All operations and activities are reported on daily, and these highlights are a great way to catch up on the latest news for the Kerbal Space Agency as well as what’s going on around the Space Center and even events around Kerbin pertaining to the KSC and KSA. Alternately you can click the link below to reverse the order of the reports and start from the very beginning in 2016 to recap all the major events that have occurred since. Clicking on the bookmark icon will save your spot so you can return at any time to pick up where you left off.
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've 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
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
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
onboard vid shows the pitch oscillations during the Ascension Mk3's ascent were way worse than we imagined - the *entire rocket flexed* π± 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
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
one of the things that led to the win was research done by KSA scientists to prove that asteroids contain mineral wealth which could greatly alleviate the need for surface mining. We are committed to working on a system of space resource gathering for deployment later this decade
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here we can say we are actually working closely with Monolithic followers to protect Kerbin's pristine environment that developed after the asteroid strike. A major victory was won today in court with a 5-year moratorium established against surface mining
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the KSA has been involved for the past two years, led by a legal team put together by Lead Scientist Cheranne, in helping environmentalists to fight against companies looking to incorporate with the purpose of mining the surface of Kerbin to extract raw materials
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
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
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
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
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 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
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
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
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
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
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
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 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
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
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
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
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
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
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
[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
[L-5m] Wx? GO! Range? GO! Tracking? GO! Payload? GO! Flight? GO! Ops Director @DKerman_KSA has given permission to launch - π GO ASCENSION! GO KERBIN III! π FTS internal, service towers unlocked for retraction at terminal count when AFCS startup begins
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-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
[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-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-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
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-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
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-5)
2/13
#2π08:55:24 π 11:05:45 !!π!!
#3π14:56:15 π 17:06:36
#4π20:57:06 π 23:07:27
2/14
#1π02:57:57 π 05:08:18
@ KSC (UTC-5)
2/13
#2π08:55:24 π 11:05:45 !!π!!
#3π14:56:15 π 17:06:36
#4π20:57:06 π 23:07:27
2/14
#1π02:57:57 π 05:08:18
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
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
[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
field scientists have made off with >50kg of meteorites from the crater formed last week. These rocks are incredibly valuable in that they contain material from the birth of the kerbolar system, allowing us to peer into the past & attempt to solve the riddles of how things formed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
#DYK that until today, Plock wasn't actually the furthest known planet in the kerbolar system? The honor has now been transferred to it from Neidon. Could both lose a chance at this record someday? Scopes are always hunting for new large bodies in the outer system...
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
[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
[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-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
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
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
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
[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
[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
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-5)
2/11
#2π08:48:36 π 10:58:57 !!π!!
#3π14:49:27 π 16:59:48
#4π20:50:18 π 23:00:39
2/12
#1π02:51:09 π 05:01:30
@ KSC (UTC-5)
2/11
#2π08:48:36 π 10:58:57 !!π!!
#3π14:49:27 π 16:59:48
#4π20:50:18 π 23:00:39
2/12
#1π02:51:09 π 05:01:30
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
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
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
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
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
scientists are cautiously moving into the impact crater discovered earlier this week after monitoring instruments have failed to pick up any indication of hazardous environment. They will work to collect meteorite fragments and take note of the effects the impact had
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
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
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
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
looking south at 1st sunset earlier today and the sky is lighter down there because the shadow of Mun is currently passing over KSC while the sun is in the process of disappearing over the western horizon. Credit to Spc Bob, who couldn't fall asleep
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
to be clear: scientists still do not know what makes some asteroids glow so if the asteroid did contain any such material they may not actually be hazardous - but since no one knows it is of course best to assume that they are and act accordingly
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a decent-sized ~18m crater is present in the area, burned & flattened vegetation all around but impact is localized. They are returning tomorrow to begin setting up monitoring equipment. Since ATN did not see this rock coming (yikes it was close!) unknown if it was glowing or not
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
earlier today @ 15:13 UTC seismometers here and in Umbarg picked up the signature of a meteorite slamming into the ground. A team was deployed in an airship to check a field station in the plains to the north and attempt to triangulate the location. They have just reported back
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all the major components are now in place with the arrival of the payload stage from our Umbarg HQ. The Progeny Mk8 remains on schedule to be fully integrated for launch later this month on 2/25. HAB now gearing up for some major plumbing work to get those engines on...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
13 known asteroids encountered our SOI last month with 1 impact. 2020 had everyone hopeful the amount of monthly encounters was trending downwards but it's looking like the asteroid threat is not abating anytime soon. Our commitment to future protection remains a key goal
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
while any new flare up between the airship and aircraft industries will no longer directly affect us, we stand with C7 and the ASA, will help fight for better safety regulations to be re-established. We are saddened to see such squabbling result in the loss of life π
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
against the ASA's advisement, during the C7/Airship Baron settlement in 2019 restrictions on pilot licensing were loosened. They are blaming Assembly for letting those gov't members with financial ties to the airship industry work to make fixed-wing flight less safe
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
sad news out of Sheltered Rock - a Deuce commuter flight crashed on landing, killing all 6 crew and passengers. To date this is the deadliest fixed wing aviation accident. This is already the 3rd aircraft crash this year and Air Safety Administration is calling foul
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
final testing of the full 7-engine cluster for the Progeny M8 lift stage is ongoing today and things are looking good as you can see! After static fire concludes they will be moved back to the VAB for post-fire testing & refurbishment before flight late next month
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
obviously planetary scientists crave more images like these but limited scope time has kept them wanting as the majority hunt for mysteries deep in the cosmos. We will give them plenty to do though once the Extremis program gets to work exploring all the worlds in the system!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the 10m scope at ATN Central took its eye off deep space to capture the highest-res img of the Sarnus system ever, taken during the Great Opposition that is now underway. Sarnus is not only closest to us but near perikelion as well. Won't be this close again until 2070
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
kerzzah! β¨π₯ 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
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
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 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
there are historical records of Great Comets, just sky sightings before orbital mechanics were understood, that will be used to attempt to determine if this one has visited us before. For now it is named Catger-Kimmin after its co-discoverers
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
almost all comets sport tails (some are "dead"), but usually you need a telescope to see them. Great Comets fall into the inner system every few decades and this is the first since the ATN began to keep records. It has a period of 683 years so it's likely a first sighting
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomical community is abuzz with latest news from the ATN that they have discovered a new long-period comet which could potentially be naked-eye visible. It's got no tail yet but so bright it's either very large or very icy or best-case scenario somewhere in between
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the upper Progeny Mk8 Mantis stage that was shown testing last year at Luciole's facility has arrived at KSC via the cargo rail and is on its way to the HAB to be integrated with its flight hardware - RCS, reaction wheels, avionics, batteries, etc. for launch next month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a full Mun was captured over KSC early today after 1st sunset hanging out with Jool & Sarnus while Minmus lingers above. It is red as it passes through Kerbin's shadow and the light bends through our atmosphere onto it. It later exited Kerbin's umbra & occulted Sarnus for 18min
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mk1-B capsule testing has concluded and it is now in the VAB for a final structural check. After that careful inspection it will get stripped down on the inside and outfitted with all the sensors and equipment needed for its sub-orbital test flight in March
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
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
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
given that the Mk6 came down at night yesterday over shipping lanes we hoped someone saw it and took a photo but we checked with ships pulling into ports throughout yesterday and today with no luck. We did not expect it to come down over the Kerblantic, so sent out no notice :/
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
by coincidence the MK8 has 8 engines, the most of any launch vehicle so far. Its launch base fits perfectly on the Mobile Launch Platform with only minor modifications. It will be constructed in the HAB then mounted for launch in the VAB
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
lacking fins to steer, the rocket will be guided by angling the nozzles of its engines, a technique known as thrust vector control (TVC). The 7 engines at the bottom can maneuver the vehicle along all three axis but the single engine up top still needs RCS for roll control
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with retirement of the Mk6 comes the official debut of the Progeny Mk8 in partnership with Luciole Space Systems! Not as crude or wobbly as a finned rocket, an elegant launch vehicle for a more civilized age. Full res: flickr.com/gp/kerbal_spacβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the bit.ly/Progeny_Mk6 is now officially retired after 3 years of service - our longest-working rocket so far. It has an overall success rate of 71% across 21 missions (avg overall success rate is 62% so not bad). The time has come to move fully away from unguided rockets
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
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
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
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
rad levels continue to hold steady, rocket continues regular 1min check-ins. Once it detects a large increase it will remain awake for the belt transit. Rocket is >750km tho and no models of the belts predict that the inner one should be this far out or further, even on nite side
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
rocket is coasting, has begun its hibernation sequence. It will wake up to check its surroundings & report back to us every min. 805km apokee means it will not reach the outer radiation belt but it will get almost fully through the inner belt to satisfy mission objectives
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
overall, flight nominal with clean staging. Rocket as expected is not moving as fast as previous flights although how much apokee loss this translates to depends on more than just speed given it is unguided and can pitch/roll/yaw to various degrees in addition to winds
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
[T-2m] AFCS has taken over control of the rocket, ground cables have been pulled to leave the vehicle on internal power and RF comms, both of which will be checked over the next min. Excitement on the faces of the students in LC whose projects are about to be launched a 2nd time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
however we do allow registered & approved private aircraft to fly in and park on the public tarmac, from where they can still get a great view and experience the launch. Some actually just landed in the last hour - Rwy 03/21 is able to stay open during launch operations https://t.co/SxT9HX3UGK
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
night launches like this used to attract a fair amount of air traffic but with the extended restricted airspace around KSC after the 2019 aircraft attack it's not possible to circle close enough out to the west to really get a good view anymore twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] Range Safety Officer has closed off access to the pad and surrounding airspace/waters. Any incursion will produce a countdown hold. Visitors leaving designated areas will not immediately hold the count but will be immediately escorted off the premises
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
photo from the pad crew a few minutes ago before they all drove off, sun just beginning to set behind the VAB into hazy skies. Weather was actually pretty crummy earlier today and we are glad to see it improving as forecast. Minmus & Mun are also hanging out together up above
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
one of the reasons we haven't had to deal with many technical holds during our launches is in fact the ability to work directly on the rocket throughout the entire preflight checkout sequence and solve problems quickly to not have to extend the countdown
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a common misunderstanding about the QRT: they are not there to prevent the rocket from catching fire or anything like that. If some issue needs physical handling or looking over, they can get to the rocket quickly to address the problem but also back to shelter fast if needed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h10m] pre-flight going good, no issues being worked. Preparing now to check out the 7 engines that will take the rocket up into space. Quick Response Team sheltering in the nearby bunker as rest of crew clears pad. 7 engines is the most we've had on any rocket - until the Mk8
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h25m] launch team Bravo is assembling in Launch Control for Flight Director Lanalye to conduct the final mission briefing. Slight modification to ascent profile with no coast between stage 1 and 2 to maintain velocity as payload is heaviest yet flown on the Mk6-II
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-5)
1/20
#2π07:33:50 π 09:44:16
#3π13:34:41 !!π!! π 15:45:07
#4π19:35:32 π 21:45:58
1/21
#1π01:36:23 π 03:46:49
@ KSC (UTC-5)
1/20
#2π07:33:50 π 09:44:16
#3π13:34:41 !!π!! π 15:45:07
#4π19:35:32 π 21:45:58
1/21
#1π01:36:23 π 03:46:49
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all launch readiness reports have been submitted, reviewed & approved by @DKerman_KSA so we are GO for tomorrow's mission! Forecast is favorable, launch prep timeline will kick off at 15:15 UTC. Don't forget it's planned to be a night launch!!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Mk6-II is all loaded up & secure, rdy for the trip out to the pad from the HAB. It'll be hooked up to ground power/comms then filled with liquid propellants for a full system check. bit.ly/Ops_Tracker will carry updates on its progress as we work toward launch readiness
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
anyone notice the change to the Progenitor program patch? We've offset Kerbin to show it from the greater heights the program can now achieve & a starry background helps to contrast the dark color of the launch vehicles. Basic design remains of course - upwards!!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
3rd sunrise earlier today sported a close meetup (appulse) of Moho & Duna, with Eve also hanging out below. As close as they appear, zooming in would resolve them at a distance apart that is further than the apparent size of Minmus (whose sliver is to the upper right of the pair)
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_spacβ¦). There are some changes to the original design posted late last year, additional images have more information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
yesterday while Mun was high in the daylit sky ZDO-325(C) passed through its SOI along this projected trajectory. Observations since then have confirmed the asteroid is on the predicted escape trajectory out of the Kerbin system and was not captured
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
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
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
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
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
MSV Tongjess & her crew are happy to once again assist our program, will take the astronauts & the Mk1-B capsule out to sea for recovery trials. This was done last year, but not with an occupied capsule. Astronauts likewise have trained capsule egress, but not actually at sea
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the miss due to Kerbin's rotation is only one of 9 known instances over the past 4 years where KSC could have been seriously affected by an impact within 50km, as depicted by the image released in 2019. 250km is the estimated range of effect for a large Class-E impact
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good news from ATN is detection rates have continued to improve, up to 72% as opposed to 56% last year. Bad news is that we still missed a big one that shares a similar latitude to KSC. So if Kerbin's rotation rate had been different, it could have fallen right on top of us!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
All impacts from 2020, including those on land that were picked up via seismic sensors. Circle size = relative magnitude but do not always directly correlate to asteroid size, as a larger asteroid could break up to cause less of an impact than a smaller one that remains intact
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ZDO-325(C) entered our SOI earlier today and ATN have confirmed the asteroid is another space rock headed for a Mun intercept. After the encounter later this week it will get kicked out into a higher orbit with a gravity assist and will not be captured
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
report from Lead Engineer Simon on the launchpad inspection after last month's fuel truck explosion shows that damage was indeed minimal and will be repaired by the end of the month. Progeny Mk6 launch base only needs its support rails replaced, with spares on hand
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
of the 264 images we put up last year we've managed to whittle down to 52 of our favorites to depict the year that was 2020. You can peruse them all in this flickr album: flickr.com/photos/kerbal_β¦
attached below are our 4 pivotal moments, captions have details
attached below are our 4 pivotal moments, captions have details
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
we have new parts on order to allow a rebuild of the lower stages and will be attempting another launch of the Mk6-II this month to kick off our Q1 ops. Since the rocket never actually launched it will retain the same mission number, Ops Tracker updated: ops.kerbalspace.agency
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with all the additional scopes that have come online over the past two years more time will be available in 2021 for peering deeper into the outer system while still being able to maintain vigilance over the still substantial remaining NKO population yet to be detected
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN has released its annual breakdown of our known asteroid population and Main Belt asteroids have finally knocked NKOs completely off the mass & size charts, which is a good sign that we have spotted the majority of the asteroids threatening Kerbin
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a new batch of interns on 4mo rotation have completed their campus orientation and have been assigned to departments working under Lead Scientist Cheranne, Head of R&D Wernher von Kerman and Lead Engineer Simon. We are proud to be fostering the next gen space industry employees
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
SHB-752(A)'s Mun encounter was tracked by ATN Central late yesterday and its updated course fits to predictions so it will indeed not become a captured moonlet. Unfortunate to see, as a new moonlet would be nice but also nice to see that trajectory analysis was spot-on
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
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 thought our photo of Eve & Mun crossing paths was good but astrophotographer Thileg Kerman has managed to capture not only a wandering Eve but Minmus as well. To do so he actually had to position himself for everything to line up properly for a double occultation back on 1/3
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all our crew returned to duty yesterday, today they get right back into general training with the Mk1-B capsule & simulator as well as physical regimen, medical testing & centrifuge runs. These activities will be carried out over the next 2-3 months before mission training begins
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
last month was the busiest of the year with 13 known encounters. Average per month was 9 compared to 12 in 2019, a number we hope will continue to trend downwards as surface activity trends upwards. With 7 already spotted heading for our SOI in Jan, 2021 not off to a good start
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
two possible additions are an air traffic control tower if commercial aircraft increases and a larger launch/mission control building if we succeed at increasing our number of long-term orbital missions, which won't all be able operate out of the Tracking Station
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
already another ATN dispatch, this one for SHB-752(A), which entered our SOI at the start of today and after passing us by at no closer than 0.35 Munar Distance it will encounter Mun on its outbound travel, which will brake the asteroid but unfortunately not enough for a capture
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
December may have ended more quietly than expected but Jan is already off to a running start with FMN-294(C) entering our SOI earlier today according to this latest ATN dispatch, which has it coming no closer than 2.71 Munar Distance
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
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
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
even though overall launch count was down from last year, the missions were much more complex, including our first ever orbital missions launched from the Ascension Mk2 and getting the rest of our crew up into space via the Mk1. Lots of failures means we learned a lot as well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although we did have a shutdown of the rocketry programs early this year, there was no shutdown of the entire Agency at any point and we at least got off one mission each month in 2020, continuing the streak that went through 2019 as well. Planning to keep it alive in 2021!
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
we got in a few flights this year before the Genesis program was shuttered. Fixed-wing aircraft development remains alive with C7 Aerospace Division and missions like those previously flown by Cdr Val & Cpt Jeb are now handled by a growing pool of commercial aviators
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the first engine to be successfully flown twice now has its spot of honor in our rocket garden. This is of course the good side - the other side has a lot of missing pieces that were removed for analysis to aid in future designs & improve re-usability. Bonus Mun/Minmus appulse!
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
last year our crew logged a combined 30 missions, down from 56 the year before - such is the amount of time that has needed to be put into training for space flight! With Genesis shut down, all crew are now focused solely on orbital flight in 2021. Lots more training to go...
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
Bombed by explosives flung from we know not what. Theyβve used ranged weapons in past encounters as well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Presider has already stated there will not be any escalation and that the gov't and religious leaders will convene another council to discuss whether the lost tribe should be left alone as it seems they wish or presents a possible threat that needs dealing with
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
their camp, a good distance from the temple, was effectively shelled from the mountains above. Incoming fire was directed only around the temporary structures, all wounds were from shrapnel as everyone rushed to the airships, which did not come under attack
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've just got word from the Kongo that the lost tribe expedition returned with no deaths but many wounded after retreating from a "vicious onslaught" that caught them completely by surprise and gave them no chance to make any sort of actual contact
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
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
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
short-period comet discoveries
2017: 54
2018: 74
2019: 62
2020: 141 (and counting)
The massive increase this year was due to ATN South and North entering full operation to give us more coverage of the skies where these highly-inclined objects tend to reside
2017: 54
2018: 74
2019: 62
2020: 141 (and counting)
The massive increase this year was due to ATN South and North entering full operation to give us more coverage of the skies where these highly-inclined objects tend to reside
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
progress on getting the foundations laid out for our first surface colony Narskeim are proceeding surprisingly well in collaboration with the Monolithic oversight committee and the project could be back on schedule by mid-2021. The port is expected to open first in late 2021
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have fired the 3 Skeeter engines successfully in a tight cluster. Two more will be arriving at the end of the month for testing to resume with 5 engines in January. So far these 3 engines have been fired 46 times, making this our most rigorous engine test campaign to date twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
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
it's been 2 weeks of waiting and searching but the lost tribe expedition reports they have found several entrances to caverns that appear to have seen frequent and recent use. Still no contact whatsoever although the team is pretty sure their presence is known
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we'd be in final countdown now if the Progeny Mk6-II were still launching. Kerbin II passed north of KSC (yellow dot) about an hour ago and sent down this pic, showing us near the center of a high-pressure system. what a shame to miss out on such nice weather!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
initial full inspection of ATN/DSN South has been completed and the observatory & comms dish are not damaged. Station staff are moving back in this week. Astronomers there will have to deal with poor seeing for a few more days as particles still linger in atmosphere
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
while this is of course an unfortunate end to an unfortunate string of events to close out 2020, we are happy that no one was injured and 2 of the missions still have payloads that can have another chance to head to space in 2021 - maybe even aboard a Progeny Mk8 instead!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
could have been worse, but thanks to another safety protocol of not carrying more fuel than needed in the tanker truck, explosion was not large. Still, full inspection of the pad & towers will be undertaken over the operational break. Progeny Mk6 launch base as well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good news: GSE was at fault, rocket was not cause of the explosion (RIP tanker truck). Bad news: rocket is still heavily damaged and will not be able to fly this week before yearly operations come to a close. Launch will need to be postponed until early next year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
emergency crews have been dispatched & are at the launch pad. There was an issue during tanking resulting in an explosion. Fire is under control, no crew were on the pad at the time as per our safety protocols. We'll update when we know more about the condition of the rocket
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rollout & mounting of the Progeny Mk6-II were completed earlier today without issue, we are now tanking up the 3rd stage with liquid fuels to prepare for wet dress rehearsal as launch readiness checks continue. Definitely hoping for better weather tomorrow, but it does look nice
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
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
DGG-325(C) was discovered earlier today already transiting the system, just another reminder that there are still some out there that we don't catch early, or not at all. Thankfully this one poses no threat (this time at least), coming no closer than 4.68 Munar Distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch pad was reconfigured for a direct east launch at the end of last week and sunrise is adorned with the 4 brightest planets. Get to the surface soon though, Moho has already reached greatest elongation and begun to set, will be gone from the dawn sky in just a few days
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we used to tweet so much about the weather around KSC in the past, but over time we've just become more used to dealing with it while operating on the surface. Plenty of wind, rain and storms sweep by on a regular basis - obviously those are not times anyone likes to take photos
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
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!! πβ¨
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 Ξv needed to barely break free of Kerbin's influence
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
of course, even if it does happen to be discovered again we doubt the conspiracy theorists will believe the reports and will maintain it was an alien vessel monitoring our planet that simply departed for reasons unknown to places unknown and OMG watch out the invasion is coming!!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers have given up looking for Chikelu in orbit and are as sure as they can be it's no longer there. All new asteroid discoveries by the ATN will be checked against possible ejection orbits - it's possible we will eventually rediscover it
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
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
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
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
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
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
data shows the rocket was definitely not well-oriented for re-entry and likely failed to hold together during the high Gs and pressures. This hasn't always led to total loss of the rocket but in this case locating any intact pieces was not successful
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
telemetry data from yesterday's flight up to plasma blackout is now available. Once again we apologize to the students/mentors affected by the mission failure, even worse this time as they have no hope of a reflight :/ docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Aldeny was told to suspend search ops & return to port. Altho we had data xmit during spaceflight, majority of science was to be recovered with the rocket so we have to chalk this mission up as a failure. Hopefully final mission next week can close out 2020 with success!
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
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
the Aldeny is ~80km away from the new recovery area and will not be on station to begin search & recovery operations for another ~3-4hrs. In the meantime post-launch operations here at KSC well underway while everyone hopes for the best. Fingers crossed!!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
news from MSV Aldeny not great - rocket signal was not picked up again after plasma blackout. Only hope is that rocket would have been *just* above the horizon around time of plasma blackout ending and could have dropped below before signal received by the Aldeny
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket should now be under chute descending gently towards the water, we still have ~5min before we can make contact with MSV Aldeny and find out what telemetry data they received. Tracking Station confirmed 1st & 2nd stages impacted downrange within ascent corridor as planned
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
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
good news is we reached space, better news is that there will be enough time spent in space to satisfy the needs of the payload instruments - barely! You can continue to view the rocket's position update in the Ops Tracker as it coasts through its sub-orbital arc
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
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
[L-5m] all stations GO in final general polling, @DKerman_KSA has given launch permission and made sure the students/mentors here in launch control are ready to head up onto the launch control roof for the best view as their payloads shoot off into space
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] we just had a comm pass with MSV Aldeny: captain reports on station, sea conditions are a bit rough but within recovery limits, they are standing by. RSO has confirmed range is clear, rocket is now ARMED, Flight Termination System is ACTIVE. Safety perimeter established
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] 3rd sunrise approaches. Wx remains green, winds are encroaching on our constraints but not gusting. Final countdown sequence is GO - any hold longer than 5min will delay the launch, rolling back the clock to this point until next Kerbin II comm window after 4th sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
reminder to all visitors coming to see the launch today that extra security measures are in place, we apologize for any inconvenience & make sure you arrive early. This is due to protests over the search for the exiled/lost tribe, apparently we share blame for that somehow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket could also launch north to avoid inner radiation belt (science payload requirement) but coming down over land is too iffy when dealing with an unguided rocket and we run the risk of chute failure if it needs to deploy higher and sooner due to mountainous terrain
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h10m] FD Lanalye has her launch team assembled for final briefing, rocket is a few kilos heavier than #4 which launched on this trajectory following 150Β° azimuth back in 2018 but we still expect a similar profile with an apokee of ~470km & total mission time ~20min
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-5)
12/8
#2π 07:17:56 π11:08:26
#3π 13:18:47 !!π!! π17:09:17
#4π 19:19:38 π23:10:08
12/9
#1π 01:20:29 π05:10:59
@ KSC (UTC-5)
12/8
#2π 07:17:56 π11:08:26
#3π 13:18:47 !!π!! π17:09:17
#4π 19:19:38 π23:10:08
12/9
#1π 01:20:29 π05:10:59
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we thought we had a handle on wind impact based on data from past flights but apparently we didn't do enough research because what we thought was negligible turned out to be anything but as you can see on this comparison with the identical Mk6-I mission launched last year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
final reports on launch readiness submitted by Lead Engineer Simon & Flight Director Lanalye have been reviewed & approved by Ops Director @DKerman_KSA - we are GO FOR LAUNCH attempt tomorrow. Wind constraints tightened, forecast 40% favorable but winds tough to predict still
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
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
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the flag inside the recovery zone is the splashdown location of bit.ly/Mk6-I_4 - part of the original series of launches that searched out the extent of the inner radiation belt. It did not encounter any increased radiation so the same ascent profile is being used
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
of course the new knowledge also raises concerns regarding such events and the impact they may have on spacecraft and even surface colonies - we won't know more until a similar event occurs or until we get more instruments observing the sun, both on the ground & in space
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
#OTD 2017 we were still mystified by this occurrence but now we have a better understanding thanks to the discovery of the radiation belts and how they interact with our atmosphere in conjunction with the kerbolar wind as a result of activity on the surface of our sun
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've had plenty of images of Mun and Minmus in the sky next to each other but here's something a little different as the *shadow* of Mun passes by Minmus during a kerbolar eclipse over KSC just under an hour ago
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
why is an Eve/Mun occult rare? You need to be at the right place on Kerbin at sunrise for the two to meet before it gets too bright. Eve has to be far enough from the sun to be visible earlier before dawn & its inclined orbit means the two can often just miss completely
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
about as elusive as catching Gilly's shadow on Eve has been trying to catch Mun occult Eve, but it was finally done by Val and Bob - from KSC no less! The magnified version has been cropped and enlarged 200x. Both are tinged red, low on the horizon just before dawn
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we wish Tedman, a former KSA Flight Officer, the happiest of days today on his 32nd birthday! He plans to spend it mostly in the air, of course. ππ KERZZAH Tedman! π you can learn more about his service history with us on our Ops Tracker: ops.kerbalspace.agency/?crew=ted
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 75Β° will be excluded
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
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
Mk1-B capsule has undergone recovery trials while already on the ground/water, now it's time to drop it out the back of a Dhumla and test actual chute deployment and landing/splashdown. This is done late in testing since it runs the highest risk of damaging the capsule
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
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
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
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
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
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
the expedition in search of the lost/exiled tribe have stumbled across a temple built within the past 200 years and visited recently. They will be setting up base camp here in hopes contact can be made while smaller teams continue to actively search out any nearby caverns
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although yet to enter full service, the new telescope at the Kongo River Base was the only one positioned to capture Sarnus & Duna at appulse over the past weekend. This scope, expected to start science observations next month, will cover a previously empty part of the night sky
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
confirmation from the recovery ship that the 3rd stage splashed down intact, payload still sealed! This means with some refurbishment after the salt water immersion it could fly again without having to buy a whole new rocket. Not this year though, but early next yr a possibility
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
post-launch ops are wrapping up & we have profusely apologized to the student/mentor team for the loss of their mission. Although fault may or may not be directly from us, we still take responsibility. The payload instruments could still be recoverable with 3rd stage however
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
recovery boat is on its way, should be at the splashdown area in ~2hrs with mild sea swells. While we would also like to recover the second stage, even from the bottom of the ocean, radar tracking showed it impacting at 227m/s so there's not really much of anything to recover
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
we are cutting telemetry at full chute deploy as signal will likely be lost soon anyways - rocket is juuuust above the horizon. Good to know however that it will be coming down intact! Our small recovery ship is on the way down to be put into the water & head out
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
full chute deployment coming up - as the rocket fell valves were opened so tanks could be drained of LF/O as otherwise the extra mass could cause too much stress on the chute when it opens fully from its current reefed state
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
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
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
[L-5m] final polling complete and all stations are GO for launch! Here in launch control to watch are the students and mentors that built the experiments flying on this rocket. Ops Director @DKerman_KSA shook all their hands after granting FD Lanalye final launch permission
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] RSO confirms range is clear, rocket is now ARMED for ignition with flight termination system ACTIVE. While the Progeny blast radius is really 300m, the 500m safety radius is now standard for any rockets launched from this pad
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] Final countdown! Updated weather forecast has us still GO for launch, altho winds are picking up a bit more than expected. With the rocket unguided, getting pushed off course is a real possibility. Winds will continue to be monitored closely up to launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h45m] weather update shows conditions will remain favorable for launch later today & according to recent KWS Deuce flight storm out to sea is veering away from recovery zone so we have a GO to begin prepping the rocket and the launch base for action
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch day! Here is a view from the pad taken just minutes ago. The clouds off in the distance are expected to roll in next day cycle but should not be high enough to pose a threat during ascent. The rocket remains fueled and ready for preflight checks
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-5)
11/25
#2π10:24:15
#3π 12:34:35 !!π!! π16:25:06
#4π 18:35:26 π22:25:57
11/26
#1π 00:36:17 π04:26:48
#2π 06:37:08
@ KSC (UTC-5)
11/25
#2π10:24:15
#3π 12:34:35 !!π!! π16:25:06
#4π 18:35:26 π22:25:57
11/26
#1π 00:36:17 π04:26:48
#2π 06:37:08
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all launch readiness reviews have been submitted, Ops Director @DKerman_KSA has given them full review & approval - we are GO FOR LAUNCH tomorrow! Pre-launch ops will begin @ 15:00 UTC and lead up to the start of the 8min optimal launch window. Weather forecast 90% favorable
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Progeny Mk8 team is finally getting consistent firing on all 3 engines for full burn duration of 1m12s (with 7 engines). Now that the plumbing is worked out, time to start moving them closer together to see how the plume interaction and heat affect the engines
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
support arms for the Mk7-B have been stored away and the Mk6 launch stand brought out of storage and setup on the launch pad, accessible this year. Last year launches were from the north field as the pad as still being repaired from the Deuce attack in October
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
with the completion of the KSC's commercial airport expansion, the Center has also grown in on-site staff needs and the Support Village will begin to expand as well in 2021 to accommodate more kerbs living here on the surface - something that still remains a privilege!
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
Horizontal Assembly Building, the new home of the Progenitor program, is finally starting to look busy now that they have three rockets to finish assembling over the next month. Next week's Mk6-I is almost ready for vertical stack & load checks tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the 0.35m aerospike engine developed by USI was also able to put out 12kN thrust, which shows how promising the tech is and why Luciole has bought USI and all its research so it can continue to work on developing a 0.625m version - no idea when or if that will succeed yet however
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the 0.625m vacuum engine that will allow the Progeny Mk8 to insert itself & its payload into orbit is now beginning tests at Luciole. These are functional tests only - note the under-expanded plume. In space it is expected to perform at 12kN of thrust
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
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
latest ATN bulletin has LUF-323(E) just now entering our SOI with a near miss over our atmosphere, as close as 0.014 Munar Distance. Had it dipped down below 70km it would have likely been captured into a decaying trajectory leading to an eventual impact. Close one!
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
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
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
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
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
our retired Flight Officer bit.ly/Tedman_Kerman has been re-certified by the Air Safety Administration - KERZZAH! many congrats to him on his long 1.5yr+ road back to flight. He remained an instructor but can now also checkride his students & accept civilian air contracts
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
3 Skeeter engines have arrived to begin cluster testing out on the static stand next week. They will start out widely-spaced so they don't impinge on each other & we can just assess any problems with fuel delivery to multiple engines twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
another long day of training wraps up for our crew, who have been busy familiarizing themselves with the Mk1-B capsule's new control layouts in the simulator while continuing to test the actual prototype under various emergency egress situations after landing/splashdown
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
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
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
the Ascension Mk3 is looking π€© 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_spacβ¦
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
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
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
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
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
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
a great relief that October only had 10 known asteroids when we started the month already knowing about 8. November is looking much better with only 4 known encounters to start off the month (counting today's) but that probably means we're in for like 15 right? Duck and cover!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
The western sky just after 3rd sunset over the Rocket Garden on the main KSC lawn is dominated by three of the brightest planets Eve, Jool and Sarnus (the fourth being Moho, currently to the east at sunrise). You almost miss relatively dim Duna between Eve and Jool
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
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
although C7's jet program continues to progress towards test flights in 2021, legislation has just killed its attempt at a rotary wing program. The airship Barons saw the concept as an even more direct-threat than fixed wing aircraft and have attacked it relentlessly this past yr
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
take a ride with the final Progeny Mk7-B up to 25km. Booster cam records at low FPS so it gets choppy from those views but the initial launch from the tower cam gives a good sense of the rocket's speed coming off the pad youtube.com/watch?v=MAPwb6β¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
congrats to the Progenitor team at being the first program to launch over 50 rockets! The current tally is 53 although we only have launch photos for 50 since the early Mk1 launches were rather repetitive and not all photographed & the Mk1-B air launch not included in collage
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
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
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
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
today's transit of Moho across the sun lasted 8.5 hours as you can see from this composite track showing 1hr intervals between positions Next transit will not occur until mid-2021 on the 31st of July. Moho will be visible again in the sky at dawn in the next few days
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
before deciding to set up shop at the new Kravass Regional Airport, C7 Aerospace Division considered completing their island facility but the logistics of supporting it offshore and also being secondary to KSC flight/launch ops nearby changed their minds twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
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
because the rocket was still pitching over at MECO, it retained a slight nose down rotation that was only partially cancelled out by deploying the Bot, so eventually yesterday we were able to see over the size adapter and spot it drifting off into the distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
what can be learned from telemetry data? Here's an example from just a simple plot of the rocket's battery levels recorded over the length of the mission. Lots of insights to be gained! We expect full analysis of this & 3rd flight to be published in November
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
full flight telemetry for yesterday's mission along with the brief re-entry of the Bot probe has been published for anyone looking to dig into more details about what the rocket was up to during its time heading to space and back: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/dβ¦
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
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
we have word the RTG casing has been recovered & nearby the impact location of the rocket was also found - nothing salvageable survived. An extensive search will continue through tomorrow to ensure any pieces of the Bot probe that may have survived re-entry are recovered
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
recovery airship has been deployed from Sheltered Rock & should be at the impact area in just over 1hr to begin searching for the radio beacon embedded in the RTG casing. The probe sent back 915kb of science data before being destroyed - not a lot but every tiny amount precious!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we did not regain contact with the Bot probe as expected but we did actually get signal back from the rocket so its core portion at least survived until impact. This is great because we now have a more precise location for which to hunt down the RTG casing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
SAS testing was completed with over a minute of retrograde hold before being disabled for re-entry. Both rocket & payload are now screaming back down through the atmosphere at nearly 2km/s. We only expect the RTG casing to survive through impact
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
both the rocket and payload have passed through apokee, with the Bot being just 30m higher. SAS testing proceeding well between all major orientations, should have enough time to end facing retrograde and demonstrate ability to also hold not just transition
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Mk7-B has completed its mission - we have confirmation of Bot Sat deployment! It was gently pushed free by springs on the payload base & will now complete its power-up sequence so controllers can test its reaction wheel system. Booster also now descending under 2 good chutes
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a nominal ascent, flight controllers are now taking stock of the rocket's trajectory and orientation then will shortly begin prep to release the "Bot Sat" payload. Booster is still being tracked falling back towards the water after reaching a 33.8km apokee
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
booster ignition & LIFT OFF!! The MK7-B heads up on its final mission, rolling off the pad to orient 34Β° 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! π
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
making final preparations for launch there is SO MUCH STUFF happening right now and it's always a bit of a dichotomy for Launch Control to be so silent at this time. No need to converse, each station has its own task. The more conversation, generally the more trouble
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] RSO has confirmed range is clear. Rwy21 also shut down due to NE launch corridor. Rocket engines ARMED for ignition and Flight Termination System is ACTIVE. Any incursion will hold the count. All visitors must remain in designated areas at this time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h30m] rocket is flight-ready, pad crews moving back in to re-check & secure while controllers setup for launch rehearsal. Towboat has been deployed and is making its way north of the bay to be ready for first stage recovery. No other maritime assets needed for this mission
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
one thing similar to a previous mission will be the coast to 25km before releasing the first stage & continuing the boost for space. This was done during the 1st mission in Aug and so far is the only ascent of three that did not cause loss of control on the second stage
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h15m] Flight Director Lanalye has her launch team assembled for final pre-flight brief. Due to the actual payload this mission will differ significantly from prior ones with the main objectives being to deploy & test the Luciole probe along with SRB recovery
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-4)
10/29
#2π08:52:27 π 11:02:48 !!π!!
#3π14:53:18 π 17:03:39
#4π20:54:09 π 23:04:30
10/30
#1π02:55:00 π 05:05:21
@ KSC (UTC-4)
10/29
#2π08:52:27 π 11:02:48 !!π!!
