still need to be verified after recovery but we can officially state the number of orbits as 3,009!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Aldeny should by now have arrived in the splashdown zone and begun searching for a sonar ping. Unfortunately the mass of the RTG would have sunk the vessel but given how likely a splashdown was despite our efforts the spacecraft was designed with this event in mind
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
even if MSV Aldeny locates a signal right away, still will be hours before it completes any recovery operation and sails back in radio range of Arekibo. Yes it is quite ironic how we are now once again forced to sit and await word since Kerbin II is no longer in orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
word from MSV Aldeny! Another good news/bad news mission result.
Good news: spacecraft was recovered from the surface of the ocean! KERZZAH!
Bad news: it was floating because the RTG was no longer attached
There is no worse news. We know the RTG can survive re-entry/impact
Good news: spacecraft was recovered from the surface of the ocean! KERZZAH!
Bad news: it was floating because the RTG was no longer attached
There is no worse news. We know the RTG can survive re-entry/impact
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
still, even with 100% confidence based on past mission testing that the RTG casing is intact, we can't just leave it sitting on the bottom of the ocean and will of course launch a full search and recovery mission shortly. It is outfitted with a sonar ping emitter for this purpose
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
from the condition of the spacecraft, it looks like the RTG may have stuck out from the re-entry heat tail cavity & altho the casing could handle that the extended support arms could not and melted/snapped at some point. EC dip in tlm data will tell us when
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
official bit.ly/KSARecords for Kerbin II have been set:
Longest Mission Time: 84d, 18h48m50s
Longest Mission Distance: 15,118,999.878km
spacecraft telemetry data was corrupted for some reason after spacecraft decoupling, so mission ends with LOS from Arekibo
Longest Mission Time: 84d, 18h48m50s
Longest Mission Distance: 15,118,999.878km
spacecraft telemetry data was corrupted for some reason after spacecraft decoupling, so mission ends with LOS from Arekibo
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
MSV Aldeny has been resupplied, outfitted with the proper equipment and has set sail from Arekibo to begin searching for the RTG on the ocean bottom. This could take days, or could take weeks. All depends on how well we've guesstimated where the RTG fell
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon missions were as numerous as last year and mission time was nearly doubled on average as surface expeditions became more far-flung & long-lasting. The successful use of orbital comms tested this year has everyone excited to really open up surface exploration in 2021
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our Automated Flight Control System has been updated to v1.2.0 after reviewing problems/needs from the Kerbin II mission. Very little changes needed, software is robust, stable and mission-proven! It's also completely open-source - github.com/KSAMissionCtrlβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the year may be done but the week is not and we still have one more aspect of our 2020 operations to review - orbital! For the first time we get to look at some stats from missions that circled the planet multiple times, something we plan to do a lot more often in 2021 π«
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
and a look at the various trajectories the vessels took. With the loss of power & loss of position data the Kerbin I Viklun stage decay is a best-guess. Also the Kerbin II Viklun stage was de-orbited in a similar manner to that depicted for Kerbin II, both shared the same orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Aldeny has relaunched from port at Arekibo after resupplying for two days to continue the search for Kerbin II's RTG. Our initial impact estimates could have been incorrect if the probe's power loss did not coincide with the loss of the RTG (cabling could have gone first)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we know it couldn't have fallen off prior to the probe losing power so the Aldeny at least has a direction in which to move the search from the original impact zone and will start to follow the ground track east from that position & listen for ping of locator beacon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're still waiting on the Ascension team to finish up work on post-mission analysis for Kerbin III but some encouraging news to be released already is that the error that caused the probe to undershoot its recovery zone has been found and is easy to correct for future missions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the fault is all ours in not being careful using a program called *Launch* Vehicle Designer for simulating returning spacecraft. Some default settings pertaining to ascent were not properly removed. When setup correctly, the sim shows a chute deployment just 18km off actual!
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 <1Β° 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 II mission analysis has been published: kerbalspace.agency/?p=11492 things are on track for commsat deployment later this year as long as the upcoming Mk3 launch goes well. RTG search remains underway - we'll have an update next week as MSV Aldeny can't stay out much longer
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
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!