#3π14:53:18 π 17:03:39
#4π20:54:09 π 23:04:30
10/30
#1π02:55:00 π 05:05:21
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all launch readiness reports have been submitted & reviewed by Ops Director @DKerman_KSA. He has granted approval to move ahead with tomorrow's launch attempt after preliminary weather report forecasts 90% favorable conditions. Pre-launch ops will begin @ 13:00 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
next week's transit will be much more viewable over the populated half of Kerbin and will also occur during descending node and thus last almost 2x longer, ~8.5hrs. We will be provided with another composite of its track across the sun to share after the event is over
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Moho transits the sun next wk. Great chance to see this minuscule planet - if u have proper equipment!! We have kerbolar filters to buy/order from the KSC visitor shop. This is 2020's 2nd transit - we did not report on the 1st back on Feb 7th. Mun was transiting off @ start!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
gov't has now come around to the idea & is backing the pvt effort. Expedition to contact or search out the Great Desert tribe will depart in Dec. Religious leaders remain opposed. Given the attack on us, we are glad to see this moving forward. If a threat exists, good to know
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Kerbal Sounding Project has selected 6 experiments built by students with the assistance of industry mentors. We are looking forward to closing out the year once again with the Progeny MK6! HAB will be much less empty soon. More info on the bit.ly/Ops_Tracker
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
photo taken earlier at 3rd sunrise, zoomed in from atop the hills west of KSC. We just wanted to capture a new cover photo for our Around KSC album on flickr. Check out the rest of the photos here: flickr.com/photos/kerbal_β¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
scientists were recently allowed a period of access to the Monolith, which has been closed to investigation & used by worshipers only since early 2019. They report no changes since measurements were last taken. We continue to hope it decides to remain dormant
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket was fully stacked at the end of last week and load checks over the weekend were good. It is now horizontal for final close inspection today and tomorrow before being loaded up on the carry vehicle for rollout on Wednesday. Launch remains on schedule
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
thanks to the increase in travel due to commercial aircraft operations and KSC being more open to such traffic with the recent airport expansion we have already reached 10k unique visitors as of this weekend! twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
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
today a memorial service was held to remember the 12 pad workers lost 1yr ago when the KSC suffered an aircraft suicide attack - the deadliest mission in our history. We honor their sacrifice, continuing our journey to space. Details in the mission report: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9962
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
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
sharing the same mountaintops as our DSN stations, the ATN North & South observatories have both been fully commissioned and are already starting to work through the long list of observation proposals that have been submitted over the past year. This really opens up the full sky
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
our crew have all spent several hours just sitting inside the Mk1-B capsule, fully suited. They all definitely think floating around, even in the limited space, will make things more tolerable - not to mention getting lost in the views out the window. Day or more? Jury still out
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
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
booster integration was good last week and now this week the payload has been delivered from Luciole to undergo final checkouts in the HAB before being encapsulated and then stacked atop the waiting Progeny Mk7-B. Launch remains on schedule for next week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
earlier at 3rd sunrise a Dhumla departed KSC, seen zoomed in from the opposite runway end. The commercial airport expansion has increased air traffic in the area three-fold since Genesis shut down & has been a boon to industry in the nearby cavern of Umbarg
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Alaba holds the record, by far, for the most Mun encounters during its stay in orbit around Kerbin (49). This will help us greatly as we've already noticed how large trajectory changes after an encounter can throw off our predictions & understanding this will help future missions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Asteroid Tracking Network will continue to keep tabs on Alaba along with the rest of our former moonlets and the thousands of other asteroids out there. Right now it's not expected to come back through our SOI for at least the next 30 years
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Alaba exited our SOI earlier 2day, we are now without an asteroid companion for the 1st time since 11/17 when Alaba was discovered. It's not the 1st moonlet, but has stuck around the longest of the 8 we've had. Here's its full nearly 3yr journey (hugeres: flickr.com/gp/kerbal_spacβ¦)
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
final orbital update posted for bit.ly/_Alaba, now on escape trajectory. Its orbit is not hyperbolic, so you can still see its position in the Ops Tracker 3D view and where it will leave our SOI this Sunday and the sun's gravity will keep it from falling back in
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Monolithic followers will now have a more direct hand in building the new colony which means there will likely be a lot more friction during the process but at least progress is being made. No one is completely happy about the outcome which indicates it is a good compromise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
construction of Narskeim is moving forward again after negotiations succeeded between the government & religious leaders. Apparently tho they had been involved in planning to ensure the surface colony did not cause unnecessary surface damage, they were denied on-site oversight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
looking at Mun as the east begins to lighten, starting this minute Alaba will begin its 49th and final recorded transit of the Munar SOI. It will come as close as 1.2Mm before exiting over the next hour. We should have confirmation of its escape trajectory tomorrow from the ATN
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
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
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
the probe will be separated from the rocket after MECO so its internal reaction wheels can be tested. The RTG will be non-functional as we plan to crash this after uncontrolled re-entry to see what survives as part of our research into disposability
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the first smallSat platform from Luciole Space Systems has been designed to incorporate our RTGs for power along with backup electrical storage. They will be paired with a "tug" engine base similar to Kerbin II but first we just want to see the probe core itself function
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
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
the new Kravass commercial airport, set for Q1 2021 completion, will also be the new HQ for C7 as they continue aerospace development. KRG will remain operational for smaller private aircraft. Commercial airport for Narskeim (2022) will serve as a hub for Sheltered Rock & Ockr
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
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
to give the rocket teams the time needed to integrate the refurbished booster the launch has been delayed to 10/29 @ 17:45 UTC. We're also going to use the extra time to put an actual payload on this rocket from Luciole Space Systems to further test future Mk8 tech
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the overall failure of this week's mission doesn't overshadow the fact that the first stage booster performed flawlessly! We will now take the final step and attempt to re-use a previously-flown booster. The booster from the 2nd flight in Aug will power the final 4th flight
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
The downwards facing camera lenses quickly get toasted during re-entry but the booster cam also has an upwards facing camera that can still see the heat and flames caused by air friction as the Progeny MK7-B comes falling back from space at over 1km/s
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
premature celebration of mission success could've been avoided if we'd paid closer attn to the tlm data rather than just be excited about receiving it all the way to full chute. Drop in mass was recorded when the accelerometer detected a slower descent than expected under chute
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
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
KERZZAH!! \[0_o]/ tlm successfully relayed from MSV Aldeny via Kerbin II and we were able to confirm full chute deployment before Aldeny also lost signal over horizon. Once again we are well short of our intended landing zone, so recovery vessel is a few hrs away
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it worked! Thrust was good and slightly delayed apokee, which the rocket passed through seconds later. It's already flipping around to point its engine downwards in preparation for re-entry. Flight computer purged of ascent instructions & now setup with re-entry procedures
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've got the reaction wheels online, rocket pointed prograde. Apokee approaching fast, controllers waiting to gather pre-ignition data before sending up the command within this next minute to attempt to re-light the engine. If it fails still enough time to prep for re-entry
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
stage did recover, engine was cut early due to low fuel but we at least will make it to space and although fuel is at lowest levels of all 3 flights so far there's still a chance we can get the engine lit again, so you bet we are going to try!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
welp - looks like staging went smoothly but still we have an attitude failure of the 2nd stage. Everyone hoping it can recover itself and still have enough fuel remaining to push out of the atmosphere and also enable us to restart the engine afterwards
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
[T-2m] we are out of countdown hold and back to the terminal count. GSE could not be hooked back up without a scrub but more than enough battery power remains to carry out the mission. Rocket remains ready, winds are blowing steadily but not enough to cause problems. No gusts
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
no gusts registered at pad - false alarm or they died out, system is still new & mountain wave phenomena still poorly understood. Regardless, always better safe than sorry! Recycling to T-2min with new L-0 of 2100 UTC to wait a bit more & ensure conditions remain calm
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
mountain wave sensors were tripped, warning us some gusty winds were potentially rolling down from the highlands. Rocket remains secure with support arms still raised. We continue to monitor the situation. More info: kerbalspace.agency/?p=10380#mtnwaβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
"hold hold hold!" the call came from Katgan at the weather desk stopping the clock at just 8s prior to launch. Rocket remains primed, gathering more information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-1m] does this still get exciting? Hells yea! Only seconds remain now as we work towards final primary polling at 30s to L-0. If all is good, streaming telemetry will load in the Ops Tracker so be sure you're tuned in! ops.kerbalspace.agency
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] the chorus of "Go Flight!" was heard throughout the room in Launch Control as we pass final general polling. Ops Director @DKerman_KSA has granted launch permission. π GO PROGENY!! π FTS internal, GSE prepped for disconnect at terminal count, AFCS primed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] Range Safety Officer has confirmed nothing physical stands in the way of the rocket or endangered by its (hopefully slowly) falling booster. Engines are ARMED, Flight Termination System ACTIVE. RSO will hold count if any incursion is detected w/in 500m of pad
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
hot-fire staging will occur automatically this time as soon as the lower booster cuts out, hopefully not allowing the rocket's pitch to be upset enough that it will be unable to maintain proper ascent angle via thrust vector control after the Ospray 2nd stage engine ignites
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h15m] controllers are gathered in Launch Control for final preflight briefing from Flight Director Lanalye. We are still attempting to achieve all 3 primary mission goals set forth during the first attempt back in Aug: twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
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
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-4)
10/6
#2π07:34:15 π 09:44:36
#3π13:35:06 π 15:45:27 !!π!!
#4π19:35:57 π 21:46:18
10/7
#1π01:36:48 π 03:47:09
@ KSC (UTC-4)
10/6
#2π07:34:15 π 09:44:36
#3π13:35:06 π 15:45:27 !!π!!
#4π19:35:57 π 21:46:18
10/7
#1π01:36:48 π 03:47:09
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
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
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
ATN alert issued for NHQ-429(C), which has entered our SOI and been confirmed to be on course for impact. It is close enough to possibly affect the ATN/DSN North facility by kicking up enough debris into the air to obscure observations to some extent, depending on winds
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
3rd Progeny Mk7-B passed final checkouts and vertical load checks yesterday, was laid horizontal today and loaded up onto the carry vehicle. It will be rolled out Monday for wet dress rehearsal and final system checks ahead of launch attempt on Tuesday
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
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
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
new orbital data posted for bit.ly/_Alaba and yes, it will be getting kicked back out into Kerbolar orbit this month. Astronomers will now have to wrap up studies of the asteroid that have been ongoing since its capture in late 2017, the longest to date
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Mobile Launch Platform has been rolled back to the VAB and the support legs and engine mount for the Progeny Mk7-B have been installed. Some regular maintenance has been performed on the Ground Service Equipment and all looks good for rollout & launch next week
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
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
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
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
as we approach the next Mk7-B launch campaign the mission details for both launches have been updated on the Ops Tracker, so check them out to learn more about what we hope to achieve:
ops.kerbalspace.agency
ops.kerbalspace.agency
ops.kerbalspace.agency
ops.kerbalspace.agency
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
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
coming down late yesterday after the science data were images taken earlier in the day looking over the uplift in Kerraria Crater, atop which sits the DSN Central ground station along with an ATN observatory. Here's the best one
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
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
astronomers are now ~98% certain Chikelu is indeed no longer in orbit around Kerbin. With ATN North/South observatories coming fully online soon to provide complete sky coverage they will know for sure by the end of the year
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
time now for what is likely Alaba's penultimate encounter with Mun, cutting deep through its SOI for a close pass of 817.6km, taking 1h5m46s - at least that is what is projected. Day side now, will be a few days before its elongated orbit takes it back over the night side
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
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 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
two new bit.ly/KSARecords have been confirmed from the latest Ascension Mk2 mission (old/new):
β’ Heaviest Payload Launched
(Orbital Trajectory): 0.661t/0.767t
β’ Most Stable Orbits
(Around Kerbin): 20/37
Congrats to the Ascension team!
β’ Heaviest Payload Launched
(Orbital Trajectory): 0.661t/0.767t
β’ Most Stable Orbits
(Around Kerbin): 20/37
Congrats to the Ascension team!
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
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
a visual overview of the Ascension Mk2's mission, during which it traveled 196,993.249km from launch to hitting the top of the atmosphere, orbiting Kerbin a little over 37 times. Data processing underway to determine if its orbit decayed at all during that time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
#ICYMI earlier today we de-orbited the Viklun stage and nabbed a first mission success for the Ascension Mk2. Did anyone else watch its demise in the Ops Tracker? If not then here you go - without LKO probes it's easy to forget this view updates every second!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we lost data on atmospheric interface so the flight computer likely crashed for some reason. Unfortunate, but nothing really lost - we mainly wanted to confirm entry point and have that information. Stage likely disintegrated prior to splashing down. Complete mission success!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we had good engine start and nominal burn! Just enough battery power remains to allow telemetry data to continue transmitting to us until plasma blackout occurs. Here is the full command log from when the stage came out of hibernation earlier
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
~3min of slow movement has flipped the Viklun stage over to face retrograde. RCS fuel remains at a premium so careful manual control used to ensure enough remains thru burn as retrograde orientation is a slow-moving target that needs constant adjustment. M-3min
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Viklun stage has begun its final orbit, it will be waking up soon as it passes over DSN Central so we can begin prep for deorbit burn. Plan is to splash it down off the coast east of Ockr within the next hour, which is our regular ocean graveyard. Plot ends at atmosphere
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
submissions are once again open to senior-level students to participate in the 2nd KSP launch campaign for Nov/Dec. We had some awesome submissions last year and look forward to seeing what creative young minds come up with this time. Last year's launches: kerbalspace.agency
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with the main engine putting out the amount of power it was supposed to this time, SRB drop occurred as planned and fell away from the rocket on separation. Altitude & downrange distance were also sufficient this time that none of the boosters fell back anywhere near the runways
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
coming up on orbital insertion burn. Everyone on the edge of their seats. Nothing finesse about this - just point prograde, crack the throttle wide open and trust in thrust. Resulting orbit will not be perfectly circular but we're not aiming for such things yet. Let's GOOOOOO
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
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
still looking at a nominal ascent, first major milestone reached w/Ap in space to secure us time to react if Viklun fails to hold attitude after stage sep, which is the next major event coming up now as we are just seconds from MECO. Everyone hold on to your butts...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket remains on pitch profile, TWR hold @ 1.5 was good this time so velocity is nominal. Roll ctrl on pitch fins was disabled earlier so flutter is reduced as it passes now through transonic regime. Engine chamber pressures nominal. SRBs falling downrange just offshore
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
[T-2m] terminal countdown has begun with the AFCS taking control of the launch sequence. Service booms have swung away, gangway retracted. Rocket is on internal power and RF comms. SRB hold-down bolt explosives armed. Viklun's dual flight computers are synchronizing
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
[L-15m] RSO has closed the range, rocket engines are ARMED, Flight Termination System is ACTIVE. All visitors must remain in designated areas and hearing protection while outdoors is REQUIRED. Any incursions will immediately hold the count
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h] now into the final hour of the count, MLP is secured & controllers are performing ascent simulation to ensure all consoles and rocket are properly configured for the mission. Visitor areas are filling up fast - tickets sold out to this launch in record time last week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h35m] high-altitude weather ballon has begun its ascent to give us an update on upper-level conditions in time for the final general polling at L-5min. MSV Aldeny has reported in, downrange in the Kerblantic in case of emergency recovery operations due to inflight abort
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
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
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
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
[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
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
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
we'd like to note that this is technically Ascension's 4th attempt at orbit. 2 attempts by the Mk1 & 1st Mk2 attempt failed cause Kerbin I had to insert itself into orbit. This time we are looking for the Mk2's upper Viklun stage to do the job of inserting the payload into orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
construction on Narskeim already halted due to a sit-in protest from Monolithic followers who believe further sullying of the surface will bring the wrath of the Monolith builders down up on us all. They've setup camp altho how well they can stay supplied is up to question
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
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
earlier today we had a routine fire drill that actually ended up causing a small fire when a lab technician failed to properly shut down his experiment before evacuating. It was put out quick, no serious damage but R&D was only a month away from 1yr incident-free safety record!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
for sure, we see public events like these as a great gateway for kerbs to become more involved in amateur astronomy and especially for younger ones to become involved in related professional fields. Great observations, thanks for sharing!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
waiting on good weather, high-alt KerBalloon crew have finally released their first payload from the Kongo base and will range out further as their stay progresses, covering areas all along the river out to the mouth more than 350km to the west
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
quarterly aerial collection of pollen data around the KSC region has been carried out by a contract pilot using the Civvie previously operated by us. This will not show up in the Ops Tracker but we are glad that scientific research continues even w/o our direct involvement
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our Tracking Station dishes do not have much of anything to track in space right now but they still go through the motions as controllers run exercises that simulate on-orbit operations. They are now well-practiced and ready for when we have numerous satellites up there
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
mock-up of the new Mk1-B capsule has arrived so the astronauts can begin training on its use. It features a new digital display but remains mostly analogue and similar to the MK1-A controls for ease of transition. Capsule will not be performing missions more complex than Mk1-A
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
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
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
β¨π Happy Operational Anniversary KSA!! πβ¨
ππππ
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
ππππ
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
a Dhumla taxis in at the Kongo research base carrying equipment and some team members for the high-altitude KerBalloon crew, who will be setting up shop there for the next month to run an extended balloon release campaign for better data on weather patterns in the region
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
data from the two low-alt KerBalloon missions this month has allowed Lead Scientist Cheranne to get funding for her Field Research Team and grant a long-term contract to the KB crew for more regular pollen measurements to compliment the quarterly Civvie flights
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
get the details on Bob's harrowing journey up into space with the flight analysis report just published today: kerbalspace.agency/?p=11253 the rocket survived a punishing ascent and we came the closest we've been so far to losing a crew member in flight
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
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
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
notice something different about this ATN plot? REZ-109(E) is the first recorded asteroid to pass through the Eve system. Close follow-up observation is scheduled to help further constrain the gravitational properties of Eve and its small moon Gilly for future space missions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Mobile Launch Platform was rolled out to the pad today to perform checks on it and the ground service equipment. No issues were found, launch schedule remains on track. It's now back in the VAB and already has the lifter section stacked on it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Narskeim will be more than just a place to live above ground, serving as a more accessible port (goods will be flown to Ockr and Sheltered Rock via aircraft), expansive agriculture and most importantly for us the testing and development of kerbolar power
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today was the dedication & ground breaking ceremony for the 1st new surface colony in nearly 300 years! Narskeim (Nahr-sky-ehm) is derived from "open sky above" in kerbskrit. We are proud to have taken part in realizing this historic event, performing aerial surveys of the land
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN/DSN North & South have both finished commissioning runs for their telescopes and radio dishes. Each have a 27m dish that will assist in tracking of future polar satellites, with 2 scopes 8m optical & 6m infrared. We've already seen an increase in comet discoveries. Kerzzah!
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
we're getting telemetry data from the KerBalloon just released through the Umbarg aerial relay. Crew camped out until 3rd sunrise. They report hearing thunder off to the north, thankfully winds out of the east will blow balloon away from the storms
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-altitude KB crew have headed out to the grasslands (bit.ly/Sector_LVS9B) for the 1st of their 2 pollen support readings this month. The traversal will be 78km taking ~2hrs. Could cut time traveling underground to Umbarg before surfacing but it's a nice day cycle out
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSC's commercial airport expansion main construction phase has concluded this month, however it will still take until the end of this year for all facilities that were built to become fully operational. The addition of an ATC tower has yet to be required, is expected in 2021
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MES-2 was possible even with lower amt of fuel remaining than last time because even tho tank press was too low the rotation of the tumble could have been enough to hold fuel at tank bottom. BUT, burn would have been too short to have any effect on apokee after attitude recovery
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
tracking camera footage from last week's flight picking up at L+16s just as the rocket began to have trouble pitching over more. We can now confirm it was an actuator problem with one fin. This led to an off-nominal attitude hold at staging & TVC over-correction after ignition
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
looking back down from 80km apokee up in space as the Progeny Mk7-B drifts east of Cape Kernaveral, sunrise still visible on the horizon off to the far west. This is the rocket holding the radial-out orientation after rotating with its reaction wheel system
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
and now the grand finale in our recap of the Genesis program, a look at the flight paths for all 125 missions! You can do the same thing on the bit.ly/Ops_Tracker, although the coloring by aircraft type was specially done for these images
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the need for larger dishes will come when enough probes are up in space that it is difficult to find time to communicate with them all. 3 large dishes can get data from 3 separate deep-space probes whereas our current 3 dishes working together can only receive data from one
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
booster cam on the Mk7-B takes video at 4FPS & is mainly for engineering use in post-flight analysis but it did get a nice look at the extent of the recently-completed commercial airport expansion. Next up there are plans in the works to expand the Support Village
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
there could be three pads with a smaller one added for Progeny. It all depends on how much trouble it would be to use the current pad GSE for both Progeny & smaller Ascension or even if any smaller Ascension would still be flying to compete with pad use
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this has raised the question about multiple launch pads at KSC. At this time we do not have any plans set, but eventually there will at least need to be one additional larger pad built further away when Ascension rockets reach 2.5m
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Luciole & Progenitor have continued to iterate on designs, including a single-stick and "heavy" configuration for the Progeny Mk8. There has also been talk of a custom-made launch base that would carry the vehicle out to the pad, although this would require use of the VAB
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
we are happy to report the 2nd stage was tracked down & recovered intact! However although MES-2 was maybe possible we decided against it due to the ascent problems. It remained a primary mission goal which means we have to chalk up another failure for the Mk7-B
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
another good recovery was made of the 1st stage booster, seen here floating 6km downrange prior to being hooked up for a tow. When it gets back to shore it will be loaded up onto a truck & then a stop at the VAB to prep for shipping via rail to Umbarg for post-flight inspection
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we lost the rocket over the horizon before any recovery measures deployed but we do know it survived plasma blackout & was still pointing along its velocity vector so no undue stress. Unless we suffer a chute failure it should be coming down okay. Waiting on word from the Aldeny
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
reaction wheels responding well to pointing commands, rocket has now been oriented retrograde and we've reached the top of the atmosphere. The ascent tumbling would have stressed out the rocket so here's hoping re-entry is kinder than last time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
maybe just enough fuel remains for engine restart but it will not significantly raise apokee so we are instead doing more work with the reaction wheel system during the brief period we have above the atmosphere. Apokee already only a few seconds away now
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
half a flip backwards, half a flip forwards and the rocket was actually able to recover itself! After MECO-1 however it was unable to maintain attitude still in air too thick for reaction wheels and is now back to tumbling as it coasts upwards into space
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket had some odd issues determining which fins did what during 1st stage ascent & guidance seemed to kick in late, however flight did appear stable at BECO so staging for MES-1 was commanded shortly afterwards and oh no now the rocket is tumbling. Can the TVC save it??
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
booster ignition and LIFT OFF!! The 2nd Progeny Mk7-B leaps from the engine clamp at 3G, thrust will peak at 74kN 5s after launch then taper off as rocket ascends. Guidance has kicked in immediately to begin pitching the rocket downrange direct east. Gooooooo Progeny!!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
guidance constraints are the same as last mission, fairly loose since we're not targeting a specific landing location or anything like that. We're basically just hoping it stays close to expected course. If not, Ops Tracker telemetry will flash for being outside these values
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] we have favorable upper-level conditions and all stations report they are π GO for launch! π @DKerman_KSA popped two thumbs up into the air from his console & launch approval has thus been granted. Then FD Lanalye made him state it for the record. FTS on internal power
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] Range Safety Officer has shut down the launch site, ascent corridor & booster splashdown zone. Rocket ignition system is ARMED & Flight Termination System is ACTIVE. All visitors must remain within designated areas or feel the ire of your peers for making us hold count
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] while we used to just literally poke our heads outside to check the weather, now we have a trained meteorologist (Katgan) and weather station feeding us data. Surface conditions remain green! Final countdown procedures are GO. Any scrub backs us up to at least this point
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h30m] Rocket is checked out and ready to go! We've gotten relayed messages from MSV Aldeny that sea conditions are moderate but still favorable for 2nd stage recovery out in the Kerblantic. Just offshore here at KSC seas are calm for first stage recovery
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the immediate ignition of the Ospray engine after BECO will be dependent on how well the rocket handles supersonic flight. If it gets all "wibbly wobbly" again staging will be delayed until control oscillations die down, but likely still prior to 25km in this case
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
weather continues to look promising, with perfectly clear skies as 2nd sunrise approaches. Pad is quiet for now. Jool and Sarnus are still visible in the early dawn light. We are just hoping conditions in the upper atmosphere have improved as trends yesterday suggested
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-4)
8/27
#2π 07:28:35 π11:19:05
#3π 13:29:26 !!π!! π17:19:56
#4π 19:30:17 π23:20:47
8/28
#1π 01:31:08 π05:21:38
@ KSC (UTC-4)
8/27
#2π 07:28:35 π11:19:05
#3π 13:29:26 !!π!! π17:19:56
#4π 19:30:17 π23:20:47
8/28
#1π 01:31:08 π05:21:38
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
surface conditions have improved but upper-level winds remain red. We will continue to delay the launch into tomorrow, where we will again have 2 more chances. First chance will begin at 13:29 UTC, conditions are expected to be more favorable. Rocket remains healthy & rdy to go
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-altitude KerBalloon team have received a follow-up contract to their last mission. Scientists were pleased with the extra pollen data and will have two more balloons sent up in the region for even more data to continue to fine-tune their models
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
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all system checks going well and wet dress rehearsal was good. Control system problems from the last launch have been fully eradicated and GSE is performing well. As before, rocket will remain tanked for condensed pre-launch procedures tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
flight analysis report on the first progeny Mk7-B launch has been published: kerbalspace.agency/?p=11203 TL;DR - we might hot-fire 2nd stage this next flight to get higher apokee & guidance control tweaked to hopefully lessen roll-shake on initial ascent
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket has started its 1.317km trip out to the pad from the HAB, just about twice as long a drive from the VAB although it will take almost 3x as long because the road to the pad from the HAB is very much not a straight line...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the final major section of the commercial airport expansion project has been completed, giving KSC the warehouse capacity to hold tons of goods in transfer incoming to Umbarg via aircraft and outgoing from Umbarg via railway
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
Mk7-B has received a clean bill of health after its weeks in storage, adjustments made for this week's flight (including extra structural support to the 2nd stage engine shroud) and has been loaded up onto the carry vehicle for rollout & WDR tomorrow ahead of Wed launch attempt
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a new batch of interns start their 4-month rotation this week in the R&D and Science departments. We've continued to see an increase in applications and will be extending the program to the Engineering departments as well later this year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the unkerbed capsule that flew 4 missions has been sent to the Air History Museum in Kravass, which will now have to be called the Air & Space History Museum! The other kerbed capsule that flew 2 missions will be retired as well but kept at KSC HQ in Umbarg for training use
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today is the first time KSC visitors can get an up-close look at the Ascension Mk1-A capsule that carried Bill & Val into space and saved Jeb with a pad abort. This is the first *actual* piece of flight hardware to be featured in our rocket garden
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we took all the largest (or only) moons in other planetary systems & rendered them at the same distance as Mun. None look as sharp as Mun as we don't have any great photos of them. No Karen as it & Plock are technically a bi-planetary system. Thatmo's atmo not proven but likely
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
we acknowledge this is quite the attempt for what would also likely be our 1st interplanetary mission, but the chance for getting a probe to the outer Kerbol system for only ~2km/s Ξv is just too good to pass up & we will do our best to make it work with whatever we have by then
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
the sky is barely brightened over here but the high-altitude KB crew 512km northeast has daylight already to send up their payload. We are receiving telemetry data and this photo via the comm relay leading to Sheltered Rock, perched on that flat peak in the far distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
parts from now-defunct USI for the final two Progeny Mk7-B flights have finally been cleared for purchase as Luciole continues to absorb the company and free up its assets from the clutches of litigation. Both flights are still planned to be flown in October
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the booster cam was not recording video fast enough to really appreciate just how wibbly wobbly the rocket was on intial ascent, so to the ground tracking camera we go. Everyone is still amazed it managed to hold together, altho this likely contributed to the re-entry break-up
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Progenitor have moved into the Horizontal Assembly Building, which can still vertical load test their rockets while Ascension will now have more room in the VAB for future rockets wider than 1.25m. The next Mk7-B has begun its final adjustments & checks for launch next week
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
Genesis ended as our 2nd-most successful and profitable program behind KerBalloon, giving us 33,413 funds in net income that will now go towards rocket development. Here are some more impressive stats from nearly 4 years of operation
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
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
more photos from the Mk7-B flight. Not going as high as planned, there was no time to "look around" so we just got whatever the cameras happened to be pointing at while thrusting prograde & re-orienting, facing retrograde. Descriptive text is included for each image
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we finally have word on the second stage - it was recovered, but not fully intact. The lower half of the fuel tank & engine were missing. Unfortunately engine recovery was a primary goal & thus we will have to mark this mission as a failure, but still mostly successful
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
while we await word on recovery of the second stage, good news from closer downrange as the first stage booster is being hooked up for tow back to shore, where it will be hauled out then shipped off to Periapsis Co. to see whether it could possibly be re-used in the future
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket was able to re-orient properly in time but coming in so shallow questionable whether it will remain upright into air stream. Definite that reaction wheels cannot hold it there. Relatively slow speed means we may hold comms until the horizon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket is through apokee (planned was ~160km) & controllers will use the reaction wheels to get it slowly turned around retrograde before hitting the atmosphere again. MSV Aldeny should have already begun steaming westward after picking up the rocket low over the horizon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've had a successful restart of the Ospray engine while in space! This isn't the first time we've restarted an engine in flight but is the first time this particular engine has been restarted in flight. Without air pressure, gas plume from engine expands rapidly
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
2nd stage burn completed, with the flight computer terminating it early to save enough fuel for our restart attempt while still pushing out of the atmosphere. Not the ideal flight we had planned but still making do with the under-performing initial ascent
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket had a rough time pushing through MaxQ but did become more stable as pressure eased and air continued to thin. BECO also occurred almost 5km lower than expected, likely due to way larger drag losses than predicted due to excess fin movement
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good ignition of the Boostertron II and we have lift off! The first Progeny Mk7-B screams skyward with an initial TWR of 3 as the guidance program immediately kicks in to angle the fins and begin pitching over downrange. Go Progeny Go!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] we have a GO from all stations as final polls wrap up and launch permission is given by @DKerman_KSA. Service tower boom is unlocked for retraction, FTS already on internal power and the Automated Flight Control System is preparing to switch over to batteries as well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] RSO has confirmed clear air, land and water. Rocket is ARMED, Flight Termination System ACTIVE. Despite this being an inaugural launch, small crowd outside today. All visitors must remain in designated areas
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h30m] all the work done over the past 2 days continues to give us no issues to work & preflight is now completed, rocket stands ready! Word has been passed along from MSV vessels that the Aldeny is on station in good sea conditions. Booster recovery vessel has been launched
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Here's a look at the mission animated, with the SRB falling close to KSC while the second stage flies further downrange, talking to all major ground stations to ensure we have backup data collection. 2nd propulsion not shown, will be triggered by controllers prior to apokee
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h15m] Flight Director Lanalye has gathered her B team of launch controllers for their final pre-flight briefing. Primary mission goals are:
β’ Recover both stages
β’ Reaction wheel control
β’ Re-light 2nd stage in space
Mission overviews:
β’ Recover both stages
β’ Reaction wheel control
β’ Re-light 2nd stage in space
Mission overviews:
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h45m] prelaunch ops are GO with updated weather forecast improving conditions to 80%. Launch teams are dispersing to get ready for their various duties. Countdown is slightly condensed as rocket remained fueled after WDR on Wed. Expect updates at these milestones:
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-4)
8/14
#2π10:34:53
#3π 12:45:14 !!π!! π16:35:44
#4π 18:46:05 π22:36:35
8/15
#1π 00:46:56 π04:37:26
#2π 06:47:47
@ KSC (UTC-4)
8/14
#2π10:34:53
#3π 12:45:14 !!π!! π16:35:44
#4π 18:46:05 π22:36:35
8/15
#1π 00:46:56 π04:37:26
#2π 06:47:47
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's almost time to say goodbye at last to Alaba, which should be returning to kerbolar orbit in Oct. Although the exact timing is still fuzzy, astronomers have a high degree of confidence that it will end up being ejected - just shy of a nice round 50 (recorded) encounters, of course
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ops Director @DKerman_KSA has approved all readiness reports from Simon & Lanalye - we are π GO π for launch attempt tomorrow! Weather forecast 60% favorable - today was of course nicer. Pre-launch operations are scheduled to begin at 12:45 UTC ops.kerbalspace.agency
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
high-altitude KerBalloon crew will be releasing a payload up over the mountains from the highlands between Ockr & Sheltered Rock as ongoing studies continue work to improve weather forecast models for various regions of the planet, especially near the future surface colony
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
another day of checkouts gets underway as FD Lanalye and her team work to get new flight systems to fully cooperate with the rocket and ground service equipment. When it works it works great, but it doesn't always work 100%
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
FD Lanalye says she wants one more day of checking out the rocket and testing new control systems that were installed between this mission and the last unkerbed flight back in June. Always better safe than RUD - new launch time has been set for 8/14 @ 17:30 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronauts are at our Umbarg HQ to begin more runs in the centrifuge, carrying on over the next week as research continues to study the effects of high G loads during re-entry, now with even more data to apply from Bob's recent mission
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the rocket is nearing the pad as the carry vehicle plods along at just 7m/s - faster than when carrying a heavier Ascension load. It will be lifted vertical, mounted to the engine clamp, then the service tower, then the 4th support leg will be installed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-altitude KerBalloon team will be making a short sojourn out to the grasslands west of KSC next week to release a balloon and see if the data gathered can help augment Civvie flights to record pollen levels in the atmosphere
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
looks like we should have checked out the carry vehicle as well as we did the rocket - rollout delayed until tomorrow & launch pushed to Thurs @ 17:27 UTC. We could rollout & launch in a single day but with a new rocket FD Lanalye says she wants a full day for pre-launch checks
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
okay numberphiles - late today at 21:33:09 local time the amount of seconds since operations began on 00:00:00, 9/13/16 will be 123456789. Today is also the 333rd day of operations in the 3rd year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Engineer Simon reports that the first Progeny Mk7-B has passed its final flight readiness checks and has been loaded up onto the carry vehicle. We remain on schedule for rollout and WDR tomorrow ahead of launch attempt Wed ops.kerbalspace.agency
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all 3 aircraft developed under the program will continue to be produced and flown of course, and we look forward to seeing what the teams at C7 come up with in the future! Wernher's R&D dept is still partnered with C7 Aerospace Division to work on jet technology
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerbin Weather Service has sent a team here to fly weather missions in the Deuce and contract pilots will handle Civvie flights for regional pollen sampling. Both aircraft are now being operated by KSC and will not be tracked or included in KSA operations
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
farewell party in the HAB today for the Genesis team, as the program was officially shut down at the end of July. This past week was the final few days of clearing out offices/equipment. We're happy tho that those we couldn't shift to other programs have been picked up by C7
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Specialist Bob has submitted to rigorous medical testing this past week as physicians work to determine why he was the only one who blacked out on re-entry when centrifuge exercises showed he should have been able to handle the G load that was similar to Val & Jeb's returns
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it took the software team a while to work with the engineers and replicate the LES decouple anomaly but finally we can publish the full flight report for the 11th space radiation study launched back in June. What do all these plots mean? Find out: kerbalspace.agency/?p=11126
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
still not exceeding 12 asteroids (record ever was 35 in Mar 2018), July does tie May for most known asteroids to pass through in a month, with two impacts. Looking into August so far the Asteroid Tracking Network is watching 6 incoming 'roids, so potential for another high count
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a severe storm swept in off the sea but thanks to MSV reports and KWS weather flights we had enough advance warning to shut down operations, batten down the hatches and ride it out with no serious damage to facilities. Will resume normal operations tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers will continue to work on why such close passes add uncertainty to their predictions if made several encounters ahead of time. This will be very important for future Extremis missions that will make use of gravity-assist maneuvers!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new orbital data for bit.ly/_Alaba shows the large trajectory change as expected and also confirms the next encounter will happen 11 minutes sooner than originally predicted back in June. This is a large enough error to void the rest of the long-term propagation
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the astronauts worked hard arranging a scavenger hunt around KSC for kerblings who visited the space center as part of normal public access - also we got rid of a ton of old (small) rocket parts
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 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
ATN reports no additional sighting of JLH-722(A) - it either broke up or slammed into the surface sometime after the last known pass near Arekibo. Modeling suggested a 3rd pass should have been over Sheltered Rock/Ockr again but was not seen
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
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
commercial airport expansion continues as the small hangars adjacent to the KSC-side of the runway are completed to house KSA/KSC aircraft. No more parking out in front of the HAB! Well, not recently but should it be used again constant enclosure will make maintenance easier
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
earlier today Alaba encountered Mun for the 44th time on record, taking ~1hr to transit through its SOI, coming as close as 1.6Mm. The event was not observed due to daylight. It will be picked up again in a few hours and new orbital data posted later this week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
storms out on the northwest horizon of Arekibo blocked any chance of spotting JLH-722(A) and distant thunder could have shrouded an explosion although detailed analysis of recordings are still ongoing to look for any distinctive sound signature
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the second pass of JLH-722(A) could possibly be seen by kerbs at Arekibo ~2131 UTC. Re-entry starts at only 10Β° above the horizon so whether it heats up enough to become visible before disappearing is questionable. Any explosion should carry well over open water tho
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
β¨π HAPPY BIRTHDAY! πβ¨
π π
our founder @DKerman_KSA (20) and astronaut Captain Jebediah (46) share a cake day. Neither are taking the day off but both spent time celebrating separately over the weekend
π π
our founder @DKerman_KSA (20) and astronaut Captain Jebediah (46) share a cake day. Neither are taking the day off but both spent time celebrating separately over the weekend
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
JLH-722(A) has been rediscovered and is on approach to pass through the atmosphere again tomorrow. Astronomers are taking bets on whether it will survive. Due to small size, possible it could fuse & harden to become more durable and keep from breaking apart
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Urlum appears nearly as bright as Moho in the early morning sky down by the shore of Cape Kernaveral. This is mostly due to color contrast & less absorption of blue light but also because Moho is close to us on its orbit meaning its sunlit face is mostly turned away right now
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a 2nd entry today, the only other double-header besides May 8th of this year, QQG-648(C) will be swinging closer but still safely away at just 0.18 Munar Distance. By this time in 2019, 10 days of dual asteroid encounters had already occurred, more evidence rate is slowing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MML-899(A) is making its entry into our SOI this minute and will pass no closer than 3.68 Munar Distance as it slowly tumbles (rotational speed, we mean - its sun-centric velocity is over 9km/s) through the outer system. It is the 9th known asteroid encounter of July
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all 4 crew's sub-orbital re-entry profiles. Bill was 1st so most conservative. Val then Jeb were next, Bob's mission went the highest. Bob was the only one who blacked out - the final flight report will attempt to determine the cause. Bumps after max G are chute deployments
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here are the @LucioleSpace engines to scale next to the 1.25m WildCat-V. The Skeeter fits in a 0.4m^3 area & will be in a cluster of 7 on a 0.625m engine mount. The Firefly is a vacuum-optimized 0.625m engine built to carry the payload up into orbit. Both will be tested in-house
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
high-altitude KB crew are loading up to fly out to the Kongo, with 2 Dhumlas to carry UTVs and supplies. Crew will fly out in Deuces. Though none are our own aircraft, this is still the first time using no airships for mission transport! Not always cheaper, but progressive
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
back at KSC now, Bob enjoyed his time off and hero's parade through his home cavern of Kravass along with a phone call from the Presider. He's amped up to get working with the rest of the crew to prepare for a longer stay in space next year - orbit! (either him or Val to be 1st)
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
the Progeny Mk7-C, which was to be a full 0.625m stack rocket based on current and scaled up USI parts, will now be the Mk8, debuting in early 2021 comprised entirely of 0.625m Luciole parts and will be the first rocket to feature clustered & all gimbaled engines - no fins!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Luciole will settle the current lawsuit against USI that was preventing us from launching Progeny rockets. The Mk7-B will fly in August - dates coming next week. This does mean tho the next Ascension Mk2 mission will be pushed back to early/mid Sept. Then more Mk7-B NET Oct
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
Hot! Hot! Hot! π₯ 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
it was too cloudy over Ockr but the camera at Sheltered Rock got a good view of JLH-722(A) passing by at perikee just after 2nd sunset. It survived & exited sunward, which means astronomers will not be able to hunt it down to confirm it was captured (as expected) for several days
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
to get an idea of just how much panic was caused by Bob's initial ascent (red) compare it to the trajectory he was supposed to fly (green). Had the rocket not recovered and shown to hold good AoA and keep nose at or above 45Β°, abort would have been triggered by controllers
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
JLH-722(A) is set to pass low through our upper atmosphere early today, traveling east to west. Remote cameras are ready to observe. Kerbs are warned NOT to surface to view this event. If it explodes, the resulting shockwave could cause injury or death
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
how did we recover the capsule with an airship? We tested a similar method over water #OTD back in 2018 and since then have perfected the procedure and kept it in our back pocket for use when needed over land or sea twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
one more photo from Bob's mission, one of the last few he took prior to returning to his seat for re-entry. Looking northeast, you can spot the aurora & also see the island he landed on just over the terminator. To the left far below is the mountain upon which sits Ockr Relay
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
JLH-722(A) wins this month's How Low Can You Go contest, skimming through our atmosphere later this week. Astronomers are prepping to observe it as best as possible to see if it becomes captured. If so, it will eventually break apart or impact Kerbin
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've now sent all 4 of our crew up into space. To think that just over 3 years ago they were all only dreaming of the possibility. The Progeny Mk3 rocket seen launching in this photo still hadn't even made it to the upper atmosphere yet!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob has been given a clean bill of health, which is great news considering he blacked out for 24 seconds during the most punishing point of re-entry, which saw over 9G for nearly 10s, 4s of which was over 11G and nearly 12G. He's now heading back home to Kravass for some R&R
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although it did not travel as high as planned, Bob's flight still managed to pull ahead of all Val's sub-orbital 2019 bit.ly/KSARecords & also set a new record for longest downrange distance from which a sub-orbital vessel was successfully recovered ops.kerbalspace.agency/?body=Kerbin-Sβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Aldeny has pulled into port at Sheltered Rock and Bob will be given a full medical exam tomorrow. Capsule is still there as well and will be shipped the rest of the way back to KSC for post-flight inspection next week. This was its second flight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we had two opportunities during the Kerbin I mission to also capture Mun's shadow but it wasn't in the proper planned orbit right after launch that would have given it visibility and then also just missed it during a perikee pass a few days later on 2/23 thx to missed maneuver
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here's the first time we've ever seen Mun's shadow from space! First photo taken ~140km & second at apokee over Sheltered Rock @ 294km. Note the land seen to the right of img1 extends into the shadow & contains KSC but it gets too dark to see it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob is only a little more than halfway through the sea journey back to Sheltered Rock but airship recovery of the capsule is already completed. Here is a photo he took of the landing site. Space photos will need add'l processing but we hope to release them today too
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it was a ~22km hike from his capsule to the shore but Bob made it okay - all that wilderness survival training finally coming in handy. Aldeny crew was there to greet him, he's now heading aboard to sail back to Sheltered Rock. They will arrive in port tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Civvie has been relieved by another pilot with her personal craft & it remains circling offshore to relay comms over the horizon. The Aldeny has arrived and made contact with Bob, who has been working towards the shore, performing various surface observations along the way
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
β¨π KERZZAH!! πβ¨ \[0_o]/ the Civvie has returned w/in range of Ockr relay to report Bob is indeed safely down, no injuries from landing in grassland area. MSV Aldeny is still about 2-3 hours away. Capsule is reportedly well inland, so it will need to be recovered separately
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a Civvie volunteer has just departed from Ockr General to serve as relay messenger between us and the Aldeny as it sails over the horizon. It will also get to the island sooner to confirm Bob's status and location. Should be there & back w/in 2 hours. thx to public for support!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob should have landed by now. If uninjured he can egress from the capsule on his own. He has 4 days of food and water in addition to the capsule for shelter, but there's no reason why we shouldn't find him later today as search & recovery operations kick off full force
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
capsule should now be descending slowly under ALL chutes - controllers recommended to Bob he pop the reserve radials as well even if the mains open to help make the landing softer since he will not be splashing down into the ocean. Heat shield will also be sacrificed to help
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we had Bob calling out readings non-stop to make clear when comms dropped out. Now just static. The Aldeny is still several hours from the island but telemetry data prior to signal loss has everyone fairly confident that is indeed where he is coming down
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob is strapped into his seat again for a rough ride back to Kerbin. Capsule is retrograde & LES jettison will occur shortly before re-entry in <1min. Capsule spun up to keep radial chutes cool. We don't expect to regain comms after plasma blackout. Good luck, Bob!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
decision made to hold off on LES use. It's looking like Bob will come down right smack dab in the middle of this large island, which would be preferred over having him floating for hours in an open sea that could be rough. Val is telling Bob to begin re-entry prep
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
approaching apokee & discussion is still underway whether to use the LES to put the brakes on and bring the capsule down sooner, altho the steeper re-entry will put more Gs onto Bob, who is now floating around and saying he's getting a great view of Mun's shadow far down below
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill has already shucked his suit to be in Launch Control with everyone else to see how this plays out. Apokee in ~4min & Bob's flatter trajectory will take him well downrange. MSV Aldeny is already starting to move eastwards at best speed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
controllers are scrambling to plot Bob's new trajectory as he takes over control to begin orienting the capsule to get some good views out the window. Despite the guidance issue, we are still pleased at how well the rocket carried out the rest of the ascent
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bumpy ride is smoothing out, close eye kept on external temp as friction heats up. Throttle pull back to maintain 2.7 TWR ended at 40km to jam Bob back in his seat with 4G+. We will at least make it up to space - primary goal achieved!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
WHOA. Okay, guidance issue. Rocket thinks its nominal tho so not auto LES. Tlm shows it *is* still under control w/o danger of flipping. Controllers have left abort decision up to Bob. Shaky response but nonetheless he says "push on push on!"
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ignition & launch thrust good - we have LIFTOFF! Spc Bob is finally on his way to space for the 1st time, outrunning the shadow of Mun as it passes over the KSC. Once clear of the towers, engine will kick up from ~70% to full thrust
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-1m] it's time to load the Ops Tracker if it's not already to watch live ascent tlm, which should load up after T-30s if final primary polls come back GO. The final automated sequence follows. Val excitedly tells Bob to "hold on tight & enjoy the ride!" ops.kerbalspace.agency
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] final general poll: all GO! Bob has switched to capsule life support & is undergoing final suit integrity check. Launch permission granted by Ops Director @DKerman_KSA. π GO ASCENSION! π FTS power internal, service arm unlocked to retract, AFCS rdy for terminal count
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Val uses a rare lull in final procedures to ask Bob how he's doing. There is a tense moment of silence. Then, "I don't know why I thought you could see me give a thumbs up". Crew-facing cameras in the Mk1-B capsule? We could do that...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] Range Safety Officer has closed down the ascent corridor & launch pad area, any incursions via ground, air or water will hold the count. All outside viewers must remain in designated areas w/hearing protection. Flight Termination System is ACTIVE, engine ignition ARMED
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
careful attention being paid to Bob's vitals as we approach the end of countdown. He's spent the past year working on his anxiety. Val has helped him learn meditation & he says all the practice to get into a routine has made it easier to work through. Heart rate is steady!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
flight surgeon reports Bob has peed his suit. This was expected, altho Jeb still jokes that he was surprised Bob didn't do it the first time out of terror. What happens? He gets a little wet but it'll dry alright and no important sensors are down there... twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h55m] rocket has been configured for tanking, LES is armed & GO has been given for onload of propellants to begin - 7t worth will flow into the lifter stage. Val is keeping Bob busy with the preflight checklist, which keeps his mind off the explosive potential beneath him
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h20m] rocket is vertical and pad crews are finalizing mounting. Meanwhile in Launch Control the A team is gathering for a final briefing from Flight Director Lanalye. Bob's mission could be the longest space voyage yet and break Val's record of 11m2s. Flight overview:
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h20m] crew load complete on schedule, capsule hatch is sealed. Val has plugged in for CapCom in case any issues arise inside while the rocket is raised and mounted. Visitor busing has begun to depart from the Support Village so viewers can pick out their spots
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h45m] capsule hatch is open, crew loading has begun. Climbing from the crew van, Bob gave Val a big hug then started up the ramp. When asked to pose for a new photo he just kept on walking saying "I'm getting right on in this thing while I'm still feeling good about it"
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5h] the rocket has already left for the pad & now Specialist Bob is on his way to join it w/ the rest of the launch site crew. Tanker truck is getting fueled up to head over a bit later as well. Bill will remain suited up on standby in the ready room at the Astronaut Complex
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-4)
7/16
#2π08:56:17 π 11:06:39 !!π!!
#3π14:57:08 π 17:07:30
#4π20:57:59 π 23:08:21
7/17
#1π02:58:50 π 05:09:12
@ KSC (UTC-4)
7/16
#2π08:56:17 π 11:06:39 !!π!!
#3π14:57:08 π 17:07:30
#4π20:57:59 π 23:08:21
7/17
#1π02:58:50 π 05:09:12
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
crew have had their final pre-mission visit with family, Katgan forecasts 75% favorable weather & all other launch readiness reports have been reviewed & signed off on by @DKerman_KSA. We are π GO π for launch attempt tomorrow! Pre-launch ops begin @ 11:54 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're happy to be hosting another visit from the government. The new committee chair says it will be his first launch experience & he's looking to talk to Lead Scientist Cheranne about larger outreach initiatives for schools twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
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
low-altitude KerBalloon crew will be headed out to sea again for their next contract tho there's a chance they will have to recover the payload from land. The straits between these islands influence Kerblantic storm dev so study of wind patterns here is vital for forecasting
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
storm threat has abated, with the Kerbin Weather Service reporting lack of organized development after a Deuce flight from Sheltered Rock investigated the area. There are still local weather conditions to be concerned about but these we are more familiar with by now
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Flight Director Lanalye reports wet dress rehearsal went well and the rocket has been rolled back to the VAB. While it could most likely withstand the possible high winds & rain while mounted, we see no reason to put it through such a test, especially with a crewed mission
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have the possibility of bad weather later this week, Maritime Service is reporting conditions are ripe for a large low-pressure system developing out over the Kerblantic. Moving up Ascension Mk1 WDR to today, rocket is on the way out to the launch pad
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
that highly-elliptical red orbit in the inner-system diagram is not an error. That is a short-period comet that crosses Kerbin's orbit. Thankfully few of these exist, as the relatively high velocity of comets makes them more dangerous than regular NKOs in similar orbits to Kerbin
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_7-13-20 has been posted with a total of 5,424 asteroids, 2 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 25 asteroids that were discovered this past week
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
Bob's Ascension Mk1 was closed out today and loaded up on the carry vehicle. The crew also finished their last run of sim training. There were a few sim deaths, but FD Lanalye had to come up with some seriously out-there failure scenarios to kill either of them
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
scientists have ruled-out space-related effects now that we have more data on radiation outside the atmosphere. While kerrestrial effects were always more suspect, it is still good science to be able to gather evidence to rule out other factors, however minor they may seem
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
while Bob's mission was able to be scheduled initially to coincide with the eclipse, that is not the primary mission goal and if there are any launch delays Bob has made it clear he will not be spending an extra 3 days in quarantine until the next eclipse
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today kicked off with a kerbolar eclipse, and Mun's shadow raced across the KSC like as seen in this photo from 2017. Another eclipse will happen on 7/16 and the shadow of Mun will cross the Kerblantic underneath Bob's capsule as he views it from above for the first time ever!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we finally know the name of our new rocket supplier - Luciole! They will be meeting with us later this month to discuss plans for future Progenitor rockets, are committed to a 0.625m orbital launch vehicle & are also continuing to develop a 0.625m aerospike engine
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
most are still waiting after a month, because of course the fear is that as soon as they leave it will come. Whether it does or not, we will continue normal operations because either way it's not like we can do anything about it if they are that advanced twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
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, kerbolar wind detection and Kerbin observation (cam opp rad instrument)
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
here's a notable quote from KSA founder & Operations Director @DKerman_KSA: "there's always more to think about when planning spacecraft missions than you think there is to think about when you're thinking about it" *head explodes*
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
Badlands scientific expedition brought home a haul of data that will keep scientists busy for years & KB hi-alt team successfully released both balloons over separate locations. Here is from their original release site bit.ly/Area_F-CDSX. Badlands look deceptively welcoming
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are further tightening security after some young kerbs snuck away from the launchpad tour group and free-climbed the launch tower earlier last month. No one would have known but of course they couldn't resist posting the selfies...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
recent news on KNN about a kerb that found a washed up rocket part and attempted to sell it has been debunked - it's nothing from us. However important PSA: such debris can be toxic or otherwise dangerous and should always be reported not kept!!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here's a look at the various improvements made to the Viklun orbital stage that will fly on the next Mk2 as early as late August. Quad thrusters are to keep the nose from falling too low, dual thrusters are in case it needs to be pushed down a bit more
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
over to the side of the VAB where the Progenitor rockets are assembled two Progeny Mk7-Bs are now completed, with the remaining two Boostertrons waiting on parts to be delivered by USI that were delayed due to their bankruptcy. Back to back launches soon? We hope so too!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill heard about the work on Monolith crystals & reasons the KB program could use them to release short energy bursts at several points during ascent to power heating elements that could melt any ice forming on the envelope. KerBalloon is looking into it with interest
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a strong storm just blew over from off the water, but the Kerbin Weather Service gave us plenty of warning thx to a Deuce storm chaser flight out of Sheltered Rock. Hatches were battened down but only minor flooding occurred. We've seen various flood levels over the years...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
over the next two months the final section of the commercial airport expansion will see completion as ground breaking for the freight warehouses that connect the rail station to the airport hangar complexes has begun today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this newly-completed area of the commercial aviation complex houses facilities for aircraft repair and for fuel trucks to gas up before tanking that fuel into aircraft. Next to be completed will be small hangars off to the left that will house aircraft owned by the KSA/KSC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
staring towards the sun normally camera wouldn't see capsule that well, but so low to Kerbin light is reflecting back to illuminate it. Also did you see Mun? And Minmus?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
have a look at the Gamma Ray Spectrometer retracting back into the capsule as it is detached from the lift stage and begins to orient for re-entry. 5FPS video was beamed back thx to remaining EC on the lift stage batteries, until atmo drag pulled antenna out of alignment
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
shortly after 4th sunset Val was out stargazing to catch Mun, Jool and Minmus all hanging out together near zenith. Tylo, Laythe & Vall are all visible but from our viewpoint appear stacked atop each other so not possible to pick out all three. Urlum is off to the left
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
everyone is already looking forward to sending the last of our crew up into space and now the mission details are available on the Ops Tracker: ops.kerbalspace.agency. The timing of this mission could let Bob see something from space no kerbal has seen before
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
news just came in that Umbra Space Industries, our long-time partner for Progenitor rocket parts that went bankrupt earlier this year, has been bought up - a deal that has been rumored for some time now. More information is expected to be released next month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the view from 426km over the equator is not what you want to be seeing without proper shielding to protect you from being pelted by large amounts of ionized radiation. At apokee, the camera is looking back over the KSC landmass across the ocean to the Great Desert
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here are the final moments we missed after LOS showing we actually came real close to losing the capsule - looks like we cut margins a little too fine in saving mass with smaller chutes - the capsule reached a safe landing speed only 50m above the sea surface!! π¬π¬π¬
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
to be balanced @ MECO meant it had to be unbalanced @ launch, but the fins had enough bite even early in the ascent to keep it from flipping, altho we had hoped the extra forwards pitching moment would make it turn over faster when clearing the tower more than it ended up doing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a fact about the recent Ascension Mk1 mission we neglected to share was how the engine was mounted for the 1st time @ a fixed angle of just 0.0093Β° to overcome the rocket's desire to flip as it exits the atmo under thrust, low fuel changes CoM & no air to help fins hold attitude
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-alt crew have shipped out aboard MSV Lymun to head for bit.ly/Area_G0-XK8 & will return next week. We'd save some funds by letting them use our own ship MSV Aldeny but that's needed here so Bill & Bob can begin working their water recovery drills for July's mission
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
post-launch operations have concluded: flight data collected for analysis, Lead Engineer Simon reports no damage at the launch pad, capsule will be back at KSC tomorrow on a train from Umbarg. Congrats to all the teams on a successful return to rocket flight!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
β¨π KERZZAH!! πβ¨ \[0_o]/ MSV Aldeny has hauled the capsule out onto the deck & reports that it is beat up (this was its 4th flight) but intact. The heatshield however was found floating in pieces that will be collected to determine what happened. Overall tho - mission success!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we at least know the capsule was set for re-entry & if all went well it should be under chute around now for a safe splashdown ~125km downrange, right near where MSV Aldeny is stationed so we should have some news soon on how it fared. Post-launch ops are already in full swing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have confirmation that preparations are underway to get the capsule clear of the lift stage and oriented for re-entry. It has ~40s to do what it needs to do before slamming into the atmo @ 2km/s+. Keep an eye on the Ops Tracker for comms blackout
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
coming up fast on re-entry in <2min. Here is where we will miss the LES, with a very late capsule release from the lifter at only 150km for max science grab, it would have done a much better job pushing clear than the RCS, but RCS should still do the job okay
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
belt was exited @ 342km! We did a near-perfect slice up across the middle as planned. Goo canisters will switch again when re-entering LKO. If you're not still watching the Ops Tracker, these vehicle state updates are being depicted as they happen ops.kerbalspace.agency
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
so far so good! Apokee is lower than planned, as expected. Hatch will now re-open to split the time back down through the belt between the GRS and RPWS. Peak exposure was recorded as 6.816rad/h so we came up a bit short of the densest region, which can be as high as 10rad/h
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
increasing levels of radiation beginning at 342km have triggered the capsule to withdraw the RPWS antenna and seal the hatch so the shielding efficacy can be tested. Magnetometer continues to collect data along with the Goo. Now we hope for no electronic glitches/failures
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
still racing upwards at over 1km/s, the rocket has passed 250km and out of Low-Kerbin Orbit. Goo canisters have switched exposure to prepare the samples that will be exposed to the high-radiation environment of the inner belt, which it should reach sometime in the next 2-3 mins
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this image heralded the coming of science data, confirming the high gain antenna have deployed. You can just make out the north end of the Cape to the right of the antenna base. Apparently we also seem to have lost the LES tower at some point somehow?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MECO to w/in 2 sec! A relatively quick ascent with full burn heading almost straight up. Body rates are minimal & RCS will soon be brought online to stabilize. Flight computer is being purged of ascent instructions to load rest of mission code & kick off the science observations
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rough start, rocket did not pitch over as quick as we would have liked, a bit bumpy through MaxQ but it should smooth out soon as we escape the denser lower atmosphere. Guidance is in phase 2 shallow curve mode & transition was without noticeable issue. Onward to space!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good engine start, nominal chamber pressures at throttle up, launch thrust good - we have LIFT OFF! The 13th Ascension Mk1 heads up to increase our knowledge of the hazardous inner radiation belt. Once clear of the tower engine will throttle to full, guidance will enable
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] RSO has shut down the range, Flight Termination System is now ACTIVE, engine is ARMED. All kerbs should be within designated viewing areas and have hearing protection. Masks are also required as pollen levels are currently HIGH in the area
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] we have reached final countdown procedures, which is the furthest point at which a launch scrub would have to be recycled back to. Hopefully tho any launch issues wouldn't force such a long re-count as our window today is only 15min
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h30m] Lanalye reports launch controllers are standing by, rocket is healthy and primed for flight! Pad crew is back near the rocket again for final closeouts while the Range Safety Officer begins ensuring airspace and waters around KSC are clear & will remain that way
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the guidance computer follows a quadratic fit formula to match the desired pitch curve when plotted against altitude, so the early steep curve won't also fit the later shallow curve and we need to switch at 10km from one to the other. Should be seamless. Should be...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
during the ascent you'll see flight log readouts for "phase 1" and "phase 2" guidance. This is something new we are trying since the ascent profile has such a steep pitch change early and flat the rest of the way as opposed to a more gradual pitch over like for previous missions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h40m] the lights are on in Launch Control as Flight Director Lanalye's Launch Team B reports for final briefing ahead of preflight operations. Here is the ascent and mission plan for today. We barely made the mass limit to get everything we wanted up into the inner belt
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
even though there is practically no room inside the capsule, Bob has still often joked the past couple of days that Jeb's whereabouts should be constantly monitored so that he wouldn't be able to sneak aboard for an extra ride into space
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
earlier at 2nd sunrise crews began to arrive at the launch pad to lower the rocket for late cargo onload of the Mystery Goo samples. It's not just a volatility issue, the samples are also radioactive & thus would have been a minor hazard to pad crew during rollout/WDR yesterday
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Aldeny has set out for the recovery zone ~135km to the east. A rather funny but legitimate concern on this mission was, we are sending the rocket nearly straight up - could Kerbin rotate enough to have it fall back down on us? Thankfully, it's not going high enough for that
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-4)
6/23
#2π07:38:09 π 09:48:29
#3π13:39:00 π 15:49:20 !!π!!
#4π19:39:51 π 21:50:11
6/24
#1π01:40:42 π 03:51:02
@ KSC (UTC-4)
6/23
#2π07:38:09 π 09:48:29
#3π13:39:00 π 15:49:20 !!π!!
#4π19:39:51 π 21:50:11
6/24
#1π01:40:42 π 03:51:02
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
Mk1 rollout was successful and before it will be lifted vertical for mounting to the engine clamp and service towers a comms check was done for both high-gain antennas. Data rates are good, they will be folded back down & the rocket mounted for fueling prior to WDR
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with the HAB practically shut down in the absence of C7 Aerospace, its copious amount of floor space was temporarily partitioned this weekend to allow the KAS Annual Symposium to take place here at KSC for the first time. Alaba was a hot topic as usual
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
if you think all the recent propagation errors with Alaba is something new, guess again. Astronomers have been refining their models for years based on past errors, and will continue to do so for years to come twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we just realized the latest launch needs an updated KSC background to depict the progress made with the commercial airport expansion. Luckily we had some aerial shots handy from late May after the public hangars were finished & ground broken on the KSC-side of things
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
final closeouts were successfully completed today on the Ascension Mk1, now loaded up onto the carry vehicle for roll out on Monday! Congrats to all the teams on getting back to this point, ready to launch a rocket once again after nearly 3 months
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the low-altitude KerBalloon crew did indeed enjoy their last two traversals but this next mission will have them shipping out to sea, which some enjoy more than others. Regardless of personal preference they will tough it out - for SCIENCE!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here is a closer look at the great job the engineering team did cramming batteries into the decoupler for this upcoming mission, which was absolutely necessary to power all the science equipment and beam the data home. More details from @DKerman_KSA: twitter.com/DKerman_KSA/stβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
why are these hangars not enclosed like the small ones you ask? Good question! The airship barons, in their settlement against the aircraft industry (kerbalspace.agency/?p=8988) won some petty privileges, one of which was only airships can be kept in large full surface enclosures
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the hangars for large aircraft (even larger than the Dhumla, someday) have all been completed, allowing for shelter during rainy weather when loading/unloading cargo, which will be stored in warehouses off to the right that have yet to begin construction
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Flight Director Lanalye has been in Launch Control drilling the Launch Team B hard all week. Normally handling Progeny flights, they need to be brought up to speed on Ascension operations. Launch Team A is prepping in the Astronaut Complex to manage Bob's mission next month
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
orientation is well underway this week as Cheranne integrates her new helpers into the research teams. Our internship program has not only brought great talent onboard here at KSC, but helped to foster space and technology companies in general twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb taxis back to the HAB past the public tarmac, which is helping to support KSC through hangar and parking fees. Although we don't directly benefit from such income, the money does support our own interests in overall maintenance of the space complex
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
sometimes both Val & Jeb help each other preflight even if only one is flying, but all times is the check performed properly. Vital to catch problems when you're still on the ground! Civvie is now being prepped for a quarterly check of regional pollen levels
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're launching a rocket next week! π This will mainly be yet another study of the radiation belt and magnetosphere, but also has many secondary objectives. L-0 set for 21:30 UTC - more details about the rocket and the mission on the Ops Tracker: ops.kerbalspace.agency
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
choo choooo! First train has arrived at the Umbarg rail link station, carrying fuel & supplies for our upcoming rocket launches. There will also be trains carrying passengers but mainly the rail service will link to cargo airplane operations
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
#OTD in 2017 Tedman was one of the original 4 Civvie flight instructors (including Aldeny) trained by Jeb & Val. They all completed training this month & the civilian flight instruction program now has 15 instructors teaching pilots at all 3 major airports twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
work is all set to resume in the VAB next week. Progeny Mk7-B assembly atop the 4 boosters will continue while we await launch permission. This month's rocket just needs to be stacked for final closeouts. Bob's ride still has a lot of prep for next month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
not only have the astronauts not slacked off in their training these last few months, they've been forging ahead on plans & ideas for how to prepare for extended stays in space - right now being conservative at just a few days, maybe a week tops. Capsules are tiny!
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
Maritime Service has officially issued a severe storm alert for merchant vessels plying the waters between Umbarg and Sheltered Rock. We are glad to be able to help keep kerbs safe! In the future, we'll play an even more direct role with the launch of weather satellites
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Katgan eagerly awaits as the Deuce taxis back towards the HAB after a smooth landing. HAB techs also await to check over the electrical system to track down the short that caused the flight computer reboot. Crew just happy to be home. Jeb says he's hungry (Val says he always is)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb has been vectored in for a 20km final approach, coming back down to Rwy21. Flaps to full, gear down. Slight crosswind has picked up since they departed but well within aircraft's tolerances. Cleared to land!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've just been hailed by Val (crew switches roles during flight to prevent fatigue), who reports they had good drops from all 4 probes, couldn't see much due to lack of munlight but lots of lightning. Data will tell KWS scientists if this system poses a threat to shipping
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after reprogramming their waypoints & reconfiguring systems, Deuce was once again granted takeoff clearance. Departure was good, Val has the aircraft cleaned up and turned on course towards the storm area after passing thru 800m on runway heading (standard departure)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Flight Director Lanalye granted the aircraft takeoff clearance but Jeb reports their flight computer decided to reboot itself for some reason. Lanalye said she'd notify them of any inbound traffic, to continue holding & call back when ready for renewed clearance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Cdr Val has received clearance to back-taxi, position & hold, pulling out from taxiway B1 as dusk settles over KSC. Air traffic is still light while the larger commercial tarmac remains under construction & only small private craft currently visit every so often
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
in the right seat running nav/comm for the flight out, Cpt Jeb calls in to Flight Control to ask FD Lanalye for permission to taxi to the active runway. Rwy09/27 still closed for repairs but winds are light, choice departure to the southwest via Rwy21 is approved
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
potential severe storm is brewing out in the south Kerblantic according to marine vessels so the Kerbin Weather Service has called for the Deuce to scramble a flight over the area to check it out. Val & Jeb are getting suited up while meteorologist Katgan plans their route
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
once we heard Progeny launches were suspended due to the legal battle involving USI we filed an appeal but it was just denied, leaving the Progenitor program to just continue building the 4 Mk7-Bs already ordered & hoping this mess is cleared up soon so they can launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the ATN is not part of KSA so why do we care so much about Alaba & the study of its orbit? Because this is what our future spacecraft will be doing! Being able to accurately plan ahead multiple encounters with large bodies will be integral to future planetary system exploration
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
however astronomers are now wary of the accuracy past encounter #45, which will see a close Mun pass leading to a large shift in eccentricity and argument of periapsis - the same type of shift that began to throw off the March prediction. Time will tell...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Here is a look at the new long-term propagation, going out 15 encounters over the next year. Alaba seems to yo-yo instead of escape, possibly coming back to crash into Kerbin or Mun. Hi-res 4k plots available:
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Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new orbital data has been posted for bit.ly/_Alaba, set to make its 41st recorded encounter over this coming weekend. Latest observations shows it reaching Mun's SOI nearly 4hrs earlier than what was predicted back in March, which is why a new prediction has been made
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers looking back through archive data for evidence of Vant from before the Impact found it labeled as 3 different stars in various charts, showing just how poorly-organized the study of space was back then, nearly 300 years ago
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
that the clouds seem to stop over the ridgeline of the mountain range known as the Wall is not a coincidence. This large terrain upthrust regularly acts as a frontal boundary and stalls or redirects weather coming from the polar regions, keeping the northern plains temperate
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
contact! Tlm received from the KerBalloon as it passes thru 4.6km & clears the terrain that was blocking it from Kravass aerial. Rising at a nominal rate of ~5m/s on its way up to max alt of 16.5km ASL. Relayed data from the ground crew sends us this img of release looking west
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
12 asteroids is the record for this year so far. That was the *average* for 2019 tho so we're doing pretty good still. Actually no known impacts either, just a lot of cosmic whiffs. This month looks tame by comparison - we've only discovered two on SOI intercept course so far
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
sticking to the highlands & known routes across the northern plains meant no troubles with sink holes and the UTVs carrying the low-alt KerBalloon crew have arrived safely in Kravass. They will set out again tomorrow for the trip north along the Wall to their release site
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
another beautiful day cycle begins here at KSC, looking west at 2nd sunrise from outside the Tracking Station. Weather reports from aircraft flying between KGA/KSC & KGA/UMB: great conditions across the northern plains, good news for our KB crew in transit. Minmus hangs above
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new bit.ly/_Alaba orbital data shows it will be even further off predictions at the next encounter later this wk. After that astronomers will have time to produce a new prediction again through the rest of this year to see if it is still on a course to be ejected by Dec
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new photo of Minmus released by the Kerman Observatory from earlier today prior to Alaba encounter, up at the top we can see the blue orb of Urlum starting to disappear as Minmus occults it. Traveling around the sky on its 6Β° inclination Minmus rarely occults other bodies
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
plenty of eyes on Alaba's 39th recorded Mun encounter earlier today (pe 377km, transit time 4,559s), which did occur 19min earlier than predicted back in Mar, a very large deviation. New orbital data should be up in the next day or so as encounter 40 is not expected to be far off
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
wishing best of luck to the high-altitude KerBalloon crew as they set off on their mission to the Badlands. The expedition will take up to 4-5 weeks to make the most of the journey while also lasting as long as possible in the unforgiving conditions of the area
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Kerblantic remains unusually quiescent with no major storms forming. Figures, as the Deuce remains flight ready and the crew still has ample availability for missions. Right now we are just backup in case of issues with another KWS crew stationed in Kravass or Sheltered Rock
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
opposite the public small hangar tarmac shown finished earlier this month, a tarmac for commercial aircraft is under ongoing construction as well as the paddock that will hold the warehouses, linking to the commercial tarmac to the rail depot. Just about halfway done!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although Alaba's orbital period is now significantly shorter as expected, it took extra time to double & triple check the new orbital data that shows a 9min deviation from March's predictions. For real this time? More info on the Ops Tracker: bit.ly/_Alaba
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
#OTD in 2018 we flew the radial Mystery Goo canister underneath a Deuce to test out Goo exposure via the containment device (mission report: kerbalspace.agency/?p=7290). Later this year the Goo will make another flight up into space in rocket-able radial canisters
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a project Cdr Val has spent the past two years on is finally complete - composite Mun phase waxing to 1/4. Actual time span is ~1.5mo but weather & work didn't always let her capture Mun, which had to be done at the same time for each exposure
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
high-altitude KerBalloon crew have a new contract and will be embarking next week with a science expedition out to the Badlands, the first surface excursion to this inaccessible and inhospitable region of Kerbin since mid-2018. At least this time ATN Central is a waystop
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
join us in wishing Specialist Bob a happy 38th birthday! He may still be the only astronaut on our crew yet to travel into space (ironic, given he was originally selected to be the 1st) but he has a ton of other notable career achievements you can review: ops.kerbalspace.agency/?crew=bob
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
altho it may have more buildings someday the wide open spaces of the R&D campus, seen from atop the hazmat building, are still useful. Props to the KSC groundskeep crew for making it look pristine - filling in the craters, tending to scorched grass, smoothing out tire tracks, etc
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the close pass will bring about a significant change in Alaba's trajectory. This is the key encounter that will set the moonlet on the path to be ejected at the end of the year, if predictions hold. The big change in trajectory will also be a big test for our modeling
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerman Observatory at Kravass is keeping an eye on Alaba as it encounters Mun for the 38th time on record, making its 2nd-closest flyby of this year only 566km above the Munar surface. It is expected to take 1h14m43s to transit through
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this year's annual 5k footrace followed the original 2017 route for the last time. With the KSC's commercial expansion, next year there will be a new route. Thanks to all who came out, as usual our astronauts set the pace - congrats to everyone that managed to keep up!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
located about 250km northwest of the Kongo base, scientists are excited to see it blew up over land and are eager to send out an expedition as they expect the ground to be littered with fragments of all sizes strewn for kilometers
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
keologists sharing data gathered from their various seismic/acoustic stations have finally allowed astronomers to pinpoint where the asteroid that buzzed us repeatedly earlier this month met its end. Triangulation shows it exploded about 16-20km above the surface on the 3rd pass
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
behind the small hangars will be a control tower, set to begin construction later this year, that will handle the increased air traffic soon to be moving in and out of KSC. This will be the first controlled airspace for aircraft - FD Lanalye helped work up the protocols
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
first phase of the new runway complex is now completed with the inner tarmac open for arrivals. It will service small private aircraft & provide shuttles through KSC campus to the Support Village, where kerbs can get rides onwards to Umbarg via road or rail
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new size estimates puts the minor planet's radius at around 60-70km or about half the size of Dres. Astronomer's next major undertaking will be to see if any of 2,000+ known asteroids that could potentially cross its orbit will come near enough to learn more about its density
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
knowing more now about Vant's orbit since its discovery late last year astronomers knew we were at opposition on the 11th and the 10m scope at ATN Central took a look, resolving an object smaller than Dres (but much brighter) and also visibly oblate
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're not naming any names but Rwy09/27 has certainly seen its share of hard landings since it was paved over in late 2018. Now that the new Rwy03/21 is opened for use we'll be shutting down this one for repairs over the next month or so
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
a large rainstorm and the ensuing soggy terrain delayed the low-altitude KerBalloon team on their 657km traversal back to KSC but all three UTVs have finally pulled back into campus after pulling each other out of the mud several times. Glad to have everyone back safely!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today we have reached 1337 status if you count the number of days that have transpired since operations first began in 2016! KERZZAH \[0_o]/ #ksploring @KerbalSpaceP twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
having just been resupplied once again as they pass south of Sheltered Rock, the low-altitude KB crew are continuing on their way home. Perfect weather greeted them for release earlier today, and the payload was recovered without issue
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our bi-weekly Ops Summary has more information on Alaba's latest trajectory analysis and also details on a recent announcement that Umbra Space Industries, long-time supplier for our Progenitor rockets, has gone bankrupt! kerbalspace.agency/?p=10937
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's been documented on numerous occasions flat-Kerbiners talking about the air above them as the "atmosphere". Not a single one of them has called it an "atmoplane". How telling
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Deuce engine overhaul and general 50+ flight hrs maintenance overhaul have both been completed, making it available once again for KWS missions, dependent on the availability of Jeb & Val. The new engines have shaved off a significant 137.5kg each
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the high-altitude KerBalloon crew have now also landed their first contract since Feb. We are happy to see agencies returning to us for more data. The balloon program remains our most reliable, with an overall success rate of 90%
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-altitude KerBalloon caravan departed today to begin their journey to bit.ly/Zone_88TN-K, which will take 10-12 hours of travel time broken up over today and tomorrow. Airships traveling between Sheltered Rock & Umbarg will allow us to relay messages
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
while work continues on the inner tarmac with the small hangars, the taxiways and runway surface for 03/21 are now complete and ready for use. This runway is the only runway that can be used during launch operations & also allows for a crosswind option to 09/27
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our horizontal test stand has been repaired but the kerbs at Periapsis Co. are still working on getting another refurbished booster ready for us to test, hopefully later this month. This will be from the second test conducted back in February
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this past week's findings were boosted by including the first commissioning data from ATN North & South observatories, covering the polar skies. These two telescopes will be key to finding more NKOs in higher inclination orbits when they pass by us
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ATN-DB_5-4-20 has been posted with a total of 5,114 asteroids, 0 of which are updated with new orbital information. Here is a look at all 54 asteroids that were discovered this past week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
right now astronomers do *not* think this was Chikelu, although it was traveling north to south the inclination difference was too extreme to consider without incredible evidence. Meanwhile, kerbs at the surface colony site south of Ockr did see that first pass!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
there have been no additional asteroid sightings since yesterday so it either blew up or impacted somewhere. At some point we may know as keologists gather data from seismic/acoustic stations on land & buoys at sea but that will be in their own time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
again, no explosion seen the trail just faded out as the asteroid re-entered space for another go-around. Rough estimate given Kerbin's rotation since the last pass means Arekibo could possibly see it on the next one
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this just came in from the Kongo! Sensors wired to the outpost alerted them and being already on the surface photos were able to be captured before the asteroid passed out of sight - likely the same one in a decaying orbit that passed over Ockr earlier
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it was likely an asteroid traveling thru the atmosphere, but no explosion was detected - at least not from the sensors wired directly to Ockr. Ones further south, in the direction the booms were headed, will have additional data but it won't be collected until at least tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
reports coming from Ockr of sonic booms picked up by nearby seismic stations, which are also equipped with acoustic sensors. It is nite over there but unfortunately the sky camera was just taken offline yesterday for maintenance & no one got to the surface in time to see anything
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/KerBalloonProg⦠have finalized a contract to carry out two releases over land. The crew will use UTVs and an airship from Sheltered Rock will resupply them. This will be the longest overall traversal to date but having not done any recently they are looking forward to it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
(waxing) π π π π π π π π (waning) - the phase cycle we see for Mun takes 1d, 14h36m24s to complete. For Minmus it takes 12d, 11h15m11s
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
while we haven't yet decided when to enact it, a formal program for astronaut crew training was finalized this past month by our existing crew & the Ascension program administration. @DKerman_KSA has just signed off on it and we look forward to one day welcoming our first kadets!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VAB construction remains on hold until at least next month while procedures remain under review. The first completed Progeny Mk7-B has been re-examined for another round of final checks and the next booster to be assembled for flight is awaiting inspection
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the IEF have pledged further financial support should we succeed at the upcoming unkerbed Ascension Mk1 mission that will further explore what we now know are the radiation belts. We have also accepted some of their members onboard for the Extremis program twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this infographic has details as to why catching this event is so rare and difficult. Also not mentioned is that given the relative positions of Kerbin & Eve the transit can occur during daylight or over the hemisphere we don't have large observatories on!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
success at last! The Kerman Observatory just released this photo (upper right) of Eve taken earlier today with a dark splotch on its southern hemisphere - it's the extremely diffuse shadow of Gilly! Digital zoom image is shown upright with Gilly's bright but small speck circled
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
With Mun covering up Kerbol as it nears 4th sunset, Minmus is no longer hidden in its glare and we see its south pole lit up. It is only 0.6Β° short of its max inclination of 6Β° from Kerbin's orbital plane, so visually as far as it can be from the sun
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
final sunset of the day fast approaching with brilliant flair while Mun rises higher. Some rough weather passed through recently but that always seems to bring out the best of nature afterwards
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
just barely visible by the naked eye under Munless skies, Vant's either similar in size to Dres or smaller but more reflective. Spectral analysis (icy compounds) favors the latter. Its orbit has only just been constrained & lots more study yet to do on this new world!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Dres has long been considered sole occupant of the Main Belt asteroid region, but a small group of astronomers questioned this assumption & have been rewarded in their yrs-long search with the discovery of a new minor planet! Today the Kerbal Astronomical Society recognizes: Vant
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
next reason will take longer to rule out as more sky will need to be searched. Without fully knowing its internal composition, its possible a gas pocket exploded with enough force in the right direction at the right time (near apokee) to alter its inclination
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers are still working through plausible reasons for Chikelu's disappearance. Close scrutiny of its last-known trajectory over the last month has found no debris, so breakup from tidal stress due to its highly eccentric orbit is unlikely
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today Moho is at greatest western elongation, making it visible early before sunrise. To help make sense of the movement seen here over several days, its orbit is shown from Kerbin's current perspective. It speeds up as it nears perikelion
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
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
a hazy start to the 3rd day cycle at sunrise earlier, looking out over the KSC campus from Building B of the Support Village. Fog off the ocean occurs often & is why we usually don't launch at sunrise, in addition to just having better visibility for post-launch video analysis
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this weekend is orientation for the new interns that will be serving the next 4 months under direction of Wernher Von Kerman and his R&D team. The program is set to expand later this year to also include Lead Scientist Cheranne's field research department
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Sorlon's physical data has been updated with some new estimates for mass and rotational period. As it continues to get closer astronomers should be able to get a better idea of its shape (hence a more accurate rotation period). Light curves are showing it could be rather oblong
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rather than repair the faulty prop governors that gave the Deuce issues last mission the engines are in the process of being overhauled completely - aircraft is due for servicing anyways after flying over 50 hours. Will end up saving mass with newer, lighter components
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
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
scientists over in the R&D labs are getting Mystery Goo samples rdy for containment so they can be launched into space aboard a Mk1-A capsule later this year. Goo has been launched into space before (with Progeny rockets) but this will be the 1st use of radial-mounted containers
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have a new static display out on the KSC main lawn for visitors to check out starting this weekend! The Ascension Mk2 & its payload Kerbin I, 1st to orbit Kerbin, join the Ascension Mk1 that carried up the 1st kerbal to space & the Progeny Mk4 that 1st made it past 70km
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
here is a look at the track of Eve as seen from KSC as it "rounds the bend" in its orbit, reaching greatest eastern elongation early next month before racing towards inferior conjunction. That it doesn't move straight up and down is due to its inclined orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
smooth landing and roll out, Deuce is now taxiing back to the HAB. Kat is eager to get her data offloaded and further analyzed while mechanics are standing by to have a close look at the propeller governors
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
doing some quick troubleshooting on the downwind leg the crew discovered the lever needed to really be jammed open to get the reversers to engage. Val is now beginning her base leg turn for another landing attempt
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Val is going around after calling a missed approach. When applying power to slow the aircraft on short final the blades were not reversed so with speed increasing she had no choice but to climb back out and give her and Jeb time to assess the problem
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after Jeb got back in touch with us 8mins ago Flight Control gave Val vectors to line up for a straight-in approach to Rwy27. All 4 dropsondes were deployed without issue - despite mass shift of dropping one at a time, aileron trim was able to hold wings level
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
flight crew should be over the storm by now & deploying dropsondes. Burning fuel, aircraft would have risen higher, giving the probes time to freefall before their chutes are deployed for a ~15min descent to the water. Data is beamed back to the aircraft, they are not recovered
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
both the sun and the aircraft have set over opposite horizons. Here is a sunset photo from ~10min ago as the Deuce climbed through 4km for initial cruise altitude of 5km, which is the ideal altitude from which to deploy the dropsonde probes
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no problems on departure, the extra 832kg carried under the wings is well-within the aircraft's limits with reduced fuel onboard (yet still enough for an alternate airport). Climbing through 800m Jeb has cleaned up the aircraft and begun to turn on course back towards the ocean
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're finally able to take action on a call from the KWS to investigate a storm over the Kerblantic reported by the Maritime Service. Aircraft crew is being briefed and forming a flight plan for departure later today at 3rd sunset while HAB readies Deuce w/dropsondes for rollout
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
both ATN/DSN North & South are undergoing commissioning operations for their telescopes and radio dishes over the next 4 months. They will then be serviceable for future orbital missions with high inclination orbits as well as increase asteroid discovery rates
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
second sunrise just a short while ago saw a nearly full Mun (just recently exiting Kerbin's shadow) setting behind the mountains with Minmus hanging above, taken from out near the shore looking back at the KSC with a telephoto lens by Specialist Bob
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
with the new runway & tarmac on the northside of KSC nearing completion, the southside of the original runway has begun work on the tarmac that will connect the HAB to the freight warehouses. It will hold hangars for large & small aircraft as well as fuel/maintenance facilities
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
10 known flybys and 1 impact add up to an average month. We are happy to see the increasing trend of 2018-2019 continues to fall off. So far for April there have only been 3 asteroids discovered to be on course for intercept with Kerbin's SOI
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VAB will be making use of the down time to upgrade their spin table to handle payloads larger than 0.625m in diameter, the first of which could be the Extremis I probe that is still under design twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
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
good static fire of the K2-X engine for the unkerbed Mk1 mission was carried out today. Although it will not be used as soon as planned due to the operational suspension, testing it now ensures any major defects could be addressed to not further delay the already delayed mission
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
β¨π Happy Birthday!! πβ¨ Specialist Bill turns 41 today π He's hanging out with friends and family at home in nearby Umbarg. You can review his career history and achievements with us on his Ops Tracker crew page - kerbalspace.agency/Tracker/trackeβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with speculation running rampant about Chikelu, a large influx of pilgrims have arrived to worship at the Monolith temple. We remind everyone that KSC campus is off-limits and security has been increased. Tour buses and temple buses are clearly marked at the Support Village!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
as far as we know, right now, it's no longer where it is supposed to be and so far no trace of it has been found but we're not involved in the search so not sure how much of the sky has been canvassed looking for it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the new runway 03/21 looks like our original runway did and will be paved and painted over the next month along with the remainder of its adjoining taxiway. It should be serviceable by early May to provide more options to crosswind scenarios (and during launches)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
everyone is stunned the scientific community tried to cover this up, seemingly under direction of the government. Of course the Monolithic followers are having a field day about the "disguised space ship". We'll have the latest developments in today's Ops Summary
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's finally been confirmed, although notably this was forced out by the amateur astronomy community. bit.ly/Chikelu was last confirmed in stable orbit prior to our Ascension Mk2 mission & has since gone missing - tho when & how it disappeared exactly remains unknown
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
Captain Jeb has returned to KSC after staying to visit friends and family in Ockr. He's now prepping to dive into mission training/operations review next week with the rest of the crew. No doubt his antics on the recent mission will be a subject of hot debate
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers have the remainder of this year to study bit.ly/_Alaba before it gets chucked back out into sun orbit, according to the new long-term prediction just released today. High res version on flickr: flickr.com/gp/kerbal_spacβ¦
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
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
our next launch remains on schedule as the VAB completed stacking the Progeny Mk7-B today. Now laid back horizontal, final close out procedures have begun, which will continue into tomorrow before the rocket is loaded up onto the carry vehicle for rollout early the following day
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here's a better look at Mun setting from Captain Jeb's mission. Breathtaking! The redness comes from light bending through the atmosphere, seen as just a thin layer of protectiveness. Really puts things in perspective
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
work progressing well on the KSC commercial airport expansion project, with about half of the hangars on the inner tarmac completed. These will house small aircraft while across the runway by later this year will be shelters erected for larger aircraft
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
as the previous known asteroid gets set to exit today, LWF-533(E) will take its place, now entering our SOI for a pass of only 4.14 Munar Distance. Pass average this month has been a comfortable 2.69 MD. Unfortunate that "up close" studies are so dangerous w/o space craft
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
altho Jeb's actions did not endanger the mission, Flight Director Lanalye & @DKerman_KSA agree that he should be reprimanded. Lanalye wanted to kick him out of a rotation *and* make him ineligible for 1st in orbit, but Drew has decided he only loses the chance to be 1st in orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Capsule photos from Jeb's mission!
1) Looking back towards KSC, now covered by clouds that moved in shortly after launch
2) Looking towards splashdown zone from apokee
3) Mun setting
4) Looking south from ~160km
1) Looking back towards KSC, now covered by clouds that moved in shortly after launch
2) Looking towards splashdown zone from apokee
3) Mun setting
4) Looking south from ~160km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the number of seconds from the start of the day in which the KSA began operations (9/13/16) to today at 07:05:33 was 111222333 #thelittlethings
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this still happens, but less frequently and only consisting of older kerbs. Progress! twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today Jeb got a hero's parade in his home cavern of Ockr. In his public address he spoke of how beautiful and pristine Kerbin looked from above and how he hopes the efforts to recolonize the surface that are gaining more & more momentum work to ensure it stays that way
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after extensive examination Jeb was given a clean bill of health & released by the medical team at Sheltered Rock. He'll be sharing a meal with the Presider today, has another engagement tomorrow & then will be traveling back to KSC next week after some well-earned personal time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
sun has set but the capsule has been recovered w/o issue thx to night exercises as part of standard mission training. Here's a photo Jeb took while waiting. Photos from space will also be released in the coming days. Congrats to all the teams on another successful kerbed mission!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb has confirmed he is afloat, capsule is not sinking nor taking on water. While he can unstrap & stand on the seat to stretch a bit he'll have to wait for MSV Aldeny to haul him out of the water before he can exit the capsule. Taking a swim is for emergencies only. Even for him
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
SPLASHDOWN! Welcome home to our latest space voyager - Captain Jeb! While his rash action failed at allowing him to break Val's records for altitude & duration as he'd hoped, leaving him slightly unsatisfied, he readily admits the experience was still worth it.β¨π Kerzzah! πβ¨
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
full chute deployment, confirmed by MSV Aldeny ~20km away able to full-frame it this time with a telephoto lens as capsule drifts down at ~6m/s in the soft glow of sunset. Flotation collar is armed & heat shield will be dumped just before hitting the water
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
cheers & applause in Launch Control as Jeb contacts us to confirm chute deploy! Chutes are reefed & continue to decelerate him but the worst is over, similar to Val he dealt with +10G (11.2 max) for 6 seconds. MSV Aldeny hasn't had much time to get underway but are <30min out
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
blazing through the atmosphere now, we expect plasma blackout to occur at any second (ops.kerbalspace.agency will show it happening) and last up to 30-60s, after which we should get confirmation of chutes popping. Descent profile at reentry was nominal
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
without causing any more hassle Jeb has the capsule prepped for re-entry, heat shield facing forward & LES decoupled. He will also place the capsule into a roll to help ensure the radial chutes do not get cooked. He's been looking forward to this - the centrifuge can't sim it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with awe in his voice Jeb says he just witnessed a beautiful sight watching Mun set, although that's really from his capsule falling back down and now passing through 200km he has to reluctantly leave the window and begin preparations for re-entry
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
and Jeb continues to not earn any points today when he refuses the suggestion to decouple the LES tower, saying he finds the extra effort to maneuver the capsule makes it easier to control. That is within his purview, however, as capsule commander. Coming up on apokee in <30s
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb is unstrapped & floating in 0G, taking photos out the capsule window. Flight surgeon says all vitals are nominal. Lanalye is still livid but at this point in the mission there is no other need for the LES' alternate backup uses & splashdown zone shifted by only ~20km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
LES push motors were triggered from within the capsule shortly after RCS push, increasing apokee to 244km. This was *not* a planned or approved action & FD Lanalye is turning purple. Jeb is actually trying to convince her that he accidentally bumped the (covered) switch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MECO 3km short of target altitude, rocket is a bit shallow on ascent with an apokee of 206km instead of 239km as planned. Capsule has been released & will push away on RCS thrust, then Jeb will flip over to look back at lifter & confirm good sep and increasing distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb says he's "loving the real deal" as flight continues into the upper-atmosphere w/ only minor "roll-shake" turbulence. Thrust is <50% but pitch authority remains nominal. Passing above 30km Jeb will soon get a kick as the engine throttles to full @ 40km ASL in the next minute
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
smooooth flight so far, engine performance nominal. Guidance right on track. Telemetry is dropping in & out but Jeb's calling out good instrument readings, all systems nominal. Rocket is through MaxQ and about to go supersonic, where the ride could start getting a little bumpy
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
LIFT OFF of the 12th Ascension Mk1 carrying Captain Jebediah up on his first trip into space! As the rocket clears the tower guidance will enable, throttle will push up to and hold 1.5 TWR. Once Jeb stops laughing maniacally he should begin calling out instrument readings
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-1m] back to the final seconds once again. Flight surgeon reports Jeb's heart rate is elevated as expected, no doubt as he asks himself - "can this finally be happening??" Tune in now to find out live if T-30s polls are GO via streaming telemetry: ops.kerbalspace.agency
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-2m] "GO! GO! GO!" yelled Jeb over the comms when asked for his status to move into terminal count, a play on the other word we do *not* want to hear called out three times at any point in the next two minutes. Capsule power internal, comms RF. EC monitoring active
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
yellow flag just popped up next to the wind readings on the main display at Launch Control. Everyone's trying to not look at it but of course it can't be ignored. If winds continue to increase and it goes red... no, we're not thinking about it. But we're still watching it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] final general polling has come back GO from all stations! Jeb is switching his suit over to internal capsule systems while the FTS does the same. Rocket fuel tanks will soon add pressure for rigidity to prep for service boom retraction. A hush falls over the crowd outside
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] rocket is ARMED for ignition, LES & FTS both ACTIVE. Any incursion to the airspace exclusion zone, downrange ascent marine corridor or 500m ground blast safety radius will immediately halt the count. You don't want to be the one to make Jeb even more frustrated
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] with the launch team still working no issues, fair weather both here and in the recovery zone where MSV Aldeny sailed back to yesterday, we have a GO for final countdown procedures to commence. Launch pad is evacuated and RSO is preparing to close the range
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h30m] pre-launch ops continuing without issue, preparing now to send up the second weather balloon for a final check of upper-level conditions. Winds are picking up on the surface but trending within expected limits. Jeb's latest comment is "can we get going already?"
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h55m] we have a GO for tanking ops. Flight computer is online and Monolith chilldown was performed earlier today to withhold the formation of storms. FD Lanalye is making sure no one is treating these operations as "routine", so soon from last time. Complacency is dangerous!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-4)
3/20
#2π08:15:57 π 10:26:17 !!π!!
#3π14:16:48 π 16:27:08
#4π20:17:39 π 22:27:59
3/21
#1π02:18:30 π 04:28:50
@ KSC (UTC-4)
3/20
#2π08:15:57 π 10:26:17 !!π!!
#3π14:16:48 π 16:27:08
#4π20:17:39 π 22:27:59
3/21
#1π02:18:30 π 04:28:50
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
drainback of remaining propellants is underway after a successful static fire. We lit the engine, ran it to launch thrust & for good measure throttled it up to ascent TWR of 1.5, held it for 10s then went to full for 30. Not a full burn but enough to feel confident about tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb's Ascension Mk1 has been rolled out to the pad to be hooked up & fired. We don't plan to do this before every launch moving forward, but in this case with time already wasted we certainly don't want to go through all the trouble again of reaching T-0 to suffer a similar issue
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
rolling out of a smooth landing, Val flew 365km during her mission. She will taxi back to park in front of the HAB. Meanwhile over in R&D Lead Scientist Cheranne and her team will get cracking on the data they should have had a month ago
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
1st area done, Val is taking the scenic route north to the 2nd & final area, saying the views are worth the bumpy ride. Cabin heater on, it's only 35Β°F (1.57Β°C) up there @ 3.5km. Scientists receiving data from the Atmospheric Fluid Spectro-Variometer say it's performing nominally
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no problems this time on departure, Val has cleared 1km ASL, now on course heading 255Β° over the grasslands to the west to gather her first batch of readings, crossing the area multiple times while ascending up to flight ceiling of 3.5km to stay VFR out of clouds near the mtns
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Commander Val is preparing to take the Civvie out again to complete the mission she had to abort last month when the throttle cable snapped after takeoff. She will collect air samples in the region to gather data on pollen levels to help scientists forecast air quality
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Scientist Cheranne & her field research team have returned from gathering atmospheric radiation data in Kerbin's upper polar atmosphere. She looks forward to applying their findings to future surface missions in the area that could test radiation-hardened habitats
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with more time now before the mission launches, Jeb has implored the design team to see if they can't go back & squeeze out a bit more altitude so he can break Val's records. Ascension project management declined the ascent review, saying mission is locked twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Engineer Simon reports the engine for Jeb's rocket developed a bad fuel flow sensor in the time between static fire and launch. They will replace the part, seek higher quality from the manufacturer, and have the engine ready again for Bob's mission in April
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
there's also the lack of orbital updates from the ATN, which observes the moonlet each perikee pass. Last one was 2/28. There should have been an update around 3/11. Still no word either from Arekibo on the lack of radar images. If KAS lying about it being there, doing a poor job
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
last week two separate amateur astronomers reported being unable to observe Chikelu. Kerbal Astronomical Society assured them it's there. Since then however more reports of being unable to spot the asteroid have begun to come out - but none yet from actual astronomers
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the crew capsule for our high-G centrifuge at the Umbarg HQ has been modified with a mock up of flight controls so the astronaut's next mission training can allow them to practice actions under G load rather than (or in addition to) just simply trying to remain conscious
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
"Stillness is a relative notion,
The universe is always in motion."
- a short poem by Bob Kerman
#KSPloring @KerbalSpaceP
The universe is always in motion."
- a short poem by Bob Kerman
#KSPloring @KerbalSpaceP
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the flight crew have physical exercises from the medical team as well as textbook training to keep them busy & tip-top this week. Flight Director Lanalye is keeping her controllers on task as well, with more drills scheduled all the way up to roll-out later this week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our new Atmospheric Fluid Spectro-Variometer has arrived, lightly refined (2nd img) from its original model purchased back in 2017. It can now handle air speeds up to 124m/s with the scoops open and is being attached to the Civvie for a flight later this week with Cdr Val
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
commercial expansion project continues apace as the taxiway adjacent to Rwy09/27 has been completed, which will link up to a central tarmac containing hangars and ATC, which will provide access to the new Rwy03/21, which also just finished grading and will soon begin surfacing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π« KERZZAH! β - 12 times we have now traveled around Kerbol since the KSA was founded - at 1,025,316,660.821km distance traveled we are just 3 light minutes shy of a light hour's travel time over the same distance. Spaceship Kerbin is tooling along at a constant 9.28km/s
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
still no diagnosis on Jeb's engine, but luckily we don't have to wait for one because the engine for Bob's flight is tested and ready. Lead Engineer Simon says they can swap it for another launch attempt next week, now targeting lift off on 3/20 @ 16:15 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
4 months of digging has completed the 45km railway tunnel linking Umbarg to KSC, which will carry freight to and from the cavern so that aircraft can deliver it to and from across Kerbin as the commercial expansion of the Kerbal Space Center continues throughout this year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
medical team gave Jeb his games back while he remains stuck in quarantine. Although they tend to get him a bit worked up at times, better than having him depressed thinking about the continued setbacks in his attempts to get up into space
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch activities are complete, a frustrated Jeb is back in the AC, rocket is back in the VAB and MSV Aldeny is making for port in Sheltered Rock. Ascension team will convene tomorrow to discuss options for another attempt to allow time for initial engine inspection
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
propellant drainback has been completed, service arm will now be swung away again so the rocket can be lowered for Jeb to egress from the capsule and head back to the Astronaut Complex. He and Bob will remain in quarantine until a decision is made on the next launch attempt
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we got Jeb calmed down, rocket is once again safed, including FTS & LES. We have to rehook the service boom to drain propellants before the rocket can be lowered so Jeb will have to stew out there for a while yet. At least hookup means he has continuous power for climate control
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[ABORT] "NOOOOOOOOOO!" came Jeb's holler over the comms, followed by banging noises, as he felt the rumble of the engine subside. AFCS has still failed to detect proper lift off thrust and we will have to unfortunately scrub today's launch & rollback for a good look at the engine
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-2m] back in terminal count, AFCS once again has control. Power levels have continued to drop since first terminal count but we still have enough battery life to give this another shot. Fuel usage from 1st attempt won't have any large impact on ascent plans
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] once again back to general polls, all GO. Rocket is rearmed for ignition & AFCS is back to waiting for terminal count. Everything will proceed as before (except pressurization, already completed) and hopefully this time the engine will perform as expected
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
work is underway to reboot the flight computer & reload op code to make sure that wasn't an issue. Lift off now targeted for 16:15 UTC. This is one of the faster launch recycles that controllers will have to perform but FD Lanalye is confident in her team's training
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no one is finding anything unusual in the data leading up to lift off so we will try again. K2-X cannot be relit in flight but on the ground we can restart it as many times as needed. If this 2nd attempt fails tho launch will be scrubbed for a more detailed engine investigation
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket engine is safed, clock reset to L-5min. Jeb is of course frustrated & altho rocket would have still gone upwards at launch w/1.18 TWR, failure to set thrust properly could mean it also doesn't throttle up enough later in flight to make it to space, which would be a waste
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[ABORT] AFCS threw an automated hold just before lift off when it did not detect proper launch thrust setting. RSO is working with Jeb to safe the rocket while controllers take a close look at the telemetry data to determine whether this is an issue that can be overcome w/o scrub
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3m] prelim fuel tank pressurization underway to increase rigidity & allow the rocket to stand on its own atop the engine support clamp once the service tower boom swings away in the next minute. Jeb will call out his own GO shortly to confirm he is prepped for terminal count
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill is walking Jeb through a final suit integrity check followed by the switch over to internal capsule life support ahead of terminal countdown. Controllers are glued to their monitors, making final checks as well in prep for FD Lanalye to conduct final general GO/NO GO polls
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-13m] late onload of pressurization gas underway. Modifications made to the upper liquid fuel bulkhead moved the nitrogen tanks up higher and necessitated that we also raise the capsule up a bit as well, creating a small enshrouded interstage gap
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] RSO has confirmed airspace is clear out to our 20km exclusion zone & ascent corridor over the water is empty of vessels. Rocket Flight Termination System is ACTIVE, engine ignition ARMED. Jeb's heart rate slightly elevated as he rapidly taps his foot. Impatience, he says
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] Kat & her weather team confirm surface conditions remain green throughout our daytime launch window & we have a GO to enter into final countdown! Launch control resetting after a clean rehearsal to link back up with the live rocket. Jeb is humming contently to himself
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
checking in with MSV Aldeny out in the recovery zone and in range of Ockr Relay they confirm weather and sea conditions remain good for splashdown. We're still evaluating ascent accuracy and whether for future missions to have a land target to use in event of rough seas
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h20m] another high-altitude balloon has been released so we can get updated information on upper-level conditions before the general polling at L-5min. Wind shear constraints are a bit tighter due to the new extended interstage between the capsule and fuel tank
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
"Rolling left. Check?"
"Check"
"Pitching up. Check?"
"Check"
....
call/response continues between Jeb & the pad crew as he manipulates the manual controls & they confirm movement. Rocket may operate under automated control but the kerb aboard still has plenty of preflight tasks
"Check"
"Pitching up. Check?"
"Check"
....
call/response continues between Jeb & the pad crew as he manipulates the manual controls & they confirm movement. Rocket may operate under automated control but the kerb aboard still has plenty of preflight tasks
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h55m] we have a GO to begin tanking operations. Monolith chilldown in effect, no change to atmospheric pressure. Launch Escape System is armed & Jeb actually knows from past experience that if the tank happens to blow up he'll be safe from harm
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb's rocket is using the old-style fins but they are also the newer lighter versions, so his rocket masses 59kg less than Val's. It's amazing how much difference that can make, his ascent profile required completely different angle & power settings to still land near Ockr Relay
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h40m] rocket mounting proceeding well, Flight Director Lanalye's A team of launch controllers is now assembling for final mission briefing. Like past kerbed flights, Jeb's mission will primarily be to measure physical response to 0G & re-entry forces
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h41m] crew loading underway a few minutes late - FD Lanalye had given the pad crew special instructions to *not* allow Jeb to climb up on the rocket again. After his attempts were foiled he then refused to pose for a new photo and began to climb into the capsule
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-4)
3/12
#2π07:48:45 π 09:59:05 !!π!!
#3π13:49:36 π 15:59:56
#4π19:50:27 π 22:00:47
3/13
#1π01:51:18 π 04:01:38
@ KSC (UTC-4)
3/12
#2π07:48:45 π 09:59:05 !!π!!
#3π13:49:36 π 15:59:56
#4π19:50:27 π 22:00:47
3/13
#1π01:51:18 π 04:01:38
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h57m] crew shuttle departed on schedule 3 min ago and is now passing Launch Control on its way to the pad with Jeb aboard. Bob will remain in the Astronaut Complex suited up and ready to replace Jeb at any time. According to Jeb that time would be "over my dead body!"
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the flight crew are being roused from bed, will be given their choice breakfast and then proceed to get suited up. They aren't the only ones up super early - weather team is out to release a high-altitude balloon and pad crew is heading out to lower the rocket
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
storm has blown past, not over. Weather for tomorrow is looking 90% GO. Final readiness reports were reviewed & approved by @DKerman_KSA. Crew remains healthy & Jeb is chomping at the bit. Launch prep begins tomorrow @ 10:35 UTC if weather conditions hold
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
hrm that tweet did come across a bit sensationalist. Our bad. Arekibo is performing some delicate radio observations and thus we cannot use the ground station, but thankfully no need for this mission. They still maintain contact via the ground cable, but refuse to speak about Chikelu
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
images of bit.ly/Chikelu were planned to be taken & released by the Arekibo Radio Observatory this week but so far there has been nothing and no one is saying why. In fact, the whole observatory has gone quiet - thankfully we don't need them for this upcoming mission
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
latest report from the KWS shows that we will likely get hit by the outer bands of the storm so launch has been delayed further until tomorrow, now targeting lift off @ 15:45 UTC. Further delays are possible - we will see what happens with the weather later today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-4)
3/11
#2π07:45:21 π 09:55:41
#3π13:46:12 π 15:56:32 ??π??
#4π19:47:03 π 21:57:23
3/12
#1π01:47:54 π 03:58:14
@ KSC (UTC-4)
3/11
#2π07:45:21 π 09:55:41
#3π13:46:12 π 15:56:32 ??π??
#4π19:47:03 π 21:57:23
3/12
#1π01:47:54 π 03:58:14
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Alaba is now undergoing its 34th recorded encounter with Mun, remaining on track with the updated prediction made last month that changed last year's original 3/17 encounter date. It will make a closest pass of 1.8Mm and take 45m55s before exiting. DSN Central has eyes on
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerblantic storm is growing and heading in our direction. Models show it could swing wide - we won't have a better idea until early tomorrow so we've pushed the launch back to the next day cycle, now targeting lift off at 20:42 UTC. All other launch aspects are GO!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
wet dress rehearsal was good and identified a minor valve issue in the GSE that will be rectified by tomorrow so no hold up for launch. Although propellants are stable tanks have been drained so the rocket can be lowered again for crew loading
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's the crack o' dawn and the Ascension Mk1 is on its way to the launch pad, where it will be erected and later today tanked up as part of the wet dress rehearsal as final steps are taken today to prepare the Space Center for launch tomorrow!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KWS has dispatched another flight from Sheltered Rock as the storm out to sea continues to develop. Not sure at this time whether or not it will head our way but if so it could disrupt our launch plans. They will be keeping us informed of the data that is collected
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our recovery ship MSV Aldeny, docked in Umbarg, has begun the ~30hr journey out to the planned landing zone. Given how close we were with Val's landing, we hope launch modeling improvements means we get a much better shot of Jeb's capsule descending under chutes this time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the doctors finally had to take away Jeb's video games - not because he wasn't getting enough sleep but his stress levels were staying quite high. He's a bit of an angry gamer... Bob in contrast has been working on his meditation twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerbin Weather Society called for a flight to investigate a gathering storm out on the Kerblantic but with Jeb in quarantine and no additional flight crew to assist Val we had to tell them to send the crew out from Sheltered Rock instead. Good thing we own our aircraft...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although the flight crew is quarantined inside the Astronaut Complex they are not simply confined to quarters. This is a dedicated section adjacent to the medical wing which also has a viewing room to allow friends & family to talk to the crew before their mission
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we forgot to mention that astronomers have actually been studying objects like these for a while now, but have failed to draw any conclusions. Future space telescopes or even probes sent out to the Main Belt may help one day twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb & Bob are both in quarantine, sequestered in the Astronaut Complex and visited only by the medical staff, who are collecting baseline readings and making sure both remain in good health and are getting enough rest. They haven't taken away any of Jeb's games yet tho
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
once again Jeb comes out of sim training with the most mission successes. He says he wishes he and Val were a permanent crew pairing so they could go head to head more often (Jeb is Val's backup in the rotation). Bob may have lagged, but still learned from all his mistakes
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
and with the 3rd successful SRB test firing early today the Progenitor team have locked in the first Progeny MK7-B launch date for 3/26 @ 21:32 UTC! Final mission details are still being worked out, expect an Ops Tracker entry sometime next week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ππ happy 39th birthday π to Commander Valentina! ππ Here's to many more π₯ learn more about Val's background and service history on her Ops Tracker page: ops.kerbalspace.agency/?crew=val
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
repairs on the Civvie are wrapping up, Deuce has been cleared for flight once again and the Genesis program has been assigned a new lead mechanic. The team is also moving forward on their latest design - an update for the single-prop general aviation aircraft class
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
as mission training nears a close Flight Director Lanalye has commented that she's pleased to see Jeb & Bob getting along better now, although there have still been a few instances where Jeb's sense of humor bordered on inappropriate twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
tickets are going fast for this upcoming launch that will see kerbals returning to space! There will be no VIP visitors and all viewing sites at KSC will be available. As always the non-ticketed areas are first-come first-serve and overflow will be held at the Support Village
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
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
the K2-X engine for Spc Bob's mission had a successful static fire out on the vertical test stand today. We continue to target an early April launch to get our last astronaut aboard a rocket and have a space ribbon pinned on them afterwards
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
while it's disappointing that we can't determine how far off we were in our prediction, ultimately the stage was always fated to crash back to Kerbin even originally & we are just glad it didn't come down atop any of the few surface installations along its path - including us!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
still no report of bolides that could have matched the Viklun stage's orbital plane. Cameras will remain in place just for the sake of general observation but at this point we are pretty confident it fell either in the ocean or between DSN Central & Arekibo (rough approximation)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
newly-discovered asteroid RIC-094(E) has an orbit that initially categorized it as a member of the Main Belt family but appears more like a Comet in composition based on spectroscopic analysis. How it got there is a puzzle that astronomers are looking forward to solving
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
one benefit to living underground & losing sync with the sun/stars is getting to just make up days. Every 4 calendar years adds an extra day for no reason other than to slack off, eat, drink & be merry. Be chill everyone, and have a happy Karnaval Day! πππ₯
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
still no word from any surface installations on Viklun's return. Some fireballs spotted but none tracked from the proper orbital plane. Well shucks, we were really hoping for our prediction to be accurate w/in a day. Still possible it came down between Arekibo/DSN Central though
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Captain Jeb will get his second chance to go to space next month! Mission has gotten its final approval, launch date has been decided for 3/11 @ 14:40 UTC. More information on the mission can be found at the Ops Tracker - ops.kerbalspace.agency
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerbin I has come home! There was a lot more of the probe that survived re-entry than expected, which will make for interesting post-flight analysis. Lead Scientist Cheranne & her team with the high-alt KB crew are set to depart aboard this Dhumla when it heads back to the Kongo
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
another successful test firing of the latest Boostertron II was carried out today. We will get two more next month; the 1st one will be one final test to ensure manufacturing reliability, if good the 2nd will be integrated for flight with the first Progeny Mk7-B in late March
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the peace mission sent to make contact with the exiled tribe has returned with news that no contact was made in the known areas. They were not equipped to actually go in search of them and now the discussion among political & religious leaders is whether or not anyone should
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
groundwork for the taxiways and new runway has been completed, next work will start on building up the inner tarmac while surfacing gets underway for the taxiways and initial grading begins for the new runway. Expansion project continues on schedule
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ππvideo of the initial launch is now up, giving you an idea of just how fast this rocket moved despite its size - those 4 SRBs put out enough thrust for 1.7 TWR! The initial acceleration was important in allowing the main engine to carry on after SRB sep youtube.com/watch?v=Xrac3Zβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
moar struts! The mobile launch platform's main deck needed a bit more stability along the drive axis. Ceramic booster plates have been replaced, everything else checks out and it will be parked outside the VAB once again to await its next use later this year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no reports so far of any night time fireballs. The cameras are not in place simply for photographic evidence - they are taking video because we need to see the fireball's track in order to be able to confirm that it is indeed the Viklun stage and not just a chance meteor
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
preliminary VAB inspection of the Boosterton II fired earlier this month shows it to be in good shape and we will now send back to Periapsis Co. for even more examination and then, if all checks out, recasting. We hope to test fire it again in April
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the final photo we took has also been enhanced, with blue taken down & red/green tones bumped up so you can better make out Sea Ring Crater as Kerbin I flew over it, looking along its direction of travel towards the Kongo River Basin over the horizon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Here are what was able to be recovered from the photo data Kerbin I sent us. Photos are in order from apokee down (2.9Mm to 2Mm to 1Mm to 500km) All photos are untouched except last one @ 500km to bring out the fact that you can see Mun setting over the horizon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all surface locations as well as above caverns have installed full-sky cameras that will be watching each night cycle for any sign of the Viklun stage re-entering over the next 3 days. We expect it to come down around mid-day (local time) on the 27th but could be off by 1 or 2 days
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb & Bob have begun launch drills now that the pad is clear again, using an Ascension Mk1 mock-up with the backup capsule. They go through everything from suit-up to ingress to mounting to emergency egress, etc. This week will conclude pre-launch drills
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kongo base contractors returning to Kravass report our team is still out recovering Kerbin I but that everyone saw its fireball streak across the sky and fall long to the northeast, but still over land. We likely over-estimated our drag coefficient when planning the re-entry
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VAB has already moved on, getting ready for our next launches in March. Jeb's Ascension Mk1 is going to start getting its fins on this week while the Progeny Mk7-B upper stage nears completion to await its booster. Capsule RCS installed & awaits integration w/ heat shield and LES
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
slight difference in how the mission is timed vs. distance traveled is measured. Mission time is from the second probe is deployed to when we lose contact on re-entry. Distance is from the second it switched on & began sending telemetry, to when it hit the top of the atmosphere
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here's a look at the full 4d4h7m18s trajectory of Kerbin I, broken up into the five main mission phases. It aerobraked 13 times through Kerbin's upper atmosphere and then (stably) orbited 20 times before falling back, traveling a record total distance of 396,096.3495km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
YTC-578(B) has just entered our SOI for a close skim of only 0.06 Munar Distance - how cool would it have been if Kerbin I had been in position to capture a photo as it whizzed by? Nah, we wouldn't have risked an approach close enough for a decent photo
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
just under a minute ago FD Lanalye made the final call "Kerbin I telemetry signal has been lost" & sad but satisfied claps filled the room. We hit our re-entry window almost right-on, coming in w/ a Pe of 29.044km (29.151km planned) w/ 6.88% of power & 6.70% cold gas remaining
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
5 photos have been downloaded and they are all in pretty bad shape but technicians will see what can be done. Final commands were sent to disable steering - probe is now ballistic & shortly will begin re-entry at which point plasma blackout will cause one final LOS
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
signal lock!! We have spacecraft telemetry! Kerbin I is holding out like a champ, we have data stored from the camera - what shape it is in we do not know but have enough power to pull it down & find out. In fact, we have cold gas reserves as well & will ask it for one more...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
just ~5min now to potential AOS. If Kerbin I fails to make contact as expected, next best-case scenario is that it booted up into safe mode, did not perform maneuver. In that case it will come into comm range 2min later. Arekibo 27m dish is pointed @ the western horizon...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
assuming all went well, Kerbin I should have just finished executing its final maneuver, 26m/s Ξv at full thrust (1kN) over 13 seconds. It will then snap a photo from apokee and take 3 more, one each at 2Mm, 1Mm and 500km on the way back down to one last AOS prior to re-entry
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we can't rule out radiation damage finally taking its toll, but everyone would rather hold out hope that possible damage only glitched it, making it skip the confirmation and go straight into hibernation. If it is late for its final check-in @ 00:35 UTC, we will know
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
now completing its final orbit (recall it started at apokee), deorbit burninate command was sent to Kerbin I on this recent comm pass. Disturbingly, no confirmation came and telemetry stopped - which means it either failed completely or went into hibernation w/o notification
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MLP was finally moved back to the VAB today after extensive inspections were carried out to make sure it suffered the launch alright as designed. Lead Engineer Simon has reported it held up well with only minor issues that need to be looked at before its next use
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerbin I health check came back with a few new minor issues but critical systems remain green. Updated timings for the next pass were not far enough off for controllers to bother the probe with an update & it shut itself back off to coast around the planet just one more time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Dhumla cargo aircraft has landed, carrying this month's second & final Boosterton SRB for test firing. After it is unloaded the Kerbin I recovery crew will load up with their equipment and fly out to the Kongo to prepare to hunt down the impending impact site
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today our founder and Operations Director @DKerman_KSA accepted official recognition by the Kerbin World First organization for the achievement of placing a payload into stable orbit around Kerbin. CFO Mortimer practically ran off with the award check of 64,000 funds
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerbin I is back in hibernation. For the next orbit it will just wake up for a health check unless mission planners feel they need more telemetry data. 2 orbits from now we will send it the commands to deorbit on the following apokee. Sleep tight, don't let the rad bugs bite!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
maneuver was a success, boosting the probe back up to an apokee just higher than keosynchronous orbit. It will remain active until LOS so we can get as much telemetry data as possible for its new trajectory so the mission team can confirm EOM plan is still on track
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerbin I is oriented prograde & standing by for its upcoming 3.5s maneuver in 1min for 5m/s of Ξv @ 70% thrust (0.7kN). A bit of worry initially as it took 3 tries to accept the maneuver instructions. Processor degradation from repeated high radiation exposure a likely cause
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
about 10min to AOS for Kerbin I's 31st comm pass, which will be a nice long one supported by 4 ground stations and lasting for just under 11 minutes, which gives the spacecraft operations team plenty of time to setup for the apokee boost maneuver this pass & monitor the results
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
estimates leave us with 20-25m/s of Ξv after deorbit maneuver, which we will use along with remaining power to allow the spacecraft to stop rolling & orient itself as needed to take pics at certain points on the way back down from apokee - altho remaining cam may be too damaged
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
end of mission operations are a GO! We will be aiming to smash Kerbin I into the Kongo River basin later today, which is the largest land mass along our trajectory. Going for the middle to allow for under/overshoot and still be able to have an impact location on land to analyze
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we just concluded Kerbin I's "time off" period, interrupting this last wake cycle with a command to stay active until LOS, which occurred within 2s of estimate made at the start of yesterday. New update available on Ops Tracker for more info: ops.kerbalspace.agency
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerbin I remains healthy and continues to check in on schedule with no problem being able to connect immediately to KSC. Mission operations team got some rest & more importantly took the time to make well-considered decisions about how to end the mission. More details tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our best guess therefore is that the spent stage will return to Kerbin around 14:00 UTC on the 27th. This could still be off by as much as a day or more but at least any return is guaranteed to occur at night time which will make spotting it more likely
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
since then however we've gathered more aerobrake data from Kerbin I and found a correlation. The average drag coefficient from all aerobrakes where it was tumbling (1.130) nearly equals that of the probe's average surface area (1.134). So we have gone & applied the same to Viklun
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the scientists at Arekibo have been very generous in letting us try multiple attempts to ping the dead stage but cannot accommodate any more requests without interrupting their own research, so we are left with attempting to estimate when it will finally return to Kerbin
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
tracking the Viklun stage continues to be a problem. Despite Pe over the terminator it is still too small and not very reflective, nor has it passed directly enough over Arekibo to radar it - at least, attempts based on timings from early drag estimates have had no returns
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
earlier today during comm pass #20 Kerbin I was put into an extended hibernation sequence. For the next 10 orbits it will just wake up, check for any errors or instructions, and return to sleep. This will hopefully give the mission operations team a well-needed rest period today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
not sure if anyone actually noticed, but the cameras displayed in the craft image do not match the one displayed in the blueprint. Due to budget issues we used surplus cheaper cameras we had already purchased. They are not even really designed for space flight!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
1 of the 8 photos taken Thurs actually had a good look at Kerbin with Mun in the frame too. It has been cleaned up as best as possible but as expected the conditions were not great for the cameras to capture a good quality image. Still, our farthest look at Kerbin yet from 3.8Mm
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
tomorrow we will decide when to deorbit Kerbin I & any actions available resources will allow us to perform before then. Ops Tracker will continue w/ regular info & trajectory updates each comm pass but we'll only report here if anything unexpected happens ops.kerbalspace.agency
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
probe is back asleep for the long coast around the planet to our next comm window (#16) predicted to begin @ 23:18 UTC. All systems remain nominal, thermal issues have not become as serious a concern as originally feared, thankfully. Power levels have just reached 50%
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
waiting for AOS this minute, controllers are ready for our first on-orbit check-in, which will slice almost directly between DSN Central (blue) & Arekibo (cyan). If Kerbin I were still low, likely would have not seen either. No atmo pass, so it will hibernate between comm windows
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the 4 SRBs that helped power the Mk2 into space were released w/ just enough burn left to send them flying from the rocket, since the main engine was below them. Due to an early flight throttle issue, rocket wasn't traveling as fast as planned but thankfully this was not an issue
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerbin I is back asleep and drifting away into space. Now that the orbit is stable mission planners will take another look at the resources remaining and decide how best to proceed with the remainder of the mission goals over the next day or two. No parties yet! Moar work!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we felt we earned ourselves a photo, so controllers quick pointed one of the cameras towards the horizon and by the time it was in position we managed to just capture the sun setting. We choose to see it as the end of a long journey w/ a new dawn in space exploration now coming!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
β¨π KERZZAH!! πβ¨ radio doppler increasing, onboard instruments detected no atmosphere & signal delay measurements confirm altitude! FD Lanalye announced:
π« WE ARE IN ORBIT!! π«
Mission Control has erupted in cheers & applause! Hugs & handshakes! High fours all around! πΎπ₯
π« WE ARE IN ORBIT!! π«
Mission Control has erupted in cheers & applause! Hugs & handshakes! High fours all around! πΎπ₯
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
excitement in the air! We just downlinked confirmation that the burn was successful, onboard measurements say we are in a 2,801km x 101km orbit but Kerbin I is just guessing based on measured performance & last-uploaded position data from prev pass. Now we need to confirm...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
just under 10 minutes until we should hear from Kerbin I, traveling down to what we hope is a 100km perikee. Mission Control has slowly been filling up with spectators & FD Lanalye had to start turning kerbs away so we quick setup a simulcast in the Astronaut Complex
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
by now, if all went well, we should finally have an orbital spacecraft! The maneuver would have expended 13.25m/s of Ξv over 6.7s pushing out cold gas at full thrust (1kN). There are still numerous things that could have gone wrong, so no celebrations yet... still waiting...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
since we were unable to check telemetry after aerobrake pass we have no idea how on course the probe is, but its apokee height is irrelevant. The only thing that could make the maneuver go horribly wrong is if it was done pointing retrograde, which it is not programmed to do
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
next aerobrake, based on drag avg of last three, is estimated to pull down apokee 75km below our target altitude, but that can be boosted back up with minimal Ξv. Burninate commands are being worked out now for the next comm pass, which will only give us contact prior to perikee
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here's a look at the last aerobrake pass based off telemetry data (sped up 2x), you can see the vessel get stood up then knocked over, oscillating back and forth. When it exits the atmosphere at the end you see it finally do a full rotation w/o air pressure to stop it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are GO for orbital insertion after next aerobrake! Apokee is at 2.9Mm when originally projected to be around 3.1Mm - data shows Kerbin I is "standing up" more than expected as it tumbles, presenting the broad-side of its surface to the airflow for greater drag
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good check-in with Kerbin I just now, like the last pass we disabled comms to save power but were able to get post-aerobrake data this time along with the data from last pass to analyze. Time to see how things are going vs. planned on our trek down to keosynchronous altitude
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no problems reported by the AFCS, Kerbin I was watched closely near to LOS to make sure any ill effects were uncovered. We will continue to monitor the next three passes and then determine whether we are ready to place the probe into a more stable trajectory out of the atmosphere
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
whoops & claps in Mission Control! Most off-duty controllers still sticking around along with FD Lanalye & DKerman_KSA. Maneuver went off wonderfully, probe is now passing through lower perikee & everyone keeping a close eye on the thermals. High up still yes, but also Mach 11
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
maneuver complete! At least, it should be if all went well. We'll know in ~2hrs. Trajectory analysis from the last aerobrake has shown the resulting perikee should be 63.879km as opposed to the 63.907km that was planned based on prev aerobrake data, well within acceptable margins
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we just had a good comm pass with Kerbin I, full health check after Pe pass showed it was in great shape & trajectory was not far off prediction so the final GO was given to upload commands for our second attempt at burnination. Good luck, space faring robot - hello, shift change
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this week's Ops Summary is required reading if you want to keep in the know about Kerbin I! Mission overview so far, new maneuver plans, what went wrong with the first attempt & how the mission will (hopefully!) progress over the weekend: kerbalspace.agency/?p=10478
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
altho we were hoping to upload a new maneuver next pass, Kerbin I will almost slice between DSN Central & Arekibo @ Pe, our one big dead spot at low altitude. Atmo pass was enough to send probe back into a slow tumble, so we need to stabilize before Pe. Pass #10 looks promising
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we were able to restore normal operations prior to atmospheric passage, collected that data and monitored Kerbin I until near LOS to ensure no further issues before commanding it to hibernate until the next comm window. In the meantime, mission re-planning & error diagnosing...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this is *not* what we were hoping to see when Kerbin I contacted us just now for its 8th perikee pass. Controllers are assessing the health of the probe & analyzing the diagnostics packet. Multiple startup failure points to an issue with the maneuver script set to run at boot
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
you're looking at the entire extended mission plan all the way up to end of mission, however the end timing is not yet decided - likely either Sunday or Monday. We'll have full details on the new mission plan later today in the Ops Summary
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
time to show our work. Fabulous job by the mission planners predicting the future trajectory based on prev aerobrake data (#5). Key numbers to look at are the yellow Pe warnings in the lower-right. 64.212 was the planned perikee, latest trajectory update (#7) shows 64.193!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
comm pass #7 concluded! Here is the full command listing of what we just described. Controllers came up with "burninate" from having to hibernate before doing a burn (although "burn" isn't quite accurate for the cold gas-fed engine but... manuverate? Hibernuve? Naaaah)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after losing comms thru Arekibo & passing over Kongo, Kravass gave us back control to switch off SAS, enable RCS and spin the probe back up (no more tumble now, tho spin slightly off-balanced, causing a small wobble). Now prepping to upload the maneuver instructions & hibernate
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
about to hit perikee, command will be sent to hold orientation, not follow prograde anymore. This means that when Kerbin I reaches apokee for retro-burn it will then be pointing retrograde w/o need for large re-orientation & more fuel/batt spent. Entering loss of command soon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
AOS on schedule, then it took less than a minute to get the probe under control and pointed prograde via RCS. That system is now disabled to save fuel and the SAS reaction wheels will now be enabled to hold it prograde for atmospheric passage, at the cost of some extra EC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
getting ready for Kerbin I's 7th comm pass to begin in ~5min. Controllers have commands prepared for as soon as signal is acquired, will manually fly it prograde prior to atmosphere, which means we need time for the RCS to null out the slow tumble & roll probe is currently in
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
since we knew there would be no recovery of engineering camera footage, no video was taken just rapid still shots (4fps) that could be beamed down during ascent. Here is the flipover performed by the Viklun stage that had @DKerman_KSA going "No..no..nooo...nononoNONONONOOOOOOOO!"
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we will not be entering orbit yet. Instead we will actually lower perikee down to 64.2km, which will speed up the aerobraking process without risk of damaging the probe, although we'll still be keeping close tabs on it after each pass. Full details later today in the Ops Summary
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we only got a quick blip from Kerbin I during its 6th perikee pass - as expected! We've updated the Ops Tracker with an estimated trajectory. When it next contacts us @ 19:02 UTC we will have some new instructions for it to setup for a maneuver the following apokee
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Presider's flotilla has departed, he wishes us good luck on the remainder of the mission and says he will be following along closely via our Ops Tracker. Don't forget that you too can see where Kerbin I is at anytime along w/its status - ops.kerbalspace.agency
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the probe will wake up right when it comes in range of Arekibo. If it can't immediately make contact it will know our calculations were wrong & stay on so we can check its trajectory. Otherwise it will power back off until atmosphere, collect data & hibernate until pass #7
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
another successful Kerbin I aerobrake & comms pass. Our trajectory predictions made for this pass (#5) using data after pass #3 were accurate to within 1s & shows we have good modeling of the atmospheric passage. This time additional instructions were uploaded on hibernation
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerbin I ran an automated sequence this pass, activating at ~80km, phoning home after perikee pass, staying on to continue transmitting post-areobrake telemetry & wait for any commands, then going back into hibernation. We'll continue with this on the next two passes as well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
shift change underway at Mission Control. Had things gone as planned we would have just hibernated the probe by now & left it up there until the next day. Now however with short comm windows, aerobrakes & an unplanned trajectory we need to continue to keep very close tabs on it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
aaaand we're out once again. Probe is set for its next wakeup @ 08:05 UTC. As usual Ops Tracker trajectory/status update coming soon but if anyone was watching during these passes you will see comm & resource updates happening in real time. Photos will need lots of processing...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no faults this time during atmospheric passage, we're now preparing to download the photos. Transmission cost of ~5EC each means about an hour of hibernation we've lost. Hopefully they are worth it. Thermal condition of the probe remains a concern but has not worsened
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
coming up on AOS in a few mins. With a better handle on its trajectory we were able to tell it during last pass when to wake up within comm range of KSC. We'll confirm it's in good health then shut off the antenna until after Pe pass. Gotta save as much EC as we can when we can
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerbin I is now near apokee for pics. Whether we actually see Kerbin is completely by chance. Probe is tumbling slowly in addition to spinning in addition to wobbling slightly in addition to spinning faster than designed so photo exposure may be too long. So yea. Fingers crossed!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
if the "BBQ roll" fails to keep the spacecraft within safe operating temperatures then we will be forced to expend additional fuel/energy in pointing the engine at the sun & holding this orientation so the spacecraft shadows itself and the RTG can radiate more effectively
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
back in hibernation before it coasts out of range. Thermal profile is an issue because probe was designed for an orbit that would have spent almost equal time in dark and light, now it spends majority of time in heat of the sun. Thankfully RTG is still a functioning radiator
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
well we did end up losing data through the atmosphere, which will slightly hinder our aerobrake calculations for future passes, but probe ops have been restored. We will activate the RCS briefly to manually pump up the spin rate slightly, temp sensor readouts are a bit worrisome
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
signal regained via Kravass after dropping out as expected @ 00:30 UTC but no telemetry coming down, just a safe mode alert. Controllers working thru the downloaded diagnostic package to ID issue & reboot the probe core - hopefully data gathered through atmo pass not corrupted
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
another on time acquisition of signal, probe has only been awake for just over a minute prior. There was a bit of outcry when kerbs learned we hadn't taken any photos yet so we'll be sending up a command on this pass to do the job after Kerbin I coasts back up to apokee
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
well, that didn't take long. Starting from the moment it was deployed Kerbin I has just this minute already traveled over 13,945.799km and has begun to set a new mission distance record. The record name holder has been updated and the distance will be updated after mission end
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
to find out what ground stations to check in what order, we model the flyby in bit.ly/KSP_TOT. The sphere shading is proper for the body's position relative to the sun and you can see Kerbin I only spends a short amount of time over the night side of Kerbin
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here's a look at the upcoming comm window. Due to the antenna's short range it's important to consider distance as well as visibility. Over the Kongo we will not be able to send commands or receive telemetry since it is not yet connected to KSC via ground fiber, hence C = Control
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
without power to send telemetry and being too small to track easily the Ascension Mk2 mission distance record accounting was halted when it ran out of power after Kerbin I deployment. It will eventually be surpassed by Kerbin I but currently retains the record of 13,945.799km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
time for more trajectory analysis and mission management meetings. The astronauts came by during a break in their training expecting to see some photos from space, but we haven't taken any yet. Kerbin I will wake itself back up when it reaches ~500km ASL @ 00:24 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Arekibo's 27m tracking dish has just picked up Kerbin I clearing the western horizon. It will be in range only for the next 3min so just a quick download of aerobrake telemetry so we can update its trajectory information and it's back into hibernation for another 3h+
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Viklun stage is now completely defunct and will gradually return to Kerbin. Ironically we have unintentionally achieved the goal we had originally intended to achieve on two previous occasions with the Ascension Mk1 of placing a spacecraft into a decaying orbit. Go figure
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
success! With <2min residual charge in Viklun to relay signal we were contacted by the probe, sent the necessary commands & switched off the antenna since its 500km range wouldn't reach us now once Viklun lost power for good. It will reactivate after perikee pass, AOS in ~15min
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are GO for satellite deployment! Command will be sent this minute to release Kerbin I from the payload truss, which will give it enough of a push that the two craft will separate without any need for additional thrust. Probe will check in 10s later to let us know all is well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
acquisition of signal almost right on schedule! Collective sigh of relief passes through controllers. Health checks are underway to ensure no serious damage has been done and the Viklun core can perform the final task of deploying the Kerbin I satellite on this comm pass
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mission Control is fully staffed again as we await AOS (bit.ly/KSATerminology) in a few minutes. The Viklun core cannot hibernate & was operational during both passes through the outer radiation belt. We can only hope this has not caused any serious damage
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
and now a new record set by the Ascension Mk2: longest mission distance! Trajectory analysis shows it has just surpassed the 9,257.860km record, also from last year's Mk6-II. the Mk2 now has its name on the record, with a + to signify the distance is still increasing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Ascension Mk2 has set records however! It is now the heaviest rocket ever launched (minus payload) at 17.5t and it is also the tallest rocket ever launched, standing 16m from engine bell to PLF tip. For more records, check out this page on our site kerbalspace.agency/?page_id=72
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
by now the Viklun stage with its attached payload will have passed through 3,887km apokee, which comes close to but does not break the record set back in July last year by the Progeny Mk6 Block II when it climbed to 4,349.35km ops.kerbalspace.agency
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
post-launch ops wrapping up altho extended cleanup will be needed a few dozen meters north of the runway almost even w/HAB where one SRB impacted. The rest fell harmlessly downrange as planned. The boosters made for a great visual launch even when viewed from the Support Village
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have a better idea of the inner-belt's extent and thankfully the trajectory travels over top of it on the way to apokee & below it on the way to perikee. Even better the apokee is pointing towards the sun, meaning it travels thru the compressed, thinner part of the outer belt
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
while we have limited knowledge as to the extent of the outer radiation belt, by now the Viklun stage is likely thru 1st of 2 passes with increased radiation. The core itself is not radiation-hardened to save mass but the dual-CPU cross-check at least gives it better tolerance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we completed re-configuring the rocket and prior to LOS @ 17:10:51 UTC we used the last 0.4kg of cold gas in the Viklun tanks to spin up the spacecraft for thermal control. We expect to regain signal @ ~20:25 UTC. Until then, post-launch ops & lots of mission operations meetings!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after deliberation, to salvage the mission we have begun Kerbin I activation. This will allow its batteries to power the Viklun stage. Viklun is designed not to do this until it runs out of its own juice. Kerbin I's probe core & 500km antenna will remain off to preserve power
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
trajectory analysis has shown we'll lose signal in just over 11 minutes & not regain it for a little over 3hrs. This will completely drain the batteries supplying power to the Vilkun stage and its 1.5Mm antenna, which means we will not regain contact & lose the payload
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
RT @DKerman_KSA: I'm about to almost pass out here. Holy kraken. Mad props to the controllers, and I will be the first one to admit that even though we knew the Viklun stage might lose attitude control, the contingencies we had in place were barely adequate. Lessons learned harshly...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a mixture of screams & cheers is still ringing here as we come up just. two. kilometers. short! But while this isn't a stable orbit, it is one that will give us plenty of time to sort through our options, and problems. First problem - 1.5Mm comms range with a 3.9Mm apokee...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
OIB underway, almost perikee positive! Everyone in Mission Control, Presider included, are staring up at the monitors pumping their arms & screaming "GO! GO! GO! GO!" We can do nothing else. There is only about 30s of powered flight remaining.
Can we make it?
CAN WE MAKE IT???
Can we make it?
CAN WE MAKE IT???
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've managed to get the rocket pointing prograde but are already thru apokee. With no time for trajectory analysis controllers are just rushing to carefully modify the orbital burn script to begin immediately on upload & we will just have to hope there is enough fuel remaining!!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
mad scramble still underway! We've coasted up to space with only 1min until apokee, too soon to take the steps we need to properly plan the orbital insertion burn. Rocket is suffering gimbal lock & not re-orienting prograde. Controllers are desperately sending steering commands
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
RT @DKerman_KSA: AAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!
I'm allowed to scream. I'm just sitting here at my operations overview console watching the *actual* controllers (outwardly) calmly handling the situation. Rocket is still burning for 100km apokee, no matter what
I'm allowed to scream. I'm just sitting here at my operations overview console watching the *actual* controllers (outwardly) calmly handling the situation. Rocket is still burning for 100km apokee, no matter what
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π¨ATTITUDE ALERT!! Gasps & moans filled Mission Control as we watched the Viklun stage slowly tumble almost completely around shortly after SES-1. Thankfully RCS was able to stabilize pointing nearly straight up & 100km target apokee was achieved for SECO-1 with minimal fuel loss
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
minor roll-shake has developed - so much for hoping the longer Mk2 would be immune. Guidance remains on course however along with pitch. Coming up now on MECO, PLF drop, staging, SES-1 all happening within <1min. Heat build up seen here will quickly dissipate after PLF sep & MECO
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
nominal attitude on launch but main engine did not throttle properly during SRB boost resulting in a low TWR during initial ascent. Clean SRB sep & good throttle up however. Guidance fins can now actuate further if needed with the SRB decouplers out of the way. Mk2 is supersonic!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
main engine ignition was good & with a massive WHOMP the 4 SRBs lit at L-0 to shove the rocket off the MLP almost all by themselves w/over 300kN of thrust. Main engine will throttle up as SRB thrust tapers off, SRBs will detach @ L+32s & main engine will throttle to full
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-1m] nothing left but seconds on the clock! Tune in for live ascent telemetry through OIB: ops.kerbalspace.agency at T-30s we should get the "Go Ascension!", "Go Kerbin I!" calls & live data will load shortly after. Final event sequence:
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-2m] terminal count! Service towers are retracting to leave Ascension on battery power, now switching over to RF comms and monitoring EC load. Viklun flight computers are synchronizing. AFCS now has full control of the launch sequence tho manual hold possible up to L-0
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
steering constraints for this flight are not very tight since we are not targeting a specific orbit and have enough fuel to salvage a poor ascent. But if you do happen to see any flashing yellow or red telemetry values these are the limit thresholds that are being exceeded
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] Final polls - Range: GO; Flight: GO; Tracking: GO; Payload: GO! WX: GO! Ops Director @DKerman_KSA: Launch permission granted! πGO ASCENSIONπ FTS power to internal, SRB boltbangs armed, service towers unlocked for retraction, AFCS standing by for terminal count procedures
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Presider is back in Mission Control still hoping to perform the final launch count. Astronauts only blocked out the initial launch attempt from their busy schedule so they will have to try and catch the next one. All eyes are on the kerbs at the weather desk now...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] RSO has closed the range, rocket is ARMED, FTS ACTIVE. Although more planes than normal are in the area (word got around of how easy the rocket will be to see even from afar thx to SRBs) all are sticking to registered flight plans & remain outside the 20km exclusion zone
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] countdown has resumed with a GO from the weather desk confirming surface conditions remain within limits. Hopefully things higher up are better now but the downwards trend was just an observation not a prediction and could have reversed or stalled. If so, day is scrubbed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
mission planners have recomputed the ascent with the new launch time & estimated air temps to confirm there is no need for any changes to the current mission plan. If we were actually targeting a specific orbit things would have been a bit more complicated
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
standby weather balloon has been released - everyone think calming thoughts! Buses have also started running again in case anyone with a viewing ticket was unfortunate enough to miss the deadline in getting to KSC from the Support Village. KSC mess hall remains closed to visitors
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket is SAFED, FTS is deactivated and countdown has rolled back to L-30m with new L-0 time uploaded to the rocket. Controllers will maintain vigilance while the Presider sets up a temp office in our Admin building and the astronauts, bummed, head out for the day's training
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
upper-level conditions are more important than usual for this launch because our interstage is the largest yet and its size makes it more vulnerable to wind shear that could literally knock the rocket in two. We are looking to stay well below estimated tolerances
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
HOLD - we are NO GO from the weather desk, upper-level winds have not died down enough to meet our tight constraints but they are trending downwards since last measurement. Decision is to wait it out & try again, aiming for the end of the daylight launch window @ 16:45 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the astronauts, recently woken up since they were all training all day yesterday, have crowded into Mission Control to say hello to the Presider and watch as the final minutes tick down. Controllers are glued to their monitors, checking readouts in prep for final general polls
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] RSO has confirmed pad/waters/airspace are clear, range is now closed & rocket is ARMED. Flight Termination System is ACTIVE. Visitors at KSC must remain in their designated areas. Security is doing a final sweep outside to ensure everyone has hearing protection
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Presider has arrived. His first question was where the big red LAUNCH button was so he could be the one to push it. FD Lanalye had to explain that's not quite how it works, and he was visibly disappointed but she did say he could call out the final 10s countdown so he's happy now
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] Kat says we are GO for final countdown procedures! Surface weather has continued to improve, thankfully in this case forecasts are still not that great. Presider is on his way to Mission Control & all consoles are being reset for launch, switching over to the live rocket
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h] all buses have ceased to prepare for the Presider to be transported over to KSC while FD Lanalye works her teams through a mission rehearsal to ensure all consoles are properly setup and all controllers know their roles. Ground crew is conducting final pad evacuation
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h35m] high-altitude weather balloon has started its ascent to 25km so that by L-5min polls the kerbs at the weather desk (now led by KWS meteorologist Katgan) have a better idea if conditions in the upper atmosphere have improved or not since the last check earlier today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h30m] no issues reported, preflight proceeding smoothly into checks of the K2-X, Viklun and SRB-XL engines that will power the flight to space. For safety all crews are evacuating the pad area - rocket+MLP is too big to even allow a quick-response team in the bunker anymore
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-5)
2/20
#2π 08:47:45 !!π!!
#3π12:38:14 π 14:48:36
#4π18:39:05 π 20:49:27
2/21
#1π00:39:56 π 02:50:18
#2π06:40:47
@ KSC (UTC-5)
2/20
#2π 08:47:45 !!π!!
#3π12:38:14 π 14:48:36
#4π18:39:05 π 20:49:27
2/21
#1π00:39:56 π 02:50:18
#2π06:40:47
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
buses have begun running from the Support Village to deliver ticketed visitors to the viewing areas. Loading is outside the parking garage & as advised during ticket purchase an extra security check will be in place before entering the KSC campus. Buses stop at L-1hr!!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h15m] briefing broke up with hand shakes and quick hugs, lots of "have a safe launch!" as the ground crew departed for the pad & controllers went to their stations. Consoles will serve double duty with launch/mission controllers taking turns as needed during the orbital phase
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here is the ascent profile & mission overview. Times are not given for events beyond SECO-1 because that all depends upon how the ascent goes. If orbital insertion is as planned then the mission will progress as shown. If not - PANIC!
No not really, there will just be a new plan
No not really, there will just be a new plan
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h50m] excitement is aiding everyone in getting up early to be present for final mission briefing by Flight Director Lanalye, although it almost had to be pushed back due to overcrowding at the koffee machines. Mess hall stepped up tho & all controllers are fueling up
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h30m] weather balloon released earlier shows upper-level conditions are more disturbed than we'd like but not enough to call off launch attempt. Surface forecast has also improved to 80% so we will proceed with prelaunch - expect updates at these major milestones
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all launch readiness reports have been reviewed & approved by Ops Dir @DKerman_KSA. We are πGO FOR LAUNCH!π Weather forecast for tomorrow is 65% favorable, which is on the low end but still possible. Launch prep Go/No Go will be made @ 10:03 UTC tomorrow. Who plans to watch?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the probe's RCS thrusters are laid out so that while the rocket is powered by the Viklun engine, which has no gimbal, the pitch control can use up to 5 thrusters to keep the rocket on course. In theory. This is an untested mission aspect & why we have a large error margin in fuel
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerbin I has completed checkouts, is now powered down; main fuel valves closed & all electrical/comm systems switched off. Crossfeed valves will remain open to allow use of its RCS ports during ascent after PLF separation. It will be re-activated prior to orbital deployment
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
congratulations to C7 Aerospace Division - their hard work on independently-continued Dhumla development have allowed the aircraft to reach full ASA flight certification & officially enter into service with the cargo industry. We look forwards to seeing them passing through KSC!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket has been topped off, both ascent stages, with 9t of liquid propellants. These can still be carried by a single one of our large tanker trucks. After wet dress rehearsal rocket will stay fueled to allow for a condensed countdown early tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
sea cable has begun to be laid to the west while ground cable has started to dig in to the east, looking to link up fiber between the Kongo & Kravass. Arekibo is almost equidistant but with the exiled kerbs on that landmass, decision was the least amount of land cable the better
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Flight Director Lanalye & Lead Engineer Simon are both saying "so far so good" in regards to pad checkouts of the rocket systems and ground systems. Their final reports will be submitted tomorrow after WDR for launch readiness review. hype video! π @KerbalSpaceP #KSPloring
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb & Bob have been spending more & more time in the capsule lately as their mission nears, working through the standard script of procedures & emergency events based on previous flights. By next month FD Lanalye will be able to get creative again in her attempts to "kill" them
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
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
π¨AAAHHWWHOOOOOOOπ¨
warning horn has sounded, crews evacuated from the launch pad & the horizontal test stand will shortly trigger ignition of the dual-segment Boosterton II held within its grasp. This will be the 1st ever test firing - no underground facilities can handle this
warning horn has sounded, crews evacuated from the launch pad & the horizontal test stand will shortly trigger ignition of the dual-segment Boosterton II held within its grasp. This will be the 1st ever test firing - no underground facilities can handle this
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
did anyone happen to notice the horizontal test stand getting set up yesterday while the MLP was rolling out of the VAB? Final preparations are currently underway for SRB static fire later today, targeting ignition @ 16:00 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
farthest to the left is the Kongo River Research Station 500km antenna, the only one w/o ground link to KSC. So we cannot relay commands through there but it can still receive & store telemetry data in case anything happens over that region before Kravass can reacquire signal
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
upcoming mission will be the 1st to make use of all operational bit.ly/GrndStns & the past 2wks have been spent ensuring all dishes are calibrated & relays are in working order. Only DSN North/South are not shown as they don't go into service until later this year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
service tower hookups are completed, for the first time the entirety of the GSE is in use. Lower two booms provide fuel, walkway itself is not used but the resource connectors below carry power to the Viklun & Kerbin I CPU cores. Struts will be removed after engine clamp install
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mobile Launch Platform is rolling! Exiting the VAB it will slowly make its way 655m to the launch pad, traveling no faster than 3m/s - which is actually 2x quicker than the Mk1 carry vehicle thanks to its extra power & wider base for better stability at "high speed"
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
working through the weekend, VAB crews have completed an exhaustive checklist to make sure the Ascension Mk2 is fully assembled and ready for roll out tomorrow. With so much riding on this rocket, Lead Engineer Simon says he can't shake that phantom feeling "what did we forget?"
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Presider's flotilla has arrived and moored outside the Support Village. As with his visit last year, we were unable to announce his attendance ahead of time and his presence is why we are unable to have general admission at KSC. We hope he gets to enjoy a launch this time!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're keeping this mission directly under the Ascension program since it will not be operating long on its own. Future missions that have goals beyond being a test object will come with more unique patches
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today the rocket was fully stacked - here is the orbital stage being lowered onto the interstage support shroud. It was then secured to the lifter and the other shroud half was installed. The payload topped it off & the rest of the day is removing worker access scaffolding
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
tickets for the launch have sold out and there will be NO general admission for the non-ticketed areas of KSC. We apologize for the inconvenience but have setup general-admission viewing areas at the Support Village. We promise the views are just as good!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with Jeb & Bob carrying out recovery drills, launch drills and capsule sim runs Val & Bill have time in their relatively light CapCom workload to take on some additional training in the centrifuge. Val says she hates just sitting inside & wants to practice actions under load too
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all the guidance fins have been mounted and the lifter is vertical. One segment of the interstage shroud is being installed to support the Viklun stage at mounting later this week while allowing the engine to be secured to the base. Progeny Mk7-B parts have arrived as well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the government & religious leaders have announced a new peace mission will be sent later this month to attempt to re-open relations with the exiled tribe. In the months since the attack on KSC all their supply lines have been cut and no word has been received from the region
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
turf runway markers and approach threshold markers have been removed. Today the heavy machinery arrived and began to dig out dirt from the hills just west of KSC to truck over and begin building up the foundations for the new runway, taxiways and tarmac to the north
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket assembly is proceeding on schedule, mission planning has been reviewed & approved - launch date for our 3rd orbital attempt has been set! Get ready to witness history on 2/20 with lift off set for 14:33 UTC π! Full details: ops.kerbalspace.agency #KSPloring @KerbalSpaceP
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
repairs for the Civvie will take about a month, in the meantime the Deuce is also grounded until a full review of maintenance records and procedures is carried out by Lead Engineer Simon, who is currently working to appoint a new head mechanic
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
to be clear, the 3/17 prediction error was not a typo. It was the future encounter calculated back in Oct 2019 but since then improvements in how bit.ly/KSP_TOT detects encounters has led to a new prediction. We'll see which is right next month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new orbital data has been posted for bit.ly/_Alaba and updated trajectory calculations have revealed an error in earlier predictions. The next encounter is to occur on 3/10, not 3/17 as noted on the prediction plot image. End of March will see a new long-term prediction
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the system to scale is accurate when using the planet's average distance from the sun. The line with the sun icon counts as line one, Moho's average distance is 5.263Gm so it goes on line two, etc. We just barely got this to fit in a tweet w/ 0 chars left - space is big!!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerbol System: 1 line=4.321Gm
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Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
amazing news to hear that some students involved in the Kerbal Sounding Project (bit.ly/Mk6-KSP) co-authored papers with their mentors based on the results of their flown experiments that have been published in scientific journals!
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 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
we've already dismissed our lead mechanic, who was supposed to oversee cable replacement of the Civvie after the Deuce incident but he lost track of the work order and ultimately forgot to carry it out. Poor record keeping by his crew meant no one realized it hadn't been done
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
investigation into Val's crash has confirmed the suspected culprit - the throttle cable was damaged due to moisture & icing from previous flights and finally snapped when she decreased thrust from takeoff to climb. Unlike in the Deuce it wasn't frozen at high-altitude & closed
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
at least some good news to come out of today: the newest K2-X engine was hooked up to the test stand & underwent successful static fire. It will be moved back to the VAB tomorrow to begin integration w/ flight hardware for March's mission. Horizontal stand awaits Boosterton II
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
an extremely slow start to asteroid encounters in 2020 - not that we are complaining! Does not seem to be the norm though, already we know of 6 passing by this month, with more likely to be discovered. Also of note is that despite only 4 encounters we still had one impact
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Val has been released from the medical center with some bandages for her face and no serious injuries. Civvie has been hauled back to the HAB where engineers are starting to dig into the engine to see what might have gone wrong during the early ascent phase of the flight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
additionally while the atmospheric scoop seems to be damaged beyond repair, it kept the nose up and allowed the tail to slide rather than the front-heavy engine tilting the aircraft forward and digging the propeller into the ground. A worthy sacrifice!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Engineer Simon got a look at the crash & is happy to see the main gear performed as designed, flattening out to the side & not getting thrust through the side of the cockpit to impale anyone. That they didn't break off completely means Val almost managed to save the landing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
report from the wreck is the plane is actually in decent shape thanks to the gear soaking up impact. Val suffered some cuts to the side of her head banging into the fuselage and is being carted off to the medical center in the Support Village for a full checkup
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
"Mayday! Mayday!" came the call less than a minute after takeoff. Val lost engine power but was able to come about to land on the shore a few dozen meters from the water. The quick turnaround brought her down fast - she flattened the landing gear. Emergency vehicles dispatched
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Cdr Val has performed preflight & received taxi clearance from flight controllers to head out to runway 09 for departure. As in this old photo the underbelly holds the Atmospheric Fluid Spectro-Variometer which she will use to collect air samples for data on pollen levels
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after a week of multiple high-G runs in the centrifuge using the latest suit, seat and strap adjustments (based on data from Murstap's tests) both Bob and Jeb report to be feeling much less fatigued and have found the stresses to be more tolerable under slightly higher and longer exposure
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
one of our proudest achievements has been the continuous outreach program established early on, leading to growth in aerospace, engineering & scientific industries which have in turn supported us in working towards the goal of a space-faring civilization twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch pad remains in good repair, reports the team assigned by Lead Engineer Simon, who has just signed off on the review. This is great news and means no further delays stand in the way of the next launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ahead of the new commercial airport expansion, both turf runways have been decommissioned so work can begin to create the raised ground upon which will reside a new hangar tarmac, ATC tower, taxiways and a new runway. They have served us well!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here is a new render of the Mk2 with the payload fairings enclosing Kerbin I at the top (instead of the Mk1 capsule) along with the technical specifications of the rocket that we are using to plot its ascent to orbit in Launch Vehicle Designer from bit.ly/KSP_TOT
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
final design work for the Mk1-B capsule remains ongoing, with one of the recent decisions being not to attempt to integrate the heat shield into the capsule bottom, which would make re-use more complicated and also not allow for varying levels of ablator to be used as easily
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the lightning towers of the launch pad seem to prop up a gibbous Mun over the service structures. Empty once again, hopefully the next rocket to be received by the pad will be the Ascension Mk2 atop the Mobile Launch Platform!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Hyperspace? Black hole? Neither, just what happens when you take a fish eye view of the night sky and apply a super long focal length. It's still pretty cool looking we think. Credit to Val, who has been extending her astrophotography hobby into experimental rendering
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ever since we demonstrated it was possible to open the Mk1 capsule hatch in space then close & secure it again for safe re-entry on an unkerbed flight rumors have persisted about a spacewalk from Jeb or Bob. Official response: As of right now we have NO such plans
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
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've received the 1st of the three K2-X engines ordered back in August 2019 which will be test fired next week and if all is well be set aside for use with Cpt Jeb's mission in early March. The following two engines will arrive in February and March
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Head of R&D Wernher von Kerman has his team (and his new interns) working hard on new ideas for science instruments that can be carried on probes large enough to be launched by a 1.25m rocket like Ascension currently fields
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Ascension Mk2 is center stage in the VAB for final assembly of the lift stage, which will start strapping on boosters and final checkouts of the Kerbin I probe before fairing encapsulation. The Viklun stage has been tested, ready & waiting for months now!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
since capsule re-use is something we are monitoring closely, the unused backup capsule will become primary for the next two flights. This will keep re-use of the unkerbed capsule well ahead of any ones we use for kerbed missions so any hint or actual failure is spotted in advance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are pleased to hear Lead Engineer Simon report that the capsule from the pad abort of Jeb's mission has been re-certified for flight. It required only minimal repairs from the landing on hard ground but was nonetheless put through extensive testing these last few months
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
there was also discussion of renting out our Deuce to a third KWS aircrew for the Kerblantic flights but experienced pilots capable of flying in and around severe weather are still hard to come by, so it remains up to Val & Jeb when they are available
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Val is back from Kravass, where she spent the last three days training a second KWS air crew for weather flight operations in the area. We will now only investigate storms that build up out over the Kerblantic, a less common occurrence than the ones inland
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
before a crowd of visitors, Jeb & Bob held a paper airplane contest off the VAB roof today. Bob won, his plane glided for almost 170m. The contest was sponsored by Kerlington Model Rockets & Paper Inc. The kerbs that guessed the winner went home with rocket kits!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
light glinting off the seas allows for attempts at spectroscopic analysis, with astronomers saying the liquid appears to be some form of hydrogen peroxide although not knowing the exact makeup they instead like to refer to it simply as "explodium"
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
every now & then astronomers get a lucky peek through the clouds of Eve - we don't know why they sometimes thin out or develop holes but the latest view from the ATN Central 10m scope has captured the best look yet at land & sea features
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here's a look at the rough ride the rocket endured passing the transonic regime (+1 Mach), which lasted to some degree all the way through to MECO. This "roll shake" has been experienced to various extents in past flights and is still something we are trying to understand
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
great question. We were wondering if anyone would ask why no parallel runways but this is another reason besides winds changing a lot near the water. Aircraft can still take off/land on Rwy 03/21 even during launch operations
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSC is about to get a lot bigger! Here is the final plan for the commercial airport expansion project that will begin construction this month and finish up by August. Work on the new railway tunnel from Umbarg continues on schedule to be complete in early March
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Engineer Simon is having his teams perform yet another full and extensive check of the launch pad and ground service equipment now that it's all been actually used to make double sure the repairs are holding before any missions in Feb are approved for flight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
airship is on its way back to Sheltered Rock after locating and recovering the RTG casing - β¨π KERZZAH!! πβ¨ we should hear by next month how it endured its ballistic return from space. Perhaps sooner we'll also get a full report on the performance of this flight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have failed to regain contact with the payload after plasma blackout, as expected. Ground controllers are already using the last-received data to give our airship charter a smaller box of coordinates to search for the impacted RTG, the only part that will be recovered
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
less than a minute to atmospheric re-entry. At apokee after fuel tank purge the RTG, probe core, batteries & antenna were separated from the lift stage as planned so its large drag doesn't slow things down further. The antenna will most likely burn off during re-entry
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
already only 20s from apokee, updated plot of the rocket's trajectory shows it on a shallower path, despite final apokee almost spot-on with LVD planning, with re-entry further downrange in a lower area, which is not ideal since it gives RTG more time to slow down
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MECO @ 45km along w/ separation of the payload fairings. Rocket managed to orient and hold prograde even as the atmosphere continues to rapidly thin. Apokee was just over 80km at MECO but will degrade ever so slightly as rocket coasts out of atmo & still encounters drag
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
past Mach 1.3 rocket picked up roll shake that has eased but continues thru 2nd min of flight. Rocket wobble seems to be having an effect on pitch control. Significant heating has built up at the nose but this was expected & should ease after passing through 40km in a few seconds
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
some serious steering corrections early even before launch likely from gusting winds but rocket is now stable, through Max Q and has achieved supersonic velocity. Throttle program running as programmed to keep speed in check. Course is back on track & pitch nominal
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
engine start good, launch thrust nominal - we have LIFT OFF!! The 11th Ascension Mk1 begins its ascent to pave the way to orbit for the Ascension Mk2. Throttle program will kick in once it clears the tower and begins to increase its pitch over downrange
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3m] tank pressurization has begun to strengthen it & allow the rocket to stand rigid atop the launch clamp after the service structure has been swung away and the rocket is at the mercy of surface winds, which have just started gusting
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this flight is operating under extremely tight tolerances for various aspects. If you see any yellow or red flashing telemetry values during the ascent, these are the constraints the rocket will be operating under. Values are trigger thresholds
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] Range Safety Officer has closed the range, pad crews have cleared out. Flight Termination System is ACTIVE, engine is ARMED. All kerbs must remain inside designated spectator areas & remember hearing protection while outdoors for launch is REQUIRED
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-45m] pad is locked down, crews standing by in case any new issues pop up in the launch rehearsal that is about to get underway. Crowds are starting to gather outside as more kerbs are bused over from the Support Village. Astronaut Complex mess hall closes in 20min!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
to be clear, boats, aircraft and airship all exist in the area, but they are all staying outside our exclusion zone and they are all operating on registered route plans. A "bogey" would be any object of unknown nature, not just on track towards KSC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h30m] rocket is healthy & prepped for flight! Issues board remains clear, now to ensure airspace & waters around KSC will remain clear for launch as well. SkyWatch is currently tracking no bogeys on course for KSC but will remain vigilant while ground crews close out the pad
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h55m] rocket has been initialized & configured for fueling. Crews on the pad have been given the GO by controllers to begin onloading 7t of liquid propellants, then clearing out to a safe distance for the duration of tanking operations. Check out the new pad lights!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
more details on the Mk2 orbital path colors from our Ops Director earlier this month: twitter.com/DKerman_KSA/stβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the slower ascent also means the final trajectory is reasonable - at full throttle this ascent would send the Mk1 halfway to Mun!! This would place it out of radio range, unsure of its impact location. Instead it will fall around Sheltered Rock to perform another RTG impact test
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
in addition to flying the same pitch profile, the Mk1 also has to throttle to match velocity of the slower & heavier Mk2. If it didn't do this, the faster speed would increase airflow and thus control authority, making it harder to determine if Mk2 could then follow suit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h40m] all of Flight Director Lanalye's launch team A are assembled & ready, now going through the final pre-flight briefing. Mission profile will simulate a Mk2 ascent, tasking the Mk1 to fly the same trajectory that has already been simulated to place a Mk2 into orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h10m] weather balloon that was released earlier today has returned data that meteorologists have used in their updated forecast which predicts 90% favorable launch conditions at the surface. That is a GO for launch controllers to get on console & begin prep for prelaunch ops
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-5)
1/22
#2π 07:09:09 π10:59:38
#3π 13:10:00 !!π!! π17:00:29
#4π 19:10:51 π23:01:20
1/23
#1π 01:11:42 π05:02:11
@ KSC (UTC-5)
1/22
#2π 07:09:09 π10:59:38
#3π 13:10:00 !!π!! π17:00:29
#4π 19:10:51 π23:01:20
1/23
#1π 01:11:42 π05:02:11
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ongoing mystery goo studies have found the larger colonies that seem to allow for higher-level functions are much more successful in locating new deposits of Kuudite, allowing for our future demand of RTGs to be met once they are certified for space use
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
weather conditions continue to fail to meet launch commit criteria, which means we will stand down today and make another attempt tomorrow, targeting lift off @ 18:40 UTC which means we'll have a decision to begin launch countdown @ 15:30 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch has been delayed 6hrs due to upper-level winds & the threat of a low-pressure system encroaching from out at sea carrying thick cloud cover over the KSC. We will launch another balloon to determine if conditions have improved to begin countdown @ 20:27 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our new tighter launch commit criteria extends to launch procedures as well, as in we will not even start them w/o good indication of acceptable weather later in the day. Balloon is already on its way up to give meteorologists data to determine if countdown will begin @ 14:27 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-5)
1/21
#2π 07:05:45 π10:56:14
#3π 13:06:36 !!π!! π16:57:05
#4π 19:07:27 π22:57:56
1/22
#1π 01:08:18 π04:58:47
@ KSC (UTC-5)
1/21
#2π 07:05:45 π10:56:14
#3π 13:06:36 !!π!! π16:57:05
#4π 19:07:27 π22:57:56
1/22
#1π 01:08:18 π04:58:47
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ops Director @DKerman_KSA has received & reviewed all launch readiness reports. Despite new stricter launch commit criteria for all aspects of our rocket programs, the teams have stepped up and all is ready for launch attempt tomorrow π! Countdown set to begin @ 14:27 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Flight Director Lanalye has been drilling her A team hard since the start of the month to get back to used to working with the Ascension after two months of Progenitor operations. The B team has already been working since last month to prep for operations with the Progeny Mk7-B
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Ascension Mk1 began its trip to the launch pad a short while ago to be mounted, seen here rolling out of the shadow of the VAB as we approach 2nd sunset. By the time the sun rises again it will be vertical and undergoing final launch readiness checks
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb is taking it easy this weekend to recover from the strain of centrifuge training while Val has also come down with a head cold, meaning we have no active crew to answer the KWS call for a storm flight. They are starting to get a bit miffed at our "lack of cooperation". Srsly?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
in the past we've used "scrub" and "delay" a bit interchangeably to describe the withholding of a planned launch. Moving forward they will have specific uses. "Scrub" will define a launch in process that was halted during countdown. "Delay" will occur before countdown starts
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
while it's true moisture can condense at the top of the VAB & drip down if the environment system were turned off, please don't believe tales of clouds & rain mmk?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
back on schedule, the high-altitude KerBalloon crew had a good release and recovery. They report there's still not much to see at the site for the new surface colony. Lots of surveying has yet to be completed before any construction can begin
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Periapsis Co. has confirmed our order for 8 Boostertron IIs. 4 will be used for flights of the Mk7-B and 4 will be used for ground testing. Starting next month 2 boosters will be delivered per month (Feb[test, test], Mar[flight, test], Apr[flight, test], May[flight, flight])
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
released from under the wing at 7km, the small probe can actually travel a fair distance as it falls, using its tail fins for stability. Alternately the fins can be removed and the chute immediately deployed for it to fall slowly & over a smaller area
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Kerbin Weather Service will soon be providing us with dropsondes that can be mounted to the wings of the Deuce. These will allow for much more detailed data recording of the various layers of storms as they descend, something the aircraft had to do itself in prior missions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb & Bob have begun taking runs in the centrifuge that will simulate re-entry forces similar to what Cdr val endured on her flight, which flew the highest with a kerbal aboard
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although the Kerbin Weather Service called us, hoping to have a storm over the plains north of KSC investigated, the Deuce is ironically grounded due to unfavorable weather over KSC as well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
unfortunately integration issues prevented us from using the Parallel Control Unit as planned to begin experimenting with backup flight computers. This will attempt to instead be integrated with the Progeny Mk7-C later this year twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here is the final design of the Progeny Mk7-B! It will test reliability & recoverability of the new dual-segment SRB, vector control authority, PLF heat & pressure tolerances & better energy management for reaction wheel control of heavy masses. Full res: flickr.com/gp/kerbal_spacβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
there were 13 known impact events last year, 7 of which occurred over water. Via extrapolation it's likely there were at least 5 additional water impacts that we did not catch, which thankfully occurred outside of regular shipping lanes. Overall impact rate less than 2018 tho
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
these are all the impact events recorded by seismograph in 2019. Circle size represents strength but does not always correlate directly to asteroid size. A Class-E could split up and impact small bits over a wide area to create a smaller signal than an intact Class-C impact
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Asteroid Tracking Network is also vying for time on the telescope to take images of Chikelu as well, but it's polar orbit means it doesn't pass over the observatory as often as Alaba does, so it might still be a while
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
despite imaging several passing NKOs since it became operational at the start of 2019, the backlog of time requests for Arekibo meant that until now no orbiting moonlets had been studied via its active radar. Here at last is a look at Alaba!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Engineer Simon reports the launch pad is ready for action, Mk1 final integration is proceeding well in the VAB so we have gone and set our first launch date for 2020! Get ready for the Ascension Mk1 to blast off next week, 1/21 @ 18:37 UTC π! ops.kerbalspace.agency
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the science expedition that departed late last year has returned with data on over 250 new species of wildlife native to the island along with new potential crops that could be grown at the upcoming surface colony for food & medicine twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
high-altitude KerBalloon team has now made their own departure, setting out via airship for the new surface colony location to perform an advanced weather survey that will help planners decided how best to place structures
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with the Ascension Mk1 lift stage back in the VAB the encapsulated payload can now be integrated, beginning with a vertical stack to ensure load-bearing parts of the payload truss and fuel tank are properly manufactured before lying horizontal for final close-out checks
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
crew training was planned and begun last month but has now kicked into high gear for the next kerbed Ascension mission (TBD NET Mar). Captain Jeb will once again be primary crew with Specialist Bob as his backup. Spc Bill will be primary on CapCom with Commander Val as his backup
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
to ensure the pad repairs are good to go, the next Ascension Mk1 has been rolled out today sans payload to hook up to the service tower for testing and a wet dress rehearsal. Lead Engineer Simon says results will be in next week on pad readiness
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
up until now the crew service tower has also acted as a lightning rod but the Ascension Mk2 can rise taller so rods have been installed around the pad to protect it from any hazardous weather. Yes, they are also sunk several meters into the ground & will stop an aircraft
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Dhumla prototype takes to the sky from the Kongo River base on yet another test flight as it nears full certification & the start of production. This aircraft will be a game-changer for shipping, hauling less cargo than an airship but up to 4x as fast
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all our crew have gotten to test out the centrifuge, which can spin up occupants or attached payloads to 18Gs. Bob was the only one to throw up, Val managed to last the longest under sustained 9G @ 12s but Jeb was the fastest to recover after waking up & Bill was most disoriented
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/KerBalloonProg⦠teams will both base out of KSC again for the time being, set for weather analysis flights this month as meteorology gradually becomes more important to kerbs besides us as surface activity continues to increase
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a new photo has been captured of the KSC to update our online banner images - also we made another significant upgrade after the completion of pad repairs over the break. Look closely in front of the Support Village for the engine test stands & the VAB for the MLP
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
behind the payload workers are busy getting the old static fins off the future Mk2 tank to be replaced with actuating fins, which will also be tested on the next Mk1, which is off-image to the right at "center stage" for final tank/engine/fin integration checks
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Engineer Simon reports work in the VAB is ramping up well coming back from the break, with final checks being performed on the next Ascension Mk1 payload before it is encapsulated in the first set of 1.25m payload fairings set to be flown hopefully later this month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the fact that there are so many large NKOs has led some astronomers to theorize a smaller body might once have existed in a close orbit to Kerbin, which was somehow destroyed to leave behind a debris ring near us & perhaps caused the Sea Ring impact bit.ly/KSAHistory
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no big surprises in the latest annual Asteroid Tracking Network survey from last year. Although more asteroids were found in the Main Belt to retake some categories, unfortunately the largest amount of Class E objects remain NKOs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
wait what?? JEB!!!
There is no rocket launch today. We apologize for any confusion
And we are changing our password
There is no rocket launch today. We apologize for any confusion
And we are changing our password
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-5)
1/8
#2π10:12:02
#3π 12:22:24 !!π!! π16:12:53
#4π 18:23:15 π22:13:44
1/9
#1π 00:24:06 π04:14:35
#2π 06:24:57
@ KSC (UTC-5)
1/8
#2π10:12:02
#3π 12:22:24 !!π!! π16:12:53
#4π 18:23:15 π22:13:44
1/9
#1π 00:24:06 π04:14:35
#2π 06:24:57
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
an early decision that was nearly unanimous was to retask the Extremis program to include *all* missions sent to other bodies, not just the original fly-by attempts currently being planned. This could make it relevant as early as this year with a Mun/Minmus mission
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
keeping near the yearly average, 11 known rocks entered our SOI in Dec. We hope to continue to see encounters trend downwards in 2020 altho when ATN North & South come online towards the end of this year, its likely the number will increase. 2019 avg passing distance was 25Mm
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it has now been 1 kerbolar year on Jool since the KSA began operations back in 2016. Here are all the major events that have transpired since then. You can use this flicker album to look at past events in the time of Dres, Duna, etc flickr.com/photos/kerbal_β¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
additionally while it can reach perikee positive & perhaps even orbit with some more coaxing, program leads feel the design is trying too hard to satisfy too many test requirements & the 2nd stage SRB should be removed - just one of the many big decisions to be made this week...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although we had hoped to release a blueprint of the Progeny Mk7-B last month, issues still remain to be worked out with the rocket's current design, which places the LF/O tank in a position that leaves no good mounting options for its attachment to an existing service tower boom
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
out of the photos we posted last year, these are the ones that best define 2019 with our 4 top picks attached here. Is there a photo from 2019 that you remember well? Let us know, as well as why it stuck in your mind as notable flickr.com/photos/kerbal_β¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
over the operational break the centrifuge was completed, adjacent to our HQ in Umbarg. It's been going through test runs with Greggery and this week our crew should all get a chance to pull some major extended Gs and see what they are really capable of
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
welcome to 2020!! ππ₯ Kerbs are eager to get back to work next week, so much so that Operations Director @DKerman_KSA revoked access privileges to force some to take a vacation. We're not naming names but their initials start with Wernher von Kerman
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
check it out - 2019 was the first full calendar year that saw continuous operations! We did take a few hits this year that reduced our operational capacity but KSC was not shut down for any extended period of time. Here's looking to a stronger 2020!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
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
a tumultuous year for our crew - a death, severe injury, severe anxiety, almost getting blown up... Val & Bill had it the best with successful space missions. Hopefully Jeb & Bob will get to pin some new ribbons next year. Will our crew grow again? Possibly
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VAB is getting everything organized to pick up with Ascension assembly next year, launch pad repairs are on schedule to wrap up next week, Launch Control is prepping for system upgrades over the operations break... we're almost ready to bid farewell to 2019!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
aircraft operations decreased significantly from 42 missions last year however flight duration and range both increased, plus Jeb & Val were mostly busy with Ascension then we lost two pilots as well which didn't help. Still, a decent accounting this year for Genesis
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here are some choice images of UYO-577(E) that were captured by Arekibo Radio Observatory as it tumbled by this week, captured with the best resolution of any asteroid so far. What a lumpty dumpty space rock. It is approximately 32m across
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
let us mention politics briefly to congratulate Presider Theonard on his re-election! His administration helped to establish the KSA & his defeat of pro-Monolithic and anti-space candidates sends a clear message that the kerbs of Kerbin want to venture to the stars πβ¨
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
night has caught up with MSV Aldeny on its return voyage & they were able to better bounce signal to Sheltered Rock & confirm they have an intact payload aboard β¨π KERZZAH!! πβ¨ a fabulous conclusion to 2019 operations π₯ it will be back tomorrow to return the rocket
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
through apokee, now for the fall back down. Science instruments remain occupied, power levels good, data drives are filling up. Rocket's spin is keeping it upright like a top so it's now pointing radial-out & will be aimed retrograde by the time it enters the atmosphere in ~8min
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
up, up & AWAY!! Rocket has shot off atop the flame of its lower 0.625m booster, which will accelerate it at up to 4Gs over the next 34s to push up above 13km and beyond 600m/s. It will then drop the booster & coast until the nose drops 1.5Β° before igniting the 2nd stage
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all quiet inside Launch Control - a good sign. As usual the students/mentors responsible for this rocket's payload are here to watch, they'll head outside shortly. Controllers giving their systems one last good look for any issues to call out at final general polls in a few mins
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] range is clear, rocket is ARMED for ignition & Flight Termination System is ACTIVE. We are glad to hear reports kerbs had no problems getting through security to their launch viewing locations. Please remain within marked areas or you will be removed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] weather desk reports surface winds are behaving, storm appears to be lingering out to sea. The last ground crew members are leaving the launch site & we have GO to begin final countdown procedures. Controllers switching back to the live rocket to reset from rehearsal
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h55m] rocket remains well-behaved, no issues reported so far. Ground crew clearing back from the launch site for safety while controllers give the engines & ignition systems a thorough checkout and wrap up preflight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h40m] weather desk has determined storm will be of low to no threat - we will actually fly over it. We are proceeding with launch procedures, now to see if any change needs to be made to the favorable local forecast made yesterday. Expect further updates at these times
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after a smooth approach and landing the Deuce has taxied back to the HAB, here's a shot of it coming in from atop Launch Control. Weather data will be analyzed & we will have a conditions update when launch procedures are scheduled to begin later today @ 18:57 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb got back in touch with us a few mins ago & Val has vectors with clearance for a straight-in approach to Rwy27, looks like they got a good slice of the storm in one pass - Kat says the cabin windows need shades, she was very distracted by the lightning in the darkness
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb signed off as they dipped below the horizon. It's dark, you can't see storm clouds. Flying at a constant altitude allows Katgan in the back to begin to guide them towards the lower pressure area out to sea where the storm resides
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-5)
12/18
#2π09:00:36 π 11:10:57
#3π15:01:27 π 17:11:48 ??π??
#4π21:02:18 π 23:12:39
12/19
#1π03:03:09 π 05:13:30
@ KSC (UTC-5)
12/18
#2π09:00:36 π 11:10:57
#3π15:01:27 π 17:11:48 ??π??
#4π21:02:18 π 23:12:39
12/19
#1π03:03:09 π 05:13:30
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Commander Valentina is happy there are so many more kerbettes out there following us now! She expressed hope back in 2016 that our female audience would grow and is pleased to see it happening
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all launch readiness reviews have been approved by Ops Dir @DKerman_KSA but an eye is still on the weather. Seas are rougher now where MSV Aldeny is & we'll get more info on the storm when the Deuce flies home tomorrow instead of keeping its original schedule to arrive back today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Aldeny set sail earlier today for the recovery zone 325km to the east and has contacted us through Sheltered Rock to report ships passing them headed for Umbarg say a storm is working westwards & could affect recovery or launch tomorrow (not actual sail route)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Dhumla has just received its preliminary flight certification from the Air Safety Administration. Flight testing continues but the design of the aircraft is locked in for manufacturing to begin production models at C7's plant in Kravass
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the final Progeny Mk6 Block I of 2019 has completed closeout procedures, is now loaded up and marshaled into position to squeeze past the Mobile Launch Platform tomorrow when it rolls out to the North Field launch site for readiness checks
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon program was unable to secure any nearby missions & is packing it up for the year. Kongo high-alt crew are happy to finally be heading home. Year in review shows how we are still sticking mainly to our hemisphere, but satellites in 2020 could change that
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
entering earlier today, UYO-577(E) masses over 6 megatons which isn't the heaviest known to pass through but is the 12th heaviest known NKO. It's also due for a second pass at the start of Feb 2020. At both ascending/descending nodes Arekibo will be able to radar it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
every now and then warm moist air blowing off the water hits the mountains to the west, cools, rains out & rushes back over night as a cold front to meet the still warm sea air and we get fogged in here at KSC come the dawn
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KAS has now recognized a second type of Kupier Belt Object dubbed "Plockino", which are a group of icy asteroids that have been found to be in a similar 2:3 resonance with Neidon like Plock itself is twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN has officially removed bit.ly/Zosimus from its catalog. No sign of the asteroid has been found and it likely broke apart on its last pass through the atmosphere earlier this week. Data from its encounters with our atmosphere will help improve aerobrake models
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the final Progeny Mk6-I rocket of 2019 was stacked in the VAB today for checks on its load bearing elements, clearing the way for Ascension assembly to take "center stage" next year. In the back are the core stages for the Ascension Mk1 and Mk2 & the Viklun orbital stage
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch pad resurfacing was completed last week to allow work on the service structures to now begin. Further back from the pad, the crew tower has already seen repairs to the minor damage it suffered and we look forward to finally using it in 2020!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
these kerbs went missing months ago but the link between them and the exiles was not made until after recent events, and they will likely be able to give up more associates in the ring of religious followers who initially re-established contact with the exiles
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
huge break in the criminal investigation into the attack on KSC just announced by KNN - the airship crew that was scheduled to be flying by the exiled Monolithic followers at the time of first contact have at last been found hiding in an abandoned cavern & rounded up
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
aircraft is rolling up the runway, which is sloped at 2.4Β° to make it even easier to stop and not run into the mountain at the end. The crew will spend a week in Sheltered Rock training a Kerbin Weather Service team to carry out their own Deuce flights in this region
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb gave the "yeehaw!" as he steered into "The Chute", where you have to drop nearly 2km of altitude in <2min with pitch angles of up to 15-20Β° while pulling a hard left bank to line up with the runway at ~140m/s even at full reverse thrust - it's quite the ride!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
approach to SRG at night is also possible with visual aids, beacons atop various peaks along the path towards the runway whose colors help keep pilots oriented. But this is nowadays considered a last-ditch backup option in the event of instrument failure & no range for alternate airport
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Katgan has led the Deuce on several passes through the weak low pressure system and told the flight crew enough data has been gathered. They are now setting up for an instrument approach to SRG. With the amount of terrain that needs to be avoided, strict adherence is essential
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
one final image, the sun setting behind the peaks as the aircraft works north around the mountains towards the stormier weather. The crew needs to now focus on flying - especially since it's going to be night soon, even if most of their flight path should be over lowlands
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
from the Deuce belly cam looking north as they fly past SRG, seen nestled up against the mountain to the right of the propeller. Calm and clear skies on this side of the Sheltered Rock mountain range belies what is on the far side over the horizon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Val has signed off with us temporarily as they cruise over the horizon, they'll be in range of Sheltered Rock's aerial in 15-20min. Jeb let the autopilot do its job and grabbed a photo out his window as they flew past Mt Kermon, tallest peak in the KSC/Umbarg region
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
crews are prepping the Deuce to depart later today on a scheduled flight to Sheltered Rock with Jeb & Val in command. Katgan is also along for the ride since there happens to be a small storm north of SRG that could warrant some investigation
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
there has been no sighting of Zosimus in the time that was given for astronomers to use the IR scope at ATN Central. They may have not been looking along the right trajectory though and its even tighter orbit could bring it around to the night side as early as tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
both ATN North & South observatories remain on schedule to begin operations next year, with equipment calibration and final installment to begin next month ahead of commissioning runs beginning in Q2 2020 for both observatories
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
earlier today at 17:06 UTC almost 600km southeast of ATN Central, Zosimus began its fourth pass through the atmosphere. Astronomers are again attempting to look for it with the ATN Central IR scope for early confirmation of whether it still survived
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
post-launch ops finishing up. Without needing a MSV offshore to monitor the range anymore, has anyone wondered how we release or recover weather balloons out to sea? We've always had our own small boat that can handle this task when needed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
β¨πKERZZAH!!πβ¨ Another successful mission - MSV Aldeny reports they had no trouble homing in on the rocket's beacon and fished it intact out of shallow waters ~3km offshore. They'll have it back to us early tomorrow. Congrats to all the rocketry teams!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket is through apokee and on its way back down for re-entry. Power remains steady, telemetry looking good, orientation on target for coming down engine-first, onboard data drives continue to fill up with sciency science. Also, here's a launch video π Whooosh!!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket is coasting up to a 462km apokee over the next ~8min, amazing what a difference 20kg makes (payloads for these last two rockets are lighter than the first two). Onboard experiments have already begun to gather data
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
as just described, ascent continues nominally with the 3rd stage showing a good burn as it finishes the push out of the atmosphere, terminating just prior to reaching space. Was good to hear the shouts & claps of the crowds outside again
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good ignition and LIFT OFF! Rocket is zooming away under 67kN of thrust for initial ascent up to ~13km before the 1st stage drops away. 2nd stage will coast and light off when nose drops 1.5Β°. After it is expended 3rd stage will hot fire. All within the next minute!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
as with previous launches, all the student members and their mentors who participated in designing and building the two experiments being launched today are with us here in Launch Control. Outside, actually - the view from inside really isn't that great
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] RSO has closed the range and launch site, Flight Termination System is ACTIVE and all rocket motors have been ARMED for ignition. All visitors must remain within assigned viewing locations
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h55m] all systems looking good, fuel has remained stable @ proper tank levels since yesterday. Ground crews clearing the launch site so controllers can begin testing ignition systems for the 3 engines. A few mins ago 1st visitor shuttles began heading over the causeway
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h10m] Flight Director Lanalye has gathered her team for pre-launch briefing. Since Ascension missions are on hold, the A team will fire these last two launches while B team is held in reserve. As usual, basic Mk6-I mission plan will be in use
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-5)
12/10
#2π08:33:24 π 10:43:45 !!π!!
#3π14:34:15 π 16:44:36
#4π20:35:06 π 22:45:27
12/11
#1π02:35:57 π 04:46:18
@ KSC (UTC-5)
12/10
#2π08:33:24 π 10:43:45 !!π!!
#3π14:34:15 π 16:44:36
#4π20:35:06 π 22:45:27
12/11
#1π02:35:57 π 04:46:18
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our recovery vessel MSV Aldeny has left port in Umbarg to sail out to the recovery zone in the eastern Kerblantic ~325km downrange. It travels 32km/h at best speed, so it will be on station by tomorrow & hopefully storm from yesterday has fizzled out like Kat predicted
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket carry vehicle, mounting vehicle, tanker and crew shuttle head for the launch site to get the rocket placed on the launch base. Site inspection was carried out at the end of last week to ensure the base remains level - it was moved a few meters to firmer ground
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
photo from the belly cam on today's flight as the aircraft flew over the low-pressure system @ 6km, just before the crew dove in to begin "slicing" it up and collecting data from various altitudes and flight angles from its edges through the center (did you spot Minmus?)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no issues on approach, Deuce is rolling out down the runway after a smooth landing. After taxiing back in the weather data will be offloaded & sent to the KWS for further analysis. We'll also have Kat use the data to see if the storm poses a threat to this week's launch recovery
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Val has made contact as Jeb flies them back, switching roles to ensure fatigue is not an issue. Vectors to KSC have been provided for a pattern approach to Rwy09. Val says Katgan is most pleased with the performance of the aircraft and instruments
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb signed off a few mins ago and sent back this photo of the coming sunrise just before the aircraft fell below the horizon and out of contact. ~350km to the last reported location of the storm will see them there in ~50min. They should be back within 3hrs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
flight crew is reporting to the aircraft for preflight as ground crew finishes prepping it with fuel & power. Val & Jeb will be up front while Katgan, our new resident meteorologist from the Kerbin Weather Service, will be using her console in the cabin to direct the flight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
weather desk has been given notice of a storm over the eastern Kerblantic. Genesis is scrambling the Deuce for a weather flight mission, as per contract negotiations. Due to the understandably unplanned nature of storms, we are now ready to go 7 days a week as needed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
#DYK the VAB shadow can stretch for 4km at sunrise? It is no longer the tallest structure on Kerbin since the construction of the Arekibo dish receiver however it does remain the largest structure built to be occupied at 67m tall
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
reminder to all KSC visitors this weekend to arrive at least 45min prior to your scheduled tour in order to have enough time to deal with the new stricter security procedures that are now in place. Used to be over an hour, we've streamlined as much as possible these past 2 weeks
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new update for bit.ly/Zosimus, which was already spotted still intact, still in orbit by the IR scope @ ATN Central thx to the heat being radiating after atmospheric passage & also now that astronomers had a better idea of where to look for it using data from prev passes
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Genesis program & Kerbin Weather Service have hashed out the contract terms for weather analysis flights the Deuce can undertake. Console adjustments have been made based on Bill's feedback from the last mission & Lead Scientist Cheranne has a KWS meteorologist training to use it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
an update on the Ops Tracker for bit.ly/Zosimus gives details on its latest atmospheric pass, starting this minute ~400km south of ATN Central. Will it continue to hold true to its namesake & survive again? We'll know in a few days once it can potentially be re-observed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've re-opened registration for public weekend tours at KSC and tickets for viewing the next Progeny launches this month are also now available. Please pay careful attention during registration of the new security protocols. Thanks to everyone for their cooperation!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/Zosimus has been confirmed to be back on its way down for a 3rd pass through our atmosphere! Astronomers have noticed it is dimmer, tho that could simply mean it's smaller from ablation or perhaps it has accumulated sooty dark material
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a very happy birthday to Flight Officer Tedman (Ret)! He continues to teach pilots & remain involved in aviation outreach as well as recover more & more mobility through physical therapy, still hoping to get back in the cockpit someday. An inspiration! ops.kerbalspace.agency/?crew=ted
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
because you're looking through the least amount of air when zenith eclipses, those that happen straight up, darken the sky bright stars and nebulae can be seen, as well as planets, like Moho just down and to the right of Mun and the sun
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the 4 KSP experiments that will ride aboard the next two Progeny Mk6-I launches next month have arrived for final processing in the VAB, which is basically attaching them to the payload truss and flight computer. All other testing is done offsite as they are built
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ASA has forbade flights around asteroid grazes but perhaps some pilots allowed themselves to be exorbitantly bribed. If so, none have been caught. Also no kerbs have been noted missing. No doubt any who tried & failed to be taken simply told themselves they had to be more pious
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Monolithic followers are once again trying to get airship or aircraft operators to travel to where Zosimus is predicted to enter the atmosphere as they believe this and other asteroid passes are really "Motherships" swooping past to pick up the True Believers
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the magnificent Sarnus rises with Eeloo nestled among its rings and Slate higher up above. Slate is just 60km smaller than Kerbin and this is what the view would look like from its orbit around the gas giant in our latest Kerbin Relocated series render
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the aerobrake is over an area too remote to setup monitoring stations so this plot is not entirely accurate as it is based on last-known trajectory prior to atmospheric entry. Likewise the Ops Tracker no longer shows an orbit for it because we won't have new data for several days
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Zosimus has entered the atmosphere this minute for its second pass, dropping down to 54.5km at perikee and will be traveling at over 3km/s. The dip will last barely two minutes but the heat could still fracture the small rock before it escapes back into space
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
β¨KERZZAH!β¨ today we get to celebrate our 11th trip around Kerbol on space ship Kerbin since the KSA began operations back in 2016. That brings our celestial odometer up to 939,011,983.1456km or nearly 1 light hour. Here's to another 106.5 day trip around the sun π₯
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've been hearing news reports about increased seismic activity around the volcano to the south. Lead Scientist Cheranne contacted her friend on the project studying the volcano & says not to worry. Yes, magma appears to be near the surface but no uplift or outgassing detected
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
between launch campaigns now, the Tracking Station is taking the time to perform some maintenance and calibrations on the three 7m dishes to ensure they continue to steer and point accurately for future missions
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
in order to meet more stringent safety regulations that have begun to go into effect by KSA upper management, future Ascension Mk1 capsule flights will also carry radial chutes up near the top as backup in the unlikely event of a *complete* main chute failure
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Head of R&D Wernher von Kerman reports that although his engineers worked hard, they could not come up with a more powerful LES for last-ditch chute failure recovery which could also remain the same size and still fit atop the Mk1 capsule
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Scientist Cheranne is eager to pass on new weather data to her colleagues in the meteorological field while Lead Engineer Simon will be expecting a report from Bill & the flight crew on how the console functioned so any tweaks can be made for future missions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
back in sight of KSC, Jeb has the aircraft descending for pattern entry. Looks like they went up and down and all around out there. Val says Bill was having a bit too much fun being in charge & once they had to head home with a full data store the flight crew cut the intercom
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Val has signed off as they duck behind the mountains, which Bill has already tried to make them fly into. Not on purpose - he can't see out the front and saying "hold at 2.5km" when a cliff face is looming ahead obviously isn't a command the flight crew will follow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Deuce has departed from Rwy27 & is climbing to cruise altitude. Weather reports already have them heading northwest for a low-pressure system on the other side of the mountains. From there it will be up to Bill and his interpretation of the data
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill gets to backseat drive today as Jeb and Val prep the Deuce for departure. Although not a trained meteorologist, Bill will check out the operation of the new analysis console at his seat to monitor instrument data and instruct the flight crew where to go
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
digging began on the new access tunnel that will carry rail freight from the 2020 KSC commercial expansion. Due to lack of infrastructure on our side the 45km tunnel will be dug one way from Umbarg to KSC over the next 3 months
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today the ASA put into effect new procedures & regulations to strictly monitor all flights via airship & aircraft to/from the Kongo River research station. Anyone trying to divert & supply the exiled cultists will find their mission to be a lot harder now
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have word from the Kongo the KB high-alt crew finally rolled back in three days overdue after they had to seek shelter from a massive sandstorm that blew through - thankfully after they had released and recovered their balloon, seen here on initial ascent
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
OFU-009(A) has been captured! It's on the Ops Tracker designated bit.ly/Zosimus, ancient Kerbskrit for "viable" or "likely to survive" - which its discoverers bet on happening after its aerobrake. Unfortunately the namesake will not hold & it will eventually hit Kerbin
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
#OTD in 2018 we announced the completion of our newly-paved and lit runway. Campus admin is planning to add a N/S paved runway along with additional hangars & tarmac space in 2020 for an expansion that will allow commercial traffic to use KSC as a regional airport for Umbarg
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are happy to announce that public weekends will be resuming at KSC tomorrow. The groups that will be attending have already been contacted. There is a backlog, so no new registrations for visitor passes will be permitted for the time being
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
early end to the week, everyone is ready to kick back for the weekend after the successful end to the first Kerbal Sounding Project launch campaign. 2 more next month! Also the ASA report was released today & we have all the details in our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=10060
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
post-launch operations are wrapping up and we have recently been contacted by MSV Aldeny through the Sheltered Rock aerial to confirm they have recovered the payload intact 315.383km downrange! β¨π KERZZAH! πβ¨ bring home that sweet, sweet science data!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're at the top of the atmosphere now just seconds from the start of re-entry. Rocket is coming down about 45km to the north of where MSV Aldeny positioned itself which puts it around 1.5hrs away at best speed. It should already be well underway by now
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MECO-3 just before entering space now has the rocket coasting up to an apokee of 376km over the next ~6min - much closer to what was expected the first flight given the extra payload mass. By now MSV Aldeny should be receiving its telemetry as well to plot the landing zone
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lift off! 0.625m lower SRB has ignited to push the rocket off the launch base with 67.2kN of force. It will burn out after 34s, carrying the rocket above 13km and in excess of 600m/s. The rocket will then coast, once its nose drops 1.5Β° the 2nd stage booster will ignite
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] RSO has confirmed the range is clear, rocket is now ARMED and Flight Termination System ACTIVE. Once again the only non-KSC staff spectating the launch are those students & their mentors directly involved with the two experiments launching on this flight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-45m] controllers have begun a launch rehearsal to ensure all systems are properly setup for flight. Here is a photo from one of the crew vans as they loaded up to move everyone outside the blast radius about 20 minutes ago after the launch site was secured
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-5)
11/22
#2π07:32:12 π 09:42:33 !!π!!
#3π13:33:03 π 15:43:24
#4π19:33:54 π 21:44:15
11/23
#1π01:34:45 π 03:45:06
@ KSC (UTC-5)
11/22
#2π07:32:12 π 09:42:33 !!π!!
#3π13:33:03 π 15:43:24
#4π19:33:54 π 21:44:15
11/23
#1π01:34:45 π 03:45:06
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
tanking operations have just concluded out in the North Field. We've used some extra structural panels from other projects to give the launch base more surface area and hopefully prevent any sinkage that could affect the launch angle/heading like last flight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
any Monolithic followers in league with the Great Desert extremists that have not already been arrested appear to be keeping low profiles however this of course does not mean security measures at KSC and our corporate HQ in Umbarg will be relaxed in any way
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the government has allowed religious leaders to re-open the Monolith temple to regular worshipers once again. The attack on KSC has been slowly accepted as an anomaly - violent protests have been non-existent despite regular occurrences throughout the caverns
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Progeny Mk6-I has completed final check outs and is being loaded up onto the carry vehicle now for roll out tomorrow. The non-reusable parts for the rockets scheduled to launch in December are already well on the way to being assembled into complete stages
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
past updates may have erroneously referred to the new capsule as the Mk2, but the decision has since been made to mark capsules by occupancy, so a Mk2 capsule would be able to seat two astronauts. Letter designations will indicate revisions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all 4 astronauts are working closely with the Ascension design team in charge of the Mk1-B capsule, which will be more capable of returning from higher altitudes with less Gs & also being able to withstand re-entry heat longer with the shallower re-entry profile
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
some joker has climbed up the flag pole in front of the Astronaut Complex and tied a pair of shorts to the top. Yup, we're all professionals here
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
allergic reactions to the pollen have continued to be reported and studied here at KSC but we have already seen a marked decrease in the number of cases due to better awareness during times of high pollen levels as well as better medication under development
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the first papers from the study, which concluded back in August and to which Genesis committed many missions to, have been published. This will allow for planners of the future surface colony to begin assessing any impact the nearby grassland flora will have on future surface dwellers twitter.com/ksa_missionctrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Dr. Murstap has been allowed to resume control of the rocket sled project as long as he remains the sole living test subject. Review board unanimously agreed he couldn't be trusted with anyone else's life. We wish him the best of luck out in the Kongo
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
final stacking of the Mk6-I took place earlier today in the VAB so checks could be carried out on load-bearing parts. All work on the Ascension side, seen in the background, has remained paused until at least next month when Progeny assembly winds down
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Air Safety Administration has confirmed it completed its investigation into the Deuce crash but has more work to do with law enforcement officials before the report can be released - hopefully by the end of this week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the asteroid is now either exploded, or heading back up towards SOI exit or apokee. In either of the latter scenarios its trajectory points almost directly towards the sun. If it is coming back around in a captured orbit, it will be some days before it can be spotted again
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the first atmospheric pass of OFU-009(A) occurred earlier at the start of today. Despite the advance notice, not enough funding was acquired in time for astronomers to lay out any observation stations along its path, so its fate is completely unknown at this time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
metallic asteroids only make up 5.65% of those on similar orbits to XAS-593(C) (Inner family) and taking nearly 3 years to find one crossing Kerbin's orbit bodes well, as far fewer are likely to be out there than was feared by astronomers
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN has announced discovery of the first metallic NKO, XAS-593(C). This is an object from the Main Belt family that has been put into a more eccentric orbit thanks to Jool than now crosses paths with Kerbin. It would hit harder than normal stony NKOs in orbits similar to ours
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it was great to welcome back public guests into KSC today. Only a few groups were picked from backlogged requests to give our new security measures a test. Things went smoothly and we could fully re-open public tours next weekend if a review of today is satisfactory
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
FCJ-191(E) has just entered our SOI for a very close fly-by of only 0.02 Munar Distance. Will make a good target for any amateur astronomers who have yet to spot an asteroid (don't get excited, it's just a brighter "star" but still a challenge to find among all the others)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
pad resurfacing has gotten underway as cracks had formed from the blast concussion. If any rocket engine exhaust gases forced themselves under the surface, they would gouge the underlying soil and possibly blow out a portion of the pad, damaging the structures & rocket
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astrophysicist Neil deWeet Kerman from the Kerman Observatory guest lectured at the science labs today, we gave him a VIP tour of the KSC and he even stopped to tell the janitor how we were all made of "star stuff"
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
night has once again fallen to the east, finally allowing MSV Aldeny to skip bounce radio to Sheltered Rock and report they are sailing home after recovering the payload intact washed up onshore. πβ¨ KERZZAH! πβ¨ Rocket is due to arrive back at KSC early tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
OFU-009(A) is now in-system and projections based on what limited data we have collected from previous atmospheric events suggests it will travel back out into Kerbolar orbit after a short aerobrake pass. We'll find out sometime next week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
post-launch operations completed, ground crew noticed the launch base had sunk into the ground, tilting forward from weight of full fuel tank & sitting out for so long. This would have also contributed to flattened flight. Embarrassing oversight by launch teams
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket is through apokee and on its way back down. The flatter trajectory has sent it outside the planned recovery zone, MSV Aldeny should already have calculated the same result and be on the move. Telemetry shows the onboard data drives filling up with science info
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MECO-3, the rocket has exited the atmosphere on its coast up to 300km apokee. While increased payload mass meant not reaching avg 485km height of past Mk6-I flights was expected, the unstable third stage likely didn't help. Still gives experiments plenty of time in space tho
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've had good ignition of the lower SRB and LIFT OFF! The 12th Progeny Mk6-I begins its ascent carrying two experiments designed & built by students. No issues clearing the launch base, first burn will last 34s to carry the rocket above 12km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-1m] rocket status remains nominal - standby for ascent telemetry to load if final poll prior to T-30s is successful - ops.kerbalspace.agency. Students outside launch control are so enthusiastic they've already started shouting the countdown
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] rocket is now ARMED with the Flight Termination System ACTIVE. RSO has closed the eastern range to all incursions, including the 300m blast exclusion zone around the launch site, at the edge of which sit ground support vehicles & ground crew
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-45m] rocket remains healthy out in the North Field and FD Lanalye has begun to run her team through a launch rehearsal to make sure everything is properly configured and all launch team members know their roles - especially all the new ones on the ground crew
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
while the general public cannot currently attend launches just like public weekends also remain closed, we were at least able to bring on campus the students & their mentors whose experiments are riding on this rocket so they could see the launch first-hand
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h30m] controllers have sounded the all clear, rocket is ready to go. Ground crew moving back in to secure the launch site while the Tracking Station works with the Range Safety Officer - no more MSV needed for this phase of launch operations thx to new radar system
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
sunrise outside of launch control right now. The clouds in the distance might warn of an approaching front and also signal a disturbance of the upper atmosphere. if so, we'll just have to hope we get the rocket launched before it gets here. Look again for Mun's sliver
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h10m] Flight Director Lanalye is briefing the B team of launch controllers on final details for today's mission, which will be a standard Mk6 ascent, sub-orbital flight and recovery. These flights are based solely on past experience & not modeled in LVD due to being unguided
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-5)
11/14
#2π07:05:00 π 09:15:21 !!π!!
#3π13:05:51 π 15:16:12
#4π19:06:42 π 21:17:03
11/15
#1π01:07:33 π 03:17:54
@ KSC (UTC-5)
11/14
#2π07:05:00 π 09:15:21 !!π!!
#3π13:05:51 π 15:16:12
#4π19:06:42 π 21:17:03
11/15
#1π01:07:33 π 03:17:54
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Deuce is taxiing back to the HAB after a smooth landing. It will be pulled back inside to undergo a bit of a cabin upgrade and allow a passenger to monitor the weather data as it is gathered and direct the flight crew towards areas of interest
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb has vectors to KSC once Val got in touch with us on their way back. They've collected as much data as the aircraft could store and will setup for a direct approach to Rwy27. Val says the ride got rather bumpy but nothing the aircraft couldn't handle
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Deuce departed a few minutes ago and will be out of contact over the horizon soon. Jeb is in command with Val on nav & comms. They will do their best to track the storm system and hopefully do not encounter conditions that are too rough for the aircraft
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
knowing there's a storm out at sea, Jeb & Val will take the Deuce (which has been repaired) for another science flight later today after 3rd sunrise to gather more in-situ weather data from the low-pressure system in the eastern Kerblantic
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
on moons like Eve's Gilly, which is only 13km in radius, you would literally have to watch your step if you were walking around because if you pushed too hard off one foot you might not be able to put the other foot down
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch for today has been scrubbed on account of reports from maritime vessels traveling from Sheltered Rock to Umbarg that a strong low-pressure system is sitting over our planned recovery zone & seas are too rough. We will try again tomorrow, targeting a 17:05 UTC lift off
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-5)
11/13
#2π07:01:36 π 09:11:57 !!π!!
#3π13:02:27 π 15:12:48
#4π19:03:18 π 21:13:39
11/14
#1π01:04:09 π 03:14:30
@ KSC (UTC-5)
11/13
#2π07:01:36 π 09:11:57 !!π!!
#3π13:02:27 π 15:12:48
#4π19:03:18 π 21:13:39
11/14
#1π01:04:09 π 03:14:30
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Genesis program has heard back from meteorologists they passed data to from our last science flight - they are eager for more! We haven't worked out any contract deals yet but will continue to share data when we can in the hopes of creating even more interest
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
both bit.ly/KerBalloonProg⦠crews have new contracts CFO Mortimer closed the deals on today. Hi-alt will remain in the Kongo region and venture deeper into the Great Desert while low-alt joins an expedition out near ATN Central
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket is mounted and will be fueled up later so Flight Director Lanalye and her B team can perform a wet dress rehearsal. Afterwards if all is well, since rocket is way out there & fuel is stable, the rocket will not be drained to allow for a condensed countdown tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Progeny Mk6 is on its way out for mounting. The last time we used the North Field launch site was back in 2018 when the service towers got in the way of ascending to the northeast when we were exploring the latitudinal extent of the inner radiation belt
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
CXV-620(E) has just made its entry into our SOI for a swing through our current bubble of space, coming no closer than 3.44 Munar Distance along the way. Originally expected to make another pass later this year, updated observationsshow it actually won't be back for at least 37yrs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our crew are taking most of the week off to recover from mild frostbite but at least they got some good experience from their last excursion. As we like to say - traveling into space can be dangerous but so can training to travel into space
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch crews are working today to get the Progeny launch base out of storage and moved to the North Field, beyond the runway just over 1km from the launch pad. The cable run distance from here to Launch Control have caused issues in the past that we've had to resolve
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
arrests have been made as the investigation into the attack on our launch pad continues to move forward. Those accused of collaborating with the exiled radicals will be offered plea bargains for cooperation in shutting down their local support network
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our crew had to ironically be rescued early from their survival exercise when a large storm swept through and destroyed their base camp, burying them in nearly 2m of snow. They are all still alive though so the exercise in survival can certainly be called a success
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
comparative analysis is still underway to determine why Vieras and Alaba eventually fall off their projected orbits after several Mun encounters - the number varies. We don't expect complete accuracy, but we're working with the KSPTOT dev to achieve better accuracy
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
so many deep cosmic mysteries exist that we are eager to find answers to in exploring space and yet closer to home there are ones just as mind-boggling. This still happens every now & again twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a final report has been submitted by Lead Engineer Simon after review of the launch pad damage. It will take at least the remainder of the year - we need to make major repairs with minor replacements, but hopefully we can kick off 2020 with an Ascension launch!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the final K2-X static fire testing of 2019 went well today on the vertical test stand, proving that the engine will be capable of lifting the Ascension Mk2 up into (hopefully) orbit. It will be returned to the VAB next week for refurbishment
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no adverse reports from maritime vessels regarding DUH-402(C), which likely impacted the water surface but any waves it generated wouldn't be dangerous out at sea. A large wave advisory is in place for today at KSC but impacts tend to produce smaller waves than low airbursts
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
one of the basic skills astronauts learn is wilderness survival. If something goes awry during a mission that puts them down outside of the planned landing area, they may need to survive on their own for hours or days. Our crew will be on training exercises this weekend
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we loaded up the Dhumla with cargo for the first time earlier today & it just successfully departed for the Kongo River research facility where it will conduct the remainder of its flight trials and overall development under sole oversight of C7 Aerospace Division
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have no official statement to give in response - we have cooperated with the ASA in giving them access to the aircraft debris from the launch pad but that is the extent of our involvement. Lots of questions tied to this revelation will certainly take more time to answer
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KNN reported a leak from the ASA investigation into the wreckage of the Deuce that crashed into our launch pad: conclusive evidence has been found that it is the plane reported missing earlier this year. The remains of the sole occupant who piloted the plane have yet to be ID'd
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after VNQ-400(D) exploded mid-air and sunk a ship last month (unkerbed monitoring vessel) the Maritime Service has put stricter enforcement on ships sticking to trade routes so any missing vessels can be located easier for possible crew rescue
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers have confirmed the impact trajectory of DUH-402(C), which entered our SOI earlier today. Coming down over the major shipping route between Umbarg and Sheltered Rock means maritime vessels will hold outside this area to 100km until any danger has passed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Engineer Simon has confirmed the engine throttle cables broke - likely they were already weakened from water corroding them inside the lines and the long flight at high altitude freezing them didn't help. Deuce will get a full cabling replacement & better sealing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
full stop! Great landing by Val, a bit hard on the touchdown since the aircraft slowed too much and fell from a stall but it settled into the turf and rolled out fine. Crew is deplaning to hitch a ride back to KSC while a tug heads out to get the Deuce back into the HAB
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rolling out onto base leg, one more turn to line up with the runway for short final. Flight crew is calm & in control. Once Val touches down & uses reverse thrust to slow further, Jeb will shut down the engines so wheel brakes can bring the aircraft to a stop
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
emergency vehicles are on their way out to the runway as Val is coming around left-pattern onto crosswind leg, keeping her speed up so the aircraft doesn't surprise her but managing her approach rate well with the help of Jeb on the thrust reversers
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Val is continuing her descent and approach for pattern entry over KSC while Jeb handles toggling the thrust reversers on her command to get a feel for how the aircraft responds since they are not usually engaged when traveling at flight speeds
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb has declared an emergency - Val pulled back throttle once she felt it give but about 1/3 back from full power the levers fell back to idle however engines are still running at around 68% power. With control cables broken, landing will be tricky
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Scientist Cheranne has told Jeb they have collected enough data, Val has them back on course for KSC and given they are still at nearly 8km the crew will be preparing for descent shortly. Throttle is stuck, likely frozen control cables but should thaw out as they descend
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Deuce is just starting to circle around and then pass over the volcano, seen here off in the distance earlier from over the desert. Keologists think it was extinct before the Sea Ring crater impact, which may have brought magma back to make it now dormant
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
climbing through 5.5km the belly cam catches some stunning cloud rolls coming up towards the peaks of the mountains west of KSC, which have strong updrafts and winds which the new sensors will be put to the test monitoring along with temp, press, etc
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb has requested taxi & takeoff clearance, which have been granted. The runway is still not completely clear of the rocket sled track so they will be departing from and returning to the turf runway. Winds are off the water so the aircraft is headed out to Rwy09 for departure
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a ground crew member atop the power unit that supplies the Deuce with electricity until the engines are started, which is coming up soon, takes a photo into the cabin as the flight crew work through preflight, still aiming for an on-time departure
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
weather has cooperated today for a Deuce flight with Cdr Val & Cpt Jeb, who will eventually seek out rough & stormy weather but for now prefer milder conditions to test the aircraft's performance with the new under-wing atmospheric sensor pods. Wheels up @ ~20:45 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ahead of the first aircraft mission tomorrow in months, the KSC groundskeep crew have performed needed maintenance on the turf runways, which not only need their grass regularly trimmed but making sure the soil is compact & tidal floods haven't left behind dangerous debris
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Re: lack of violent protests
We see it as a good sign whatever support the extremists have is in the minority
We see it as a good sign whatever support the extremists have is in the minority
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although the rocket sled track is still being dismantled for shipping to the Kongo, enough runway is clear for the Dhumla to complete ground trials ahead of flight later this week, under command of a C7 flight crew that arrived over the weekend from Kravass
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today was our first air raid evacuation drill here at KSC, sadly this is the new normal we live in. R&D Head Wernher complained to @DKerman_KSA that it ruined one of his experiments in progress. Drew replied by reminding him that it was a *scheduled* drill
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
despite the cooperation of religious leaders and the fact that no protests have turned violent in the days since the attack, the government continues to refuse access to the Monolith until the entire KSC is ready to be opened to the general public again
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with kerbed missions postponed until the launch pad is repaired, the entire astronaut crew is taking time to go back to basics and ensure all their fundamental skills are sound, which includes what they all hate most - being cooped up in a classroom most of the time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've been seeing various news reports questioning the fact that only a single crew member was found in the Deuce wreckage. While the Deuce is a multi-crew aircraft it can in fact be flown by a single kerb. The advantages of multi-crew in safety is why most aren't flown that way
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our astronaut crew is each spending the weekend at a cavern (Sheltered Rock, Ockr, Kravass, Umbarg) participating in science outreach programs to show that we will not cower in fear of threats to our goal of space exploration. Still, we did send along security details
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
#OTD in 2017 we discovered bit.ly/_Alaba already in orbit around Kerbin. It has been through a record 27 Mun encounters so far and should be sticking around until at least early 2020 if predictions hold true. It has circled kerbin over 286 times
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
despite returning to operations next week public weekends at KSC will remain cancelled this weekend and moving forward until further notice while we work to establish new security protocols for visitors since at least 1 was in league with the attack (video capture)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we hear Jeb has been making overtures in an attempt to get to drive the Mobile Launch Platform. He once managed to finagle his way into the drivers seat of the Progeny carry vehicle but we doubt he'll ever get a chance to go behind the controls of the MLP - even w/o a rocket atop
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
unlike the Progeny Mk6 missions (not Mk7), which can be launched from the North Field, Ascension rockets require the launch pad and all future missions are on indefinite hold until we can fully assess the damage that was done to the pad and service structures
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Kerbal Sounding Project launches have all been rescheduled due to the construction delay from evacuating KSC. The new launch dates are
#1 - 11/13
#2 - 11/22
#3 - 12/10
#4 - 12/18
Times are available on the Ops Tracker
#1 - 11/13
#2 - 11/22
#3 - 12/10
#4 - 12/18
Times are available on the Ops Tracker
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the radome has been completed on the tall hills west of KSC and will be hooked up to the Tracking Station by tomorrow, which means we can return to KSC next week! Due to security, it's tough working remotely for engineering and R&D teams w/o full file access
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Dr. Murstap was moved to the outpatient ward today & is expected to be discharged over the weekend. His vision has improved but he will require corrective optics. A formal inquiry into his actions will be convened next month to determine if he is to continue to lead the project
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the decision has been made to move the rocket sled testing out to the Kongo River Research Base so an even longer track can be built and also handle larger test vehicles. Murstap has undergone surgical procedures for his eyes and maintains he is still only on "medical leave"
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN Alert! OFU-009(A) has been discovered on a trajectory that will graze through our atmosphere, coming 50-60km above the surface. We'll know more precisely after it enters our SOI on 11/14. Chances of an aerocapture are better than VNQ-400(D), but still unsure
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
data from the remote observatories has been collected and the full transit of Moho has been plotted. Each position was taken at 1 hour intervals. Tho it looks evenly spaced, Moho was traveling slightly faster at the end. The next one will not be until a year from now in 2020
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
R&D Head Wernher von Kerman has presented a new instrument suite to the Progenitor team, suitable for launch on a future Progeny Mk7 now that the payload section can point & hold orientation. Ascension is also interested in larger related instruments for an orbital payload
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although the record high Gs sustained by Cdr Val on her last mission were not harmful, they were quite uncomfortable and could be more tolerant with training. A centrifuge is being planned for construction either on the KSC R&D campus or near our HQ underground in Umbarg
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after a 5h44m40s transit, Moho has moved off the Kerbolar disc as visible from KSC. Observation stations setup ahead of time around Kerbin have captured the entire transit. The Kerbal Astronomical Society will release a full composite later this week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSC remains shut down but a team is onsite this week collecting debris from the launch pad so the ASA can begin to determine the origins of the aircraft based on the parts that are recovered. A lot remains intact, including the cabin & body of the unidentified pilot
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the sun is up over KSC, so we have a great view of the Moho transit, which began when its edge touched the Kerbolar disc an hour ago. We didn't mark it, but trust us it's there and not just a dust grain on your monitor. Look closely! (north is to the left)
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:
β’ 1.25m TVC vacuum engine
β’ More powerful 1.25m lifter engine
β’ Actuating guidance fins
β’ Multi-segment (reusable?) SRBs
Current flight target mid-2020
β’ 1.25m TVC vacuum engine
β’ More powerful 1.25m lifter engine
β’ Actuating guidance fins
β’ Multi-segment (reusable?) SRBs
Current flight target mid-2020
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new external sensors from R&D were being installed under the wings of the Deuce last week. Lead Engineer Simon plans to finish up once KSC is re-opened and allow the Genesis program to pioneer new territory in weather analysis by flying through storm systems
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
funeral services have begun this weekend and will continue throughout the week for the pad workers that perished in the fire last week. Cpt Jeb has committed himself to attending as many as he can to personally offer his condolences as the sole survivor
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all of our astronaut crew have been cleared in their psychiatric evaluations, although Bob says he really didn't need more to be anxious about. Jeb told him not to worry, he's not about to let him rotate into command next mission and wants another shot at space soon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we would define this as a slippery slope and are currently not considering anything like this to be an option. Woe be the day we should change our minds
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
weβre not sure yet how we would retaliate given how fortfied theyβve already shown themselves to be (recall they almost shot down an airship). While we figure out our options we are taking greater security measures to prevent or at least mitigate any future attack attemps
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
.@mrtagnan there's no radar coverage until the tracking vessel comes on station later in the count. We've only cared about range issues for a rocket going up & hitting something, not the other way around. They chose their window of attack wisely. This is why we are now building our own radar station
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
video was adjusted for brightness & contrast but it all still happens pretty fast - aircraft comes gliding in from the left @ upwards of 100m/s & Jeb's capsule goes flying off to the right (you can make out the LES motors firing)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have released our own video of the Deuce that flew into the Ascension Mk1. Monitoring cameras were activated once fueling operations began. It came in lights off & engines off - there was no warning & only the automated LES saved Jeb's life
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
TL;DR (it is a lot to take in) - our current stance is to work to determine all the details of how this attack was carried out and put in place measures to prevent future attempts. We are not backing down nor is any action yet able to be taken against those responsible
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
TL;DR - a sect of violent Monolithic followers remains set against our space-bound ambitions even after being secretly banished to the other side of the planet by religious leaders, where they happened upon a large unknown population of kerbs receptive to "salvation"
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
while a lot of work remains in the investigation, all parties involved feel a point has been reached where we can release a statement not only on the events of this past week but the events of the past few years that led up to this brazen attack: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9965
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
planes are no longer grounded after the Air Safety Administration completed its inventory & confirms there are no missing aircraft that have been produced and registered, except for those already lost. A No-Fly Zone currently exists around KSC to 20km in all directions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our recovery vessel MSV Aldeny was recently fitted with advanced radar capabilities to serve as tracking & recovery for the upcoming Mk6 launches and has parked off our south shore to keep watch on the skies until a proper ground facility can finish construction next week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're still trying to wrap our heads around what happened yesterday and have been greatly comforted from the support shown by the public. We are also providing grief counselors to any KSA staff that require them. Our astronaut crew will all receive mandatory psych evals
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a team of volunteers returned to KSC to recover the capsule and lock it up in the VAB. They report substantial damage to the launch pad from the fire and although the service structures are still standing the blast has likely rendered them inoperable
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
investigation work continues but one thing we can do now is recognize the brave kerbals that raced towards the launchpad fire to attempt a rescue of any survivors. Sadly, there were none and the 12 workers still on the pad is our greatest loss of life during a mission to date
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
developments from yesterday have led to the government rounding up & deporting Monolithic followers from Umbarg. All went peacefully. KSC & the Support Village will remain empty until new security measures can be put into place, hopefully by next week. KSA HQ remains operational
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our founder and Operations Director @DKerman_KSA has already gone on record via a short interview with KNN saying "we will not in any way be deterred by such a heinous action as occurred today and we shall cooperate fully with a joint investigation"
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
due to the KNN broadcast from earlier today we are unable to release a full statement as planned now that the investigation into today's events is no longer under our sole jurisdiction. We have agreed to work jointly with government and religious leaders
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have no comment on the video recently broadcasted by KNN except to say Jeb is indeed alive & safe, we are aware that this was a targeted attack using a Deuce aircraft and are continuing with our own internal investigation
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Further details on what exactly happened at KSC will be released later today once a review is conducted by KSA management at our corporate HQ here in Umbarg. While he's understandably frustrated to not be going to space today, Captain Jeb is also thankful to be alive
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSC and all surrounding areas have been completely evacuated with no further injuries or loss of life. An observation team left at the tunnel entrance reports the launchpad fire is burning down and not spreading. No other surface activity is reported in the area
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb was extracted from the capsule with no injuries & sent off with the evacuation. Rescue operations at the launch pad have also ceased, sadly no survivors were found. The fire that has grown since the initial explosion as remaining fuel ignited will be left to burn out
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are purposefully withholding details at this time as a security measure and *will not* be answering any questions until we are able to make a complete and formal statement. All staff & visitors are receiving evacuation instructions & are expected to comply
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
additionally a full evacuation of KSC, the neighboring Support Village and even camped out Monolith pilgrims has been ordered. All but staff needed for the pad rescue operation and Cpt Jeb's recovery will be departing immediately to Umbarg via the access tunnel
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have declared an emergency at KSC after the rocket exploded on the launch pad a few minutes ago. The LES tower has successfully carried Jeb away and he is currently descending under chute ~800m away. Right now our focus is on rescuing any pad workers that may have survived
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h40m] the rocket's tanks are topped off & pad crew is unhooking the tanker truck to begin clearing the pad for launch. Pre-flight operations continue, with Monolith chill down apparently successful again as no weather alerts have been issued
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h55m] Launch Control have confirmed pad workers have configured the rocket for tanking operations and given the GO to begin onloading 7t of liquid propellants while Jeb has also confirmed arming of the Launch Escape System
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb & Bill were reportedly deep into a discussion on the possibility of attaching rockets to drag racing cars as mounting wrapped up and Bill had to pull out his intercom to return to Launch Control and begin setting up his console for preflight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Flight Director Lanalye had a quick consultation with Lead Engineer Simon about Jeb walking out onto the tank and was assured there is no danger as a result. She still formally complained to Ops Dir Drew who just sighed & threw out his arms like "what're we gonna do?" Jeb is Jeb
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h45m] despite the pad crew's objections, Jeb refused to come down until his photo was taken. The hatch has since been opened and Jeb is now clambering aboard with assistance from the pad workers & Specialist Bill, who will be running CapCom today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5h] the countdown has officially begun! Jeb has exited the Astronaut Complex and boarded the crew shuttle for the launch pad, leaving Bob in the ready room in case he is needed at any point prior to launch. Expect updates from us at these major milestones in the count
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob & Jeb are suiting themselves up - they fly in the same pressure suits worn for atmospheric missions because even with a capsule pressure loss they won't be in space long enough to lose suit integrity. They only really need to help each other with their helmets
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ahead of 2nd sunrise, launch crews are on their way to the pad to get the rocket unmounted and lowered for Captain Jeb to climb aboard later in the day cycle. Both he and Bob are already awake and getting ready for their choice breakfast meals prior to suiting up
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-4)
10/22
#2π 07:57:07 π11:47:39
#3π 13:57:58 !!ππ¨βπ!! π17:48:30
#4π 19:58:49 π23:49:21
10/23
#1π 01:59:40 π05:50:12
@ KSC (UTC-4)
10/22
#2π 07:57:07 π11:47:39
#3π 13:57:58 !!ππ¨βπ!! π17:48:30
#4π 19:58:49 π23:49:21
10/23
#1π 01:59:40 π05:50:12
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all launch readiness reports have been reviewed and signed off on by Operations Director @DKerman_KSA which means we are GO for launch attempt tomorrow! Jeb says he probably won't sleep much. Bob agrees, but not for the same reasons. Prelaunch ops kick off @ 13:25 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
doctors report that Murstap's vision is improving and he will likely only require minor corrective surgery to restore his full sight. His other injuries continue to heal as well & he should be discharged next week. He remains committed to regaining leadership of the sled project
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
did you know we host Star Parties? We provide telescopes for use and have both professional and amateur astronomers on hand to help guide you through the skies. If you can't make it to KSC, there's a good chance you can find one near you nightsky.jpl.nasa.gov/event-list.cfm
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
both of our crew in quarantine remain healthy. Jeb says he wishes the mission was tomorrow - he's tired of doctors poking him. Bob admits he's still working through some minor anxiety issues and is hoping Jeb doesn't suddenly come down with an illness
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although they have access to a phone line to talk, Val & Bob are instead playing a game of pictograms through his window. Jeb says it's disgustingly cute & is glad they don't have adjacent rooms so he wasn't asked to join. Bob says he wouldn't have asked anyways
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have another solidly-built rocket ready for rollout next week! Great job to Lead Engineer Simon and his team in the VAB, who worked tirelessly to get the lift stage ready on short notice when we flipped around the launch schedule
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the future of the rocket sled program has been cast into doubt - Murstap has already been removed from the project (although he insists it would be such anyways due to his injuries & it's not permanent) & the team is reviewing data to see if more testing is warranted
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
mission training is complete, Captain Jeb & Specialist Bob are now in quarantine in the Astronaut Complex until launch day, allowing for them to rest after their vigorous training schedule and remain under close medical observation
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
PVT-846(B) has just entered our SOI and astronomers have already confirmed its impact trajectory, which will put it almost smack dab in the middle of the Big Nothing - the mariner name for the largest expanse of empty sea. No threat to surface operations expected
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
impact speeds would likely still be too high however, beyond the tolerance of the capsule to withstand unless it were built to do so, which would add too much mass. Instead we are looking into a slightly more powerful LES tower - still adds more mass but not as much
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the procedure would be to drop the heat shield & vent all remaining cold gas to reduce mass. Next the flotation device would be deployed to create more drag (tho it could possibly rip apart). Finally the push motors would be fired just before impact
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with enough data from re-entries of the Mk1 capsule, Ascension engineers have been able to model the possibility of using the 4 LES push motors as a last-ditch attempt at survivable recovery should the chutes completely malfunction. Result: probably not
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
continuing investigation into the last rocket sled run has found several safety systems both on the track & the sled were disabled. When confronted with this discovery Dr. Murstap admitted he did it, saying he wasn't going to let the oversight committee curtail his experiment
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although the western MSV was able to visually track the fireball before it disappeared over the horizon, all the best data is now at the bottom of the ocean. Apparently some concerns were raised over the proximity of the monitoring vessel but not enough it seems
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
2 of the 3 observation boats have sailed back into port in Umbarg and report that megaton VNQ-400(D) exploded low in the atmosphere - both could hear the explosion. The shockwave was so intense in fact no trace of the unkerbed monitoring vessel was found. It must have sunk
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Murstap remains under medical observation, will not require surgery just plenty of rest to heal - although doctors remain unsure about his lack of eyesight, caused by retinal bleeding that could lead to retinal detachment. We wish him a speedy recovery!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VNQ-400(D) should be screaming through the atmosphere now at speeds in excess of 3km/s - observation vessels moved into position yesterday but are out of comms range - we should have a report later today on what happened
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
PSA: VNQ-400(D) will NOT present any sort of danger to kerbs working on the surface, even if it impacts or explodes during its pass through the atmosphere. You do not need to buy an Asteroid Survival Kit. These are scams! The air quality will remain just fine
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here's a look at Murstap's run from the middle of the track, at which point he was traveling nearly 200m/s. He remains in the medical center listed as stable but under observation with vision loss, 2 broken ribs, strained neck, minor head trauma and some internal bruising
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
once again Jeb comes out victorious in number of successful sim runs during training, which is wrapping up this week. Jeb says Bob thinks too much when things start to go sideways (sometimes literally) whereas he just "does what needs to be done"
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Murstap has been extracted from the capsule, he is alive and responsive but seems disoriented, is having trouble breathing and claims he cannot see. He is being rushed over to the medical center in the Support Village for a full examination
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
emergency vehicles have rushed to the track end after Murstap was unresponsive following the rapid deceleration - so much so that monitoring instruments actually failed to record just how extreme it was. FD Lanalye has ordered a full diagnostic
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all systems GO for SRB ignition in 5 minutes, Murstap will also be testing a new restraint harness design on this run and hopes to reach in excess of 34Gs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Dr. Murstap has been loaded up into the capsule for his final run, which should see him sustain the highest amount of Gees so far. Final prep underway in Launch Control as FD Lanalye oversees the sled team controllers. Ignition set for 18:40 UTC
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
reports from a recent surface expedition claim to have found the crash site of the missing Deuce aircraft - or at least, evidence of a crash site because the plane itself has still not been found. The news will report anything these days it seems, and this is still a hot story
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN has confirmed VNQ-400(D)'s trajectory after it entered our SOI earlier today. It will pass through our atmosphere to a depth of 9.3km and maritime vessels will be positioned along its path to observe & report
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
so it's not actually holding the capsule down on its own very much. If it fails to release automatically and the manual release also fails, the LES push motors have enough force to yank the capsule free once the rocket is in space
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the decoupler's main job is actually to hold the capsule away from the fuel tank during ascent - the force of it atop the tank alone would crush it. The decoupler has strong cross-braces that sit under the capsule & distribute stress to the tank sides, which are strongest
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb's Ascension Mk1 was integrated with its engine last week and will go vertical today in the VAB so the capsule can be lifted up, placed on top and load checks carried out on the decoupler and heat shield. It's always best to find problems before launching...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
however, "doesn't always happen" is really only applicable if you stick to one location on Kerbin's surface. Minmus is close enough that traveling farther north or south can bring it onto the kerbolar disc if a transit isn't visible from another latitude
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
every 53 days, on opposite sides of the sun, Minmus' 6Β° inclined orbit crosses the kerbolar disc and offers the chance for Minmus to transit it. This doesn't always happen because it takes only 11 days for the orbit to cross the sun but 12.5 days for Minmus to orbit Kerbin
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the MLP is now parked in front of the VAB after a successful fit test at the launch pad. It will remain there until needed for the Mk2 in Dec, although additional driver training exercises will also be conducted between now & then. here's a look back at the 2-month assembly
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with Bob being even more of an intellectual than Val, Jeb has had trouble getting along with him during training. Jeb likes to call him "Bob the Brain". It's gotten so bad we've actually separated them, which still works fine overall since they aren't on mission together
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Mobile Launch Platform is on its way out to the launch pad to park as if it were carrying a rocket to hook up to the service towers and ensure that platform height is good, proper spacing between treads and towers, etc. It actually moves pretty fast unladen @ ~11m/s
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
two R&D lab technicians were admitted to the medical center at the Support Village today with severe chemical burns. Both with be okay, one will have slight scarring, and the record 504-day safety streak has been broken. It has now been 0 days without incident...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers have predicted Alaba's future orbital motion out to early 2020, checking for missed SOI detections. The largest change is radial movement - by encounter #35 its trajectory will be nearing Mun's SOI on the ascending node as well and encounters will become more frequent
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this week has mainly been water recovery exercises for Jeb and Bob just offshore from KSC. We don't need our actual recovery vessel MSV Aldeny, berthed at Sheltered Rock, because they aren't training to be hauled up in the capsule onto the deck as if everything went right
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are starting a student internship program in our R&D department! Lead Researcher Wernher von Kerman is always in need of new lab assistants - which of course couldn't have anything to do with his overbearing personality
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the final solid rocket motor has been integrated with the rocket sled and brought out to the track today to prepare for a run next week. Murstap is planning to go all-out but has been dealing with push-back from the project's oversight committee in regards to safety
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the unkerbed Mk1 that will be testing the new larger guidance fins next month will also carry another RTG test payload since the Mk7-A mission did not fully qualify the casing as planned. This will debut the enlarged 1.25m PLF (PayLoad Fairing) assembly as well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Monolith remains tame - putting out an EM field of only 50m, not raising up storms when chilled, not attempting crystal regrowth. It remains off limits to scientists and under control of the Monolithic followers, who continue to cooperate with KSC as needed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
images released from the Arekibo Radio Observatory show EFD-736(C) slowly tumbling at a rate of about 1 revolution every two minutes. All asteroids are spinning, some so fast astronomers suspect they could break apart, though none like that have yet been discovered
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although the Mobile Launch Platform was successfully fired up today, Lead Engineer Simon & his team were unable to get it rolling as planned. They have identified several problems that need to be fixed but remain confident they can have it out of the HAB this week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Asteroid Tracking Network has discovered asteroids crossing the orbits of every planet in the system, which means any of these could enter that planet's SOI and some do within the next few, dozen or hundreds of years. This is a rough breakdown as of today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's important to admit that we mostly *think* we know what we're doing when it comes to rocketry. We only *know* what we are doing when what we think we're doing actually *works* to within an acceptable margin of accuracy. We are mostly doing a lot of thinking these days
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with the installation of the SRB support stands the Mobile Launch Platform is practically complete! There are still some minor tasks to wrap up but it could be powered up and moved out of the HAB as early as tomorrow, reports Lead Engineer Simon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
what's different in the production MLP vs the original design? A second control cab was added to the opposite side of the platform so it can be driven forwards and backwards without having to turn around. Which it *can* do, but driving straight is easier
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers are still going over all the data they collected on Vieras and will fully analyze how its trajectory changes messed with their long-term predictions but in the meanwhile here's an overview of its orbital progression over 8 recorded encounters with Mun
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Specialist Bill, primary CapCom and Commander Valentina, his backup, have started their mission training with the Launch Control A team today. We place astronauts in these roles since they are best suited to quickly communicating complex instructions in a way they would also understand
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
EFD-736(C) has just entered our SOI, set for a close pass of just 0.30 Munar Distance next week before being slung back out into Kerbolar orbit. Arekibo plans to take observations of it and release some new radar images
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
and then there were two. bit.ly/_Tantalus has left the system, leaving only Alaba & Chikelu as our current known moonlets. Amateur astronomers have been helping hunt to see if there are any more currently in orbit we haven't spotted yet. None are known to be on their way
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
#ICYMI here is a real-time view of Vieras impacting Kerbin. It's easy to forget with the slow pace of current orbits displayed the Ops Tracker actually updates them all once per second! Vieras' legacy will remain in the lessons learned predicting large trajectory changes
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
by now Vieras has either impacted Kerbin's surface as a whole or broken up in the atmosphere and rained down in smaller pieces. There may be an expedition launched one day to find out - many possible impact locations in the southern hemisphere have yet to be investigated
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the mysterious disappearance of a Deuce back at the end of May has actually increased enrollment in ASA flight school - kerbs have realized more than ever just how big the surface world is & how much there is to explore, which airplanes can do well. Plus some are still searching
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
still, this was much less than the level of tolerance that was planned to be demonstrated so we still need a good result from the Kerbin I impact from orbit to fully certify the RTG casing as safe to actually carry radioactive material and power future orbital satellites
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
more good news for our future orbital missions, the RTG casing from last week's mission has been carefully inspected and does not show any more damage than expected from an impact at the speeds it endured, estimated to be at over 100m/s
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the lift stage for the Mk2 will begin its conversion to a Mk1 this week, simply by removing the decouplers that are meant to hold the solid rocket motors the Mk2 needs to help boost it off the pad. This will be the lifter for Captain Jeb's flight later this month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although the program was originally announced to have the budget to fly 6 missions, not enough submissions were eligible for actual deployment. Many were just plain not feasible or not possible within the constraints of the rocket. There certainly was not a lack of submissions!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
dates are scheduled for the Kerbal Sounding Project missions! There will be 4 launches, carrying 2 experiments each - all of which will have been built by students, our next gen space explorers. Dates:
#1 - 11/5
#2 - 11/14
#3 - 12/5
#4 - 12/17
More info on the Ops Tracker
#1 - 11/5
#2 - 11/14
#3 - 12/5
#4 - 12/17
More info on the Ops Tracker
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
update to bit.ly/Vieras has details on its impact trajectory, which has been confirmed for Oct 4th, the same day that Tantalus is scheduled to be ejected from the system. There is no hazard to surface operations
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the 60m dish will be built in late 2020/early 2021 once the North & South ATN/DSN complexes are complete and operational. The 18m dishes will be installed as needed to handle increasing orbital traffic and relieve the 27m dishes for deep space missions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
let's have a look at the various communication dishes in use (or planned to be) around Kerbin. When deep space missions come around, we plan to work out a way to combine our three 7m dishes for greater reception rather than just upgrade them to bigger sizes - initially anyways
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ascension team have announced a date for Captain Jebediah's mission - launching 10/22 @ 18:25 UTC! He and his backup Specialist Bob have already begun their mission training this week consisting so far of simulator runs and emergency capsule egress drills
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Mobile Launch Platform continues to work towards completion, with the main deck being finalized this week. Anyone notice something different not in the original design renders? Also, the Dhumla continues to be built towards completion next month as well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
theory is the fins failed to lock neutral when control was severed. This would have left them slightly angled with final control inputs, which then spun up and lifted the stage higher before they shredded. Also the big nose dragged the rocket back more than previous Mk6 ascents
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
during last week's mission, other than fears of the rocket coasting off prograde too far for the 3rd stage engine gimbal to correct, another heart-stopping moment was when the first stage nearly flew into the rocket upon decouple as controllers watched the tracking footage
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new orbital data for bit.ly/_Tantalus confirms its escape trajectory. The orbit is not hyperbolic, so you can still see it in the Ops Tracker and if you turn on SOIs you'll see where it exits. It will also show up if you plot out the trajectory on the surface map
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
by now Tantalus has entered Mun's SOI for its 1st recorded pass since discovery late last year. After passing as close as 1.8Mm and exiting 2h58m from now it will likely be on an escape trajectory back into Kerbolar orbit. ATN will have an update tomorrow, Arekibo is tracking
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
something else the Progeny Mk7-A tested for Ascension Mk2 on its last flight was steering limits on the guidance fins. Until the Mk2 drops boosters, the fins can't actuate too far without hitting the decouplers! github.com/KSAMissionCtrlβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good news: looking closely through the orbital data propagated forward from May's observations we can see this event, the automated algorithm just didn't pick it up. So only a bug that needs fixing, not an error in our understanding of orbital mechanics *phew*
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
updated orbital data has been posted for bit.ly/_Alaba - thankfully despite earlier confidence in predictions astronomers still kept a close eye on it and saw it dip into Mun's SOI yesterday. How this was missed in May's 5-encounter prediction has been investigated
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN alert! VNQ-400(D), discovered today, is on a trajectory to dip down into our atmosphere as low as just 4-5km next month. We will have a better idea of its perikee when it enters our SOI on October 14th. Nobody panic, event should be contained to the southern hemisphere
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
mission telemetry from yesterday's flight up to the point of signal loss is now available for perusal: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d⦠here too is another launch photo from one of the public viewing areas, the one next to Launch Control
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
even without the recovery of the RTG casing, the mission still proved the Ospray engine capable of controlling the rocket via thrust vectoring and the guidance fins also gave engineers more data for the larger versions that will go on the Ascension Mk1 & Mk2
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
β¨πKERZZAHH!πβ¨ airship is on its way back to Sheltered Rock with the RTG casing! Although it still needs to be closely inspected to see if it performed as designed, the ability for engineers to do this was the goal and therefore marks this mission as a success
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
radio beacon in RTG casing only good to ~2km so they have to get close and have a large area to search. One upside tho is not searching the mountains as planned, which could have taken days due to commonly poor weather making airship travel through there hazardous
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've lost contact with the main payload section over the horizon and although it likely landed in water the impact force would have still damaged all components beyond repair. We are only aiming to recover the RTG casing intact later today for mission success
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
while the main payload section is still plummeting through the atmosphere right now, the RTG continues to coast through space and will fall back to Kerbin ~20km further downrange. The airship from Sheltered Rock has already left its berth and is heading for the area
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after losing the extra mass, the reaction wheels required less power and were much better at being able to point & hold. Several orientation commands were sent before SAS was deactivated prior to atmospheric re-entry, which will begin seconds from now
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
controllers have determined that with the mass of the fuel tanks & engine still attached, the reaction wheels are drawing power faster than the batteries can discharge. This was anticipated though & a decoupler can separate the payload element
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are about to pass through apokee & the SAS system is still trying to use the reaction wheels to orient & hold the rocket facing radial out (pointing away from Kerbin), which it was commanded to do almost half a minute ago but keeps over-correcting
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
reaction wheel system was successfully activated and used, after some trouble, to maintain prograde orientation. The RTG was then shot off via a decoupler to ensure it makes it over land. Had the rocket followed the planned profile, RTG would have remained attached
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ascent complete & the rocket is coasting up to just 117km apokee, so controllers are scrambling to ensure mission objectives are met within the much shorter time than planned - rocket will re-enter in only ~4min instead of closer to 9. Much more drag than anticipated in modeling!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a cheer went up through Launch Control as the 3rd stage ignited & held the rocket steady! 2nd stage was kept after MECO-2 to continue use of fins but almost dragged the rocket too far off prograde as it slowed down. High AoA warnings was a tense moment. GO PROGENY!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket is off course but that was expected given how little we know about its flight characteristics, something we hope to improve with this flight. 1st stage booster nearly contacted the rocket after separation but thankfully missed. 2nd stage boost underway & nominal
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ignition and LIFT OFF!! 3.6Gs of force pushes the rocket clear of the VAB's shadow as it tips over, clearing the towers and aiming downrange along a heading of 45.5Β°. 35s from now will see MECO-1 and stage separation followed by a coast phase up to 15km before MES-2
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] weather is GO! All stations are GO! A small cheer can be heard from the crowd outside as controllers inch a little closer to their consoles in anticipation. Ops Director @DKerman_KSA has granted launch permission - π GO PROGENY!! π Standing by for Terminal Count
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all stations quiet except for the weather desk, as meteorologists analyze the upper-atmospheric data that started coming in about 10 minutes ago. Surface winds have just gone green, we just have to keep fingers crossed the air high above has calmed down some as well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] RSO has confirmed pad clear, airspace clear, waters clear and closed the range. Rocket is now ARMED, Flight Termination System ACTIVE. All visitors should be returning to viewing locations
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] surface winds are yellow but continue to trend downwards and we have a GO to continue the countdown. All launch support crew remained on stand-by without need for relief and are picking up right where we left off earlier in the day cycle
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
latest weather report shows wind speeds are trending downwards! if it continues we should have a GO to resume countdown @ 19:20 UTC. In the meanwhile, mess hall behind the Astronaut Complex is open to all visitors still waiting around, as well as the static displays
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
because we don't care if the payload lands at night, the launch window is open to 30min prior to sunset - we want some daylight remaining for visual tracking as this rocket design is still new & post-flight analysis will rely heavily on video review of ascent
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
weather desk confirms upper atmosphere is also too disturbed for safe ascent conditions. Launch team is waiting for the meteorologists to further analyze data & pull in updated regional reports to see if we have a chance of launching later this day cycle
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[HOLD] although rehearsal went well and everything is resetting for the actual launch, weather conditions have not improved as expected and surface winds remain in the red. We will stand by @ L-30min for data from the weather balloon on upper atmosphere conditions in ~20min
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h35m] rocket and launch pad have both been configured for tanking and the GO has been given to begin onload of liquid propellants to the third stage through the service tower boom, fed from a small fuel truck hooked up to the base
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the goals of the original Mk7-A mission still apply as well - once in space the reaction wheel system will be activated to attempt to reorient the final stage. If it is too much mass, the payload element can be decoupled from the fuel tanks
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the payload is an RTG test article, which will be crashed into the mountains so it has less opportunity to slow down before impact. We have to ensure casing can survive an uncontrolled re-entry as designed. It contains the radio & internal batt power to be located afterwards
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h40m] Flight Director Lanalye has assembled her B team for their final mission brief. The Mk7-A has been modified from original spec to remove the chute and instead carry an additional payload within a new fairing shell that we plan to also use on Ascension rockets
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-4)
9/26
#2π10:19:23
#3π 12:29:45 !!π!! π16:20:14
#4π 18:30:36 π22:21:05
9/27
#1π 00:31:27 π04:21:56
#2π 06:32:18
@ KSC (UTC-4)
9/26
#2π10:19:23
#3π 12:29:45 !!π!! π16:20:14
#4π 18:30:36 π22:21:05
9/27
#1π 00:31:27 π04:21:56
#2π 06:32:18
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it took a while but we finally put together a video for the Ascension Mk1 using footage & images from Cdr Val's flight - even managed to store a bit more video during ascent finally. Sound on! Enjoy, and just imagine the Mk2... youtube.com/watch?v=ZukOY_β¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Engineer Simon has reported the Progeny Mk7-A successfully passed its close out checklist and has been loaded up onto the carry vehicle for rollout tomorrow. Progenitor team also finished triple-checking the ascent profile in LVD & gave their approval
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've kept Tedman listed as Injured ever since the crash and he's finally made the request to have his status changed to Retired. Sad as we are to see him "officially" go, we recognize this is an important step on his road to healing & continue to wish him all the best
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
vertical stacking was completed today for this week's Progeny Mk7-A. Everything fits, seen here with the 3rd stage payload element being mounted on the fuel tanks to stand 10.2m tall. the main supports have since been removed to check all load-bearing elements
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
complete ascent profile for last week's flight. So close! The large deviation near 45Β° was due to an overly-conservative guidance setting to level off the rocket. Deviation at end was an oversight, guidance unlock at MECO as original plan was to burn out of atmosphere
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
primary crew Cpt Jeb and his backup Spc Bob have begun basic mission prep this week with the Ascension team, which will outline objectives while reviewing and analyzing data from the previous mission. This will culminate in a launch date after the flight report releases
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although her parade isn't as big as Bill's was in the current capital Sheltered Rock, the welcome Val is getting at Kravass is much more personal being it's her home cavern. The local government will be awarding her a keystone to the city for her many accomplishments
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
#OTD in 2016, right at this moment, our first ever rocket was let off the rail and flew successfully to just over 3km. Unfortunately it landed too hard and all onboard data was lost so we can't recreate the ascent in the Ops Tracker. At least it didn't just explode!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today is the anniversary of our very first rocket launch! All visitors will get a chance to assemble their own model rockets to send up off the KSC lawn, with the smaller kerblings getting to launch water rockets and stomp (air) rockets
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a final photo from Commnder Val's mission, after she was strapped back down. Prior to re-entry she had to roll the capsule "up" so her bottom was towards Kerbin. This left her with a view out into the cosmos. The Great Expanse - we'll get there someday...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it used to be that our crew would watch rockets climb into the sky and only dream of one day heading up there themselves. The dream has become reality. The time is now, and a whole new generation of explorers are right on their heels. How exciting!!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this incident planted the seed of an idea that would grow for several years under the care of Dr. Murstap Kerman to become the rocket sled test program currently underway here at KSC to explore the limits of kerbal physiology
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
#OTD in 2017 Cpt Jeb unintentionally proved a kerbal could withstand 24Gs of momentary force without serious injury when the Deuce dove into the waters just offshore during an early test flight. We are a hardy folk! kerbalspace.agency/?p=5332
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
have a look at the first 50 rockets we launched since operations began in late 2016. Some are just mounted but all are individual rockets at the start of their missions. Some exploded - but of course that is to be expected at times. Here's to 50 more! π₯
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
basic reason is better guidance comes with less fin angle, but more fin angle is needed to fly the planned orbital trajectory so Ascension will wait to get better data on Progenitor's steerable fins after this month's launch, then scale them up for the Mk2
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after this past week's mission, the Ascension team leads had a two-hour meeting and brought their concerns to Operations Director @DKerman_KSA, who made the decision that we are going to bump the Mk2 flight to December & move Jeb's Mk1 up to late October
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Support Village airship tether is now occupied by another cargo carrier, this time bringing us supplies along with the capsule and Commander Val, who won't be sticking around long as she has media engagements this weekend in Umbarg & Kravass
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
cargo airship just finished unloading and the final ferry of new Dhumla parts is on its way to the HAB for assembly. This is the last time we'll build it here, since C7 is obligated to do so for the remainder of 2019. 2020 onward will be at KRG (Kongo) or the new KRA (Kravass)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Val's last photo before she had to leave the window and strap in for re-entry as the capsule passed down below 200km. If you look closely at the bay that is cut off by cloud cover, over the water is the lift stage way off in the distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
things are known to be stormy north and south of the equator and this massive system (two systems colliding??) to the north of Sheltered Rock, seen from 250km, certainly gives everyone a new perspective on the scope of these weather events
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the current record holder, if observations after 1yr are accurate, has an eccentricity of 0.000000000000569 which equates to less than a meter's difference between apkelion and perikelion. Of course, it could be unseated by other discoveries that haven't yet been observed as long
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
once she was unstrapped, Commander Val could get a better view out her window, seen here looking along her direction of travel past Sheltered Rock and Ockr. Minmus is rising over the horizon and the capsule is passing through 160km on its way to apokee
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Murstap did suffer some minor injuries including severe bruising from the straps and a broken wrist due to allowing his hand to slide off the rest during the boost and thus leaving it "unsecured" during deceleration. He says he's still upping the Gs for his final run though
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Dr. Murstap once again felt the need for speed and was sent rocketing (literally!) down the track in his rocket sled, achieving similar speeds to his first run but this time coming to a halt over a much shorter distance, placing as much as 26Gs of force on his body
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
having one UTV will help with operations around KSC but a minimum of 3 are needed for KerBalloon crews to venture out into the wilderness. Until CFO Mortimer authorizes purchase of at least 2 more, KB program will see smaller profit margins chartering airships to get around
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Specialist Bill has been working with KerBalloon mechanics on the Utility Task Vehicles involved in last week's accident & reports they can salvage one with parts from the other two, whose frames are too badly wrecked
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
HMZ-448(C) is now also in the system, following closely the trajectory of HMZ-748(C) - so close that they've purposely received similar designations and are considered by astronomers to be a pair, possibly a Class-E asteroid that has split in two. A first, if confirmed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Asteroid Tracking Network dispatch reports that from recent observations astronomers remain confident in the trajectory of bit.ly/_Tantalus, which is likely now on its last orbit around Kerbin before encountering Mun on 9/30 and exiting the system in early October
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
HMZ-748(C) has just entered our gravitational influence for a skim through the outer system, coming no closer than 5.78 Munar Distance - and it's not alone. Another Class-C asteroid is right behind it on a similar trajectory & we should have another ATN notice in ~4hrs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
work on the Mobile Launch Platform has moved forward in the HAB, with the engines finally installed along with the treads that will carry it across the ground. Next up will be the command cab and the remainder of the main deck, which needs more rails, ground access and lighting
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
one cool bit that may not be immediately obvious from the flight telemetry is check out the G readout while in space. Yup, you can see Val moving the capsule around. Each thruster only generates 0.02kN of force
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
initial telemetry data review has also clinched Val the new bit.ly/KSARecords for time in space at 11m2s while also claiming the new record for a kerbal's height over Kerbin at 251.907km. Jeb, obviously, is keen to break these on his flight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the complete telemetry data for Val's flight is now available: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d⦠we've also got her pictures and will be going through them as part of the flight analysis. Here is one just after lift stage separation, looking back towards KSC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Aldeny has been docked and crew offloaded in Sheltered Rock. Val will remain there for medical checkups and return with the capsule on a supply airship Friday. Jeb is stoked to hear that his flight for early November has been confirmed, exact date TBD
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
arriving just after sunset, capsule was located, hooked & pulled aboard MSV Aldeny. One of the deck crew thought it gallantrous to pick Val up out of the capsule - yea he won't ever try something like that again, suffice to say. Aldeny should arrive at Sheltered Rock early tmrw
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
at last the recovery vessel was in visual range of the capsule when it deployed full canopy! Photo taken through the eyepiece of the high powered scope, bumped a bit. Attempting to re-center lost tracking and the capsule fell below the horizon. Still, not bad!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
as much as our crew seem to desire a swim after the mission, procedure dictates they stay put until Aldeny hauls the capsule up the ramp onto their deck. Ending up in the water is only in case of an emergency, and their suits can pressurize to keep them afloat
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
β¨KERZZAH!!!β¨ Mission success, with Val back on the surface safe & sound! MSV Aldeny is about 45min away making best speed to the landing site. Everyone busy congratulating each other in the control room. Val says she wants to get out, float & feel weightless again
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
contact! Radio blackout lasted 33s and Val came back "read you loud & clear!" on the first attempt. We have confirmation of LES jettison and initial chute deployment. Updated telemetry coming in shows Val only had to sustain +10G (max 11.4) for 6 seconds
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
tense moments in mission control as static crackles through the comm speakers from ionized air blocking radio transmission as the capsule plunges through the atmosphere in excess of 1.9km/s, heating the external surface to over 1,000Β°F (>550Β°C). Bob will call out for Val soon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
secured back in her seat, Val is proceeding through the checklist for re-entry. SAS guidance enabled to hold retrograde, she has rolled the capsule "up". LES jettison armed, chutes armed - controllers deemed separation distance good from lift stage. Atmo in <2min!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
getting the capsule reoriented Val was still able to barely spot the lift stage out the window. Controllers are debating whether she should make additional maneuvers to put some more distance between the two craft - a collision on re-entry would be catastrophic
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after passing through 251.907km apokee, only 47km lower than planned, Val is reluctantly leaving the window to strap back in and begin preparing for re-entry. New trajectory has been plotted and MSV Aldney is already on the move towards the new recovery zone ~35km west of target
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Val has unstrapped to get a better view out the window. Not really much room to float around inside the cramped capsule but you can still float. Like Bill, she reports no negative effects on her breathing, vision, swallowing, etc. Flight Surgeon reports her vitals are nominal
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with just over 4min to apokee, Val will spend more time in space on her way up than Bill did his entire flight! She currently has the capsule under manual control and is spinning about to take in the sights through the window, camera at the ready
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MECO was 3km short of planned altitude but overall an extremely nominal ascent! Capsule is adrift after separation & Val confirms guidance is released properly and she has full control of both the RCS and SAS systems
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
some turbulence passing through the upper atmo bumped Val around a bit but overall pitch & heading remained nominal. Control authority remains good as rocket is approaching 40km and Val is prepping for "the kick" as the engine will throttle up to full w/ 3.6Gs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket has passed thru MaxQ & is supersonic, guidance is looking the best we've ever seen this early in the ascent - nominal pitch over, nominal heading. Engine parameters nominal. Val is dutifully reading out her instruments to ensure we're getting good data
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ignition sequence was good - LIFT OFF of the 9th Ascension Mk1, carrying Commander Valentina skyward to become the second kerbal in space!! Rocket will throttle up as it clears the towers, maintaining 1.65 TWR as it rolls onto 54Β° heading and begins to pitch over downrange
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-1m] live telemetry will be loading shortly - ops.kerbalspace.agency Val is ready, eyes locked on her panel to call out readings during ascent. Final GO/NO GO at T-30 before automated launch sequence begins. Hang on Val! Get ready.... get set....
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Flight Surgeon reports Val is finally showing an elevated heart rate, but at this stage that is considered normal and anything else would have been cause for a bit of concern - anyone who is not at least a little afraid generally tends to make bad decisions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] Final readiness polls complete: Wx: GO; Range: GO; Flight: GO; Tracking Station: GO; Downrange Tracking: GO; Ops Director @DKerman_KSA: Launch permission granted! πGO ASCENSIONπ FTS power internal, service tower boom unlocked for retraction, AFCS rdy for terminal count
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
flight controllers are all taking one last look through their data getting ready to report polling status while Bob walks Val through a final suit integrity check & switch over to internal life support, which Bill said he felt rushed doing later in the count
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] pad is clear, launch corridor is clear, airspace empty - RSO has closed the range, Flight Termination System/LES is ACTIVE, rocket is ARMED. All visitors should be wearing hearing protection - security will perform a check & anyone not will be moved indoors
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
there was an extended period of grunting, scraping and bumping noises coming over the capsule comms. When they died down Bob asked - "what was all that?" Val, embarrassed she forgot to mute her mic, replied - "I was scratching an itch on my head"
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] final countdown has begun, meaning from this point on any issues will likely result in a reset to L-30 with a new L-0. Local weather conditions and conditions at the recovery site remain green. Pad workers prepping to clear the launch site
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob & Val are very close friends, so having him to chat with during this late stage in preflight has kept her relaxed when she doesn't have much to do & anxiety can creep in. Still, Flight Surgeon is keeping a close eye on her vitals even when down here on the ground
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
you are NOT allowed to drive personal vehicles across the causeway! Park in the Support Village garage and wait for a shuttle bus. Security just cleared another traffic jam because we had to make a car turn around at the gate. Don't hold up other launch attendees!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Ascension Mk1 can be flown with an empty capsule - so what does the crew have to do? The control panel still needs manual configuration for flight, readouts have to be visually checked, manual controls need to be manipulated to ensure proper function.... plenty!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h55m] Monolith chilldown was begun earlier today and weather desk reports atmospheric pressure is stable. Rocket is configured for tanking and pad crew has the fuel truck hooked to the service towers. GO has been given to begin propellant onload
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h10m] mounting was wrapped up during flight briefing, weather remains GO with new launch forecast showing no adverse surface conditions. Bob is back at Launch Control for his CapCom duties, walking Val through capsule configuration with the launch team
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h40m] Flight Director Lanalye has her A Team assembled in Launch Control for final mission brief. If the rocket manages to stay on course and fly the planned trajectory Val should have nearly 13 minutes in space, more than twice as long as Bill's 0G trip
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h20m] capsule hatch has been sealed, loading ramp moved away and Bob has his intercom plugged in to keep tabs on Val inside as mounting operations begin to get the rocket back to vertical atop its engine mount and hooked into the service tower
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h45m] capsule is prepped for ingress and Val is climbing in, assisted by Bob and pad workers as the angle makes getting in easy but strapping in is a bit more of a challenge while wanting to roll sideways. Crew photo snapped earlier after arriving at the pad
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-4)
9/17
#2π09:48:47 π 11:59:09 !!ππ¨βπ!!
#3π15:49:38 π 18:00:00
#4π21:50:29
9/18
#1π 23:00:51 π03:51:20
#2π 06:01:42
@ KSC (UTC-4)
9/17
#2π09:48:47 π 11:59:09 !!ππ¨βπ!!
#3π15:49:38 π 18:00:00
#4π21:50:29
9/18
#1π 23:00:51 π03:51:20
#2π 06:01:42
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Val & Jeb are both awake (well, in Jeb's case woken up) and enjoying their choice breakfasts prior to suiting up. Val will depart for the pad at L-5hrs while Jeb remains in the ready room in the event that he is needed to crew the capsule
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our 1st kerbed launch had the rocket rolled out the same day so we wouldn't have to lower it again. However we ended up doing that anyways a few times & the pad crew found it to not be as big a hassle as feared, so now it is rolled out a day prior & can undergo extra checks
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Ascension Mk1 had a good roll out and mounting over the previous day cycle. Flight Director Lanalye and her A team are preparing for a wet dress rehearsal to make sure all connections and pad equipment are ready for operations as part of their launch readiness
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all 3 UTVs have been recovered & returned to KSC. Bill will help inspect them to determine if any can be repaired. All the KerBalloon equipment they carried was a total loss. CFO Mortimer was obviously not pleased - he only barely ever manages to tolerate accidents with rockets
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Val, primary crew, is spending most of her time while cooped up reviewing her mission materials. Jeb, backup crew, is pretty much gaming until he passes out. Had their roles been reversed... they would both most likely be doing the same thing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KAS has new orbital data posted for bit.ly/Vieras and it looks like it may be flung into Kerbin after its next encounter on Oct 2nd! Although past predictions one encounter away have proven to be accurate, some still believe that it will be sticking around until 2020
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
thankfully since our last major UTV tumble incident (kerbalspace.agency/?p=2485) cockpits have been reinforced and all but one crew escaped with only minor injury - the one with a broken arm is stable & not in need of medevac
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've received word of an accident on the flank of the volcano as the UTVs were making their ascent. The pathfinder vehicle tried to cut up a slope that was too steep, rolled down and took out the other two equipment carriers behind it. They all fell a few hundred meters
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
final closeouts passed, loaded up on its carry vehicle and marshaled to the front of the VAB, Commander Val's ride to space is now ready to head for the pad next week! Jeb has been trying to convince everyone he's hearing lots of coughing coming from her quarters
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
πβ¨Happy Operational Birthday to us!β¨π KERZZAH!
today is the start of our 4th year in operation π₯ Send us a gift - tell us what you enjoy most about the Kerbal Space Agency.
today is the start of our 4th year in operation π₯ Send us a gift - tell us what you enjoy most about the Kerbal Space Agency.
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
UTVs of the high-alt KB crew will have by now stopped at the base of the volcano to allow the scientists at the small outpost there to properly calibrate the equipment they brought. They will drive for their release point near the summit tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
load checks passed, structural elements all good, the Ascension Mk1 was laid back horizontal in the VAB today then gone over with a fine-toothed comb (AKA 26 page checklist) to make sure everything was completed as planned during its construction. They'll finish tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the UTVs have been turned around, this time carrying the high-altitude crew and making for bit.ly/Sector_ABLE - on the slopes of the "extinct" volcano to the south for more gas measurements as scientists still think it may be waking up
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
TL;DR: we learned a lot of new lessons, some of which have already been applied to Val's upcoming mission for what we hope will continue to be progress towards a more on-target ascent & final trajectory so our future missions can save fuel & fly tighter margins
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all the nitty gritty details on last month's Ascension Mk1 flight are now available along with a full data and performance analysis from the rocket telemetry. Want to know what these plots are all about? Check out the report: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9754
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Commander Val & Captain Jeb are now sequestered within the Astronaut Complex until next week's mission. They'll be regularly monitored & only accessed by medical staff to ensure both are & remain in good health. Bill & Bob are totally not planning to lounge outside their windows
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with the previous Ascension flight analysis wrapping up & data from the rocket sled testing, planners have made a late change to next week's mission w/ a higher trajectory from ensuring the rocket burns out w/in the atmosphere, nearing 300km apokee & slightly rougher on re-entry
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the rocket sled has finished integration with the second to last SRB today and will be back out on the track this day cycle to stand ready for the next test run late this following week. Until then the water trap will be deepened to decelerate the sled faster & generate more Gs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this behavior has been evident the past 4 flights since we started angling the fins, but it has always been masked by another more obvious issue and we never saw it happen on its own until the rocket burned out of the atmosphere with a stable attitude
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ongoing analysis shows what happened at the end of last mission's ascent. The fin angle offset mass to create torque downwards and to the left (right fin is rocket bottom) when near empty tanks . Window on left shows that even had we used RCS thrusters this could not be overcome
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today is the anniversary for the discovery of bit.ly/Vieras. Over the course of a year it has completed more than 90 orbits around Kerbin and traveled nearly 10,000,000km. Original projections state it could be sticking around a bit longer until mid-2020
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
Jeb managed to just barely beat Val 434 successful missions to 431 (total) in their last day of capsule simulator training. There's undoubtedly still things that can go wrong we haven't thought of to prepare for but hopefully that list is very, very small
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
unlike Mun, Minmus is not tidally locked to Kerbin, which means observing it regularly will give you different views as it rotates. Combined with its inclined orbit and different times of day, you get a very dynamic celestial object that's easy to see for young astronomers
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Val and Jeb have both been released this weekend to head home and spend time with their friends and families before the intensive week leading up to the mission begins. Jeb hails from Ockr and Val was born in Kravass
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Engineer Simon reports from the VAB that the rocket sled handled the quick stop much better and they won't need to replace any undercarriage parts before the next test. They will integrate a fresh SRB next week and be ready for the next test later this month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the great part about the check is it's very simple - if the control movements do not cease by the time of ignition at T-6s, then it's because they are moving too slowly through the planned motions due to lack of hydraulic pressure and engine ignition will be aborted
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here's a close-up look of the engine ignition from the last Ascension Mk1 flight, with the new control movement sequence. This was added to double-check hydraulic performance in the event that readouts from the rocket to controllers on system pressure were incorrect
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Engineer Simon has told the Ascension team to expect delays to the Mobile Launch Platform as they struggle with getting the engines installed. They still hope to finish by the end of the month but could possibly run into early October
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Kongo River Research Station has its own 500km communications aerial for local transmissions. A ground/sea cable connecting it to Kravass is being proposed for next year, but until then any orbiting satellite that sends down data to the station can't get to us directly
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
obviously none of our astronauts like to "die" in the simulator, but if they never did then they wouldn't be training hard. Jeb says FD Lanalye must have some kind of hidden sadistic personality to manage to come up with so many ways to try to kill them
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VAB is quite busy these days with this month's Ascension Mk1 center stage for final integration prep, next month's Ascension Mk2 is starting to get some attention and the Progeny Mk7-A for later this month is almost ready for staging. Guest appearance by the rocket sled
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
released from the medical clinic, Murstap says he will definitely take a break & deep dive the data before the next run later this month. He described the experience as "mildly uncomfortable" and gave a lot of credit to the Mk1 capsule design for helping him take the strain
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
depending on how the next Mk7-A flight goes will help to decide whether to make the full Mk7-B stack 0.625m, which is the eventual Mk7 goal but we'd like to stick to the 0.35m 3rd stage parts that are currently being manufactured as much as possible for as long as possible
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
contract evaluation by the Progenitor team is well underway for a new 0.625m solid rocket booster that will either replace the 1st and 2nd stages of the Mk7 entirely or just replace the 0.35m second stage solid booster. This will become the basis for the Mk7-B
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Murstap has been extricated from the capsule and carried away to the Support Village clinic for a full medical evaluation. The sled will be returned to the VAB for inspection and integration with the next SRB if it hasn't received any damage during the run
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
whooooosh!! We had a successful track run, seen here ending with the sled slamming to a stop in the water trap. Emergency response crews have moved in, but we already have Murstap assuring everyone over comms from the capsule that he is okay
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
5min to ignition, all systems are GO! Once ignited, the booster will accelerate Murstap at up to 3.5Gs to speeds of ~260m/s over just 11 seconds and along 1.8km of track. The booster will flame out just before hitting the water trap and halt over the next 400m w/ ~18Gs of force
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
allll aboard! Dr. Murstap has been sealed into the capsule, sled is tracked and the test team at launch control is working through checks on the booster engine. Current target for ignition is 17:40 UTC. Emergency response crews are also deploying near the track end
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the rocket sled is heading out to the test track while Dr. Murstap gets ready to board it later this day cycle for the first kerbed test run. Wernher actually recommended another dummy test run but Murstap was adamant as only 2 boosters remain available for use after this one
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the 1st K2-X engine ordered back in May has been delivered, one of three that will be completed by the end of the year. This one is earmarked for the 1st Ascension Mk2 mission & will be test-fired this week to ensure good operation prior to integration with its flight hardware
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the capsule from last week's flight has been delivered back to KSC so it can begin to be closely inspected by engineers in the VAB to determine how it and its various accompanying parts are holding up after multiple flights, which will ultimately affect kerbed capsule reuse
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Extremis program is still being granted processing time to work possible future trajectories for beyond 2021 and we are still hoping to launch the first Extremis probe to fly by Eve, Jool and Plock in 2021 over the course of just 3 years!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today was supposed to be the launch of Extremis 2, aiming to fly by Moho, Duna, Dres and Jool. While it may seem laughable now to think back in 2017 we imagined we'd have interplanetary space craft capabilities by now, there was never any reason to hold back on our ambitions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
full analysis of the test data from the rocket sled run last week has made Dr. Murstap confident he can take the next ride. There's still ongoing debate about where to draw the initial line for the force of deceleration he will endure - anywhere from 14-18Gs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new orbital data for bit.ly/_Alaba shows it to remain right on the trajectory predicted 3 encounters ago back in May. The fact that it's still accurate whereas Vieras drifts after 2 encounters have astronomers looking at the amount of change to the Kerbin-centric orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerbal Astronomical Society have published updated orbital data through the Asteroid Tracking Network for bit.ly/Vieras - details on orbital accuracy included. It will pass through Mun's SOI again on 9/13 for its closest pass ever, which will significantly alter its orbit - but it will remain bound to Kerbin
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our second rocket sled test was delayed yesterday due to technical issues but successfully ran the track earlier today. Initial post-run analysis shows everything to be within expected margins and Dr. Murstap is planning to be aboard the next run in September
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Ascension Mk1 mockup joins the Progeny Mk4 (first in space) out on our campus lawn. This weekend a special dedication ceremony will be held and the Presider will be on hand to award Specialist Bill a commendation medal for being the first kerbal in space
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Mobile Launch Platform construction continues on schedule in the HAB. One of the two massive engines is being placed today for installation next week, followed by the second the week after and the treads will be attached to the transmission blocks by mid-Sept as well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although they had to fight through nasty storms both ways, weather over the release site was favorable and the low-altitude KerBalloon crew have just made it safely back to port in Umbarg. Here is the balloon release off the deck with the cliffs of the ice shelf in the distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the RTG is another test article like the one that will be flown on the Progeny Mk7-A to further check the ability of the casing to withstand re-entry and impact - possibly the first test if the Mk7-A mission fails again. We plan for the RTG to be flight certified by mid-2020
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
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
because the lift stage w/booster cam remained attached, because the rocket was slowly tumbling and because there was a little bit of extra storage, we managed to snag these three photos in sequence from 327km apokee staring down towards Sheltered Rock and Ockr
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
post-launch operations have concluded, pad remains in good shape for next month's mission. Technically, this was the 51st launch overall if you count the air launch of the Mk1-B last year (kerbalspace.agency/?p=8264) but we are marking today's launch as the 50th from the ground
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Aldeny is still about 40min out but has confirmed they've picked up the locator beacon from the capsule! π KERZZAH! π₯ its main batteries will have drained by now so the remainder of the operations log will be included with the flight telemetry tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
unfortunately due to the off-course trajectory we have lost the capsule below the horizon before we could get confirmation of full chute deployment, but all telemetry until LOS looked good and MSV Aldeny is only just over an hour from the splashdown location. Standing by...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
<10s to atmosphere, good capsule sep followed by a radial orientation and then guidance was unlocked for a manual forward thrust to put more distance between the capsule & lift stage before re-orienting retrograde to present the heat shield towards the velocity vector
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
passing down through 250km controllers are preparing to stow the GRS and then separate the capsule from the lift stage. The rocket is in a slow end-over-end tumble (~0.5RPM), so it's important to wait for the proper moment to ensure good initial separation
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
through 327km apokee now, the RPWS has been stowed and the Gamma-Ray Spectrometer is now rotated to face out the capsule hatch and has been deployed. It will gather readings through the coast down to low-Kerbin space at 250km before we run short of data storage capacity
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're having issues with high-rate data transmission & will have to forsake some of our planned scientific observations on this mission since we cannot store all the data meant to xmit. New trajectory has been confirmed & MSV Aldeny is moving off station to the new recovery area
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
magnetometer on the fuel tank has been extended and the capsule hatch has been opened to deploy the RPWS antenna. Principle investigators are receiving science instrument data downlink while mission planners continue to evaluate the new trajectory
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MECO @ 104km, a little higher than planned 98km and also now well off course due to an off-center thrust of the rocket that became apparent as it continued to burn out of the atmosphere w/o any ctrl surfaces to fight against it. Controllers are assessing the situation
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ascent continues to look good into the upper atmosphere, as seen visually from the ground tracking cam. Telemetry-wise all remains nominal as well, apokee is out of the atmosphere and guidance remains on course heading 53Β°, now holding 44Β° pitch for the remainder of the ascent
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good main engine start, throttle up and
β¨50th LIFT OFFβ¨
The 8th Ascension Mk1 takes to the sky, carrying new scientific instruments up into space! Clearing the tower, the rocket will roll onto launch heading and then begin to pitch downrange as it throttles up to full power
β¨50th LIFT OFFβ¨
The 8th Ascension Mk1 takes to the sky, carrying new scientific instruments up into space! Clearing the tower, the rocket will roll onto launch heading and then begin to pitch downrange as it throttles up to full power
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-1m] time to tune in to ops.kerbalspace.agency if you have not already for live launch telemetry! Final poll at T-30s followed by these events leading up to launch. We added a new check to ensure hydraulics remain nominal
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] range closure is in effect, any incursion will hold the count. Rocket has been ARMED, Flight Termination System/LES is ACTIVE. Reminder to all visitors that hearing protection is REQUIRED outdoors - we've only had to escort offsite 2 kerbs so far since 2018
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
off to the right in the previous photo are 4 celestial bodies. Who can name them? We'll give you Minmus, up top, since that's tough to determine from a photo. The other three? Maybe checking out the current planetary locations will help bit.ly/Ops_Tracker
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] we are GO for final countdown! Weather has been improving all day both here & over recovery zone so now just hoping for a report of calm @upperlevelwinds at L-5min. Range Safety Officer is awaiting confirmation of pad lock-down and clear air/sea range
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-45m] inside an hour to launch, pad crew is preparing to clear out and FD Lanalye is running her team through a rehearsal to ensure all systems and assets are properly setup for the mission while the weather desk takes another look (literally) at conditions outside
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h55m] rocket is woke, systems initialized and pad crew has the tanker hooked up to the service tower - FD Lanalye says we are GO for fueling operations. Photo taken a few minutes ago as the light from sunset fades behind the mountains
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h10m] we are GO from the weather desk to continue into pre-flight, although conditions remain iffy. Monolith temple is cleared out for general safety but no longer chilled down for unkerbed missions. Controllers are on console waking up the rocket & onloading flight software
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we also wanted to try some additional emergency recovery procedures during the return using the LES but it's important we get the onboard instruments back safely, which is also why this mission has a Launch Escape System included to begin with
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h40m] Flight Director (FD) Lanalye is gathering her B team in Launch Control for final mission briefing. Here is an overview of the flight, which will be less-aggressive on ascent than previous unkerbed missions due to the sensitive scientific instruments onboard & outboard
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
RT @DKerman_KSA: there is no launch time constraint for this mission. Making the early attempt just means if anything goes wrong in the lead-up there's a better chance we can make at least another attempt before scrubbing the day.
This logic however does not make getting up before 7am easier -_-
This logic however does not make getting up before 7am easier -_-
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-4)
8/28
#2π08:40:42 π 10:51:03 !!π!!
#3π14:41:33 π 16:51:54
#4π20:42:24 π 22:52:45
8/29
#1π02:43:15 π 04:53:36
@ KSC (UTC-4)
8/28
#2π08:40:42 π 10:51:03 !!π!!
#3π14:41:33 π 16:51:54
#4π20:42:24 π 22:52:45
8/29
#1π02:43:15 π 04:53:36
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
sea conditions are finally calming down east of Ockr and MSV Aldeny was able to move back into recovery position. Launch forecast for tomorrow not as good with 30% chance of violation but that's enough to commit to pre-launch operations, which will kick off at 11:25 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this is a scale comparison between RGD-323(C) and ZUW-310(A), both recently imaged by the Arekibo Radio Observatory. Class A asteroids tend to be ~5-7m in diameter with Class C's being ~3x larger while Class E's can be over 2x larger than Class C's
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch has been scrubbed for today. MSV Aldeny was forced earlier to move off station as conditions worsened and has not been able to return. We will continue to monitor the situation and do not expect conditions to persist into tomorrow. New L-0 set for 15:35 UTC on 8/28
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are delaying today's launch. Our recovery vessel MSV Aldeny sailed out to the splashdown zone late yesterday and reports today that seas are too rough for recovery operations. We will hope for better conditions next day cycle. New L-0 set for 21:30 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-4)
8/27
#2π08:37:18 π 10:47:39 !!π!!
#3π14:38:09 π 16:48:30
#4π20:39:00 π 22:49:21
8/28
#1π02:39:51 π 04:50:12
@ KSC (UTC-4)
8/27
#2π08:37:18 π 10:47:39 !!π!!
#3π14:38:09 π 16:48:30
#4π20:39:00 π 22:49:21
8/28
#1π02:39:51 π 04:50:12
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have a π GO for launch π tomorrow from Operations Director @DKerman_KSA, who reviewed and signed off on all readiness reports. Forecast for tomorrow is 90% favorable with a chance of high surface winds. Launch prep will begin at 11:20 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our crew have returned successfully from their latest survival excursion, which helps them prepare for an off-target landing which could set them down in hazardous conditions that could require 1-2 days for us to locate and recover them. Obviously something we hope never happens!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
there is no "dark side" of Mun - the entire surface (well, except at the poles) sees sunlight at one point or another. It's the *far side* that we can't see. This is one of many common misconceptions among kerbs, and is why we put a lot of effort into educational outreach
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's been a month since we put a kerbal into space & we've gotten @yorshee to commemorate the occasion with this look at mission control when we got word Specialist Bill had safely splashed down, with Ops Dir @DKerman_KSA congratulating Flight Director Lanalye on a job well done
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
about an hour ago ESA-390(C) entered our SOI for the second time since it was discovered back in March. It will be passing at no closer than 4.19 Munar Distance which is thankfully much further than its original 0.14 MD visit. No 3rd pass has yet been predicted
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
pilgrims continue to flock regularly to the Monolith temple for "cleansing" as the belief holds that the EM field is imparting healing energies (since it healed the Monolith). Now only 50m in radius, it shrunk from 150m earlier this year when the storms began forming
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ascension Mk1 for next week has passed load checks and is being laid back horizontal for final close outs. Mk1 for Sept has its engine prepared and will be center-stage next week to begin its final integration while the Ascension Mk2 & Progeny Mk7-A prep begins in the wings
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ascension Mk2 mission was running a fine line between test vs. success - we want to push the rocket to its limits but also want to see it succeed making orbit. Ultimately Ops Director @DKerman_KSA has lowered the payload mass from 2t to 0.5-1t for more comfortable error margins
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-altitude KerBalloon team has a new contract signed for next week over the northern ice shelf. CFO Mortimer had negotiations for a high-altitude short-notice contract fall through when the airship we had chartered had to undergo sudden "maintenance" (we suspect Barons trying to mess with us)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Engineer Simon reports the rocket sled will need some parts replaced and reinforced against the massive deceleration at the end of the track, but future runs should leave the sled in good shape. We should be able to get another test in before the end of Aug
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the ascent profile for the upcoming unkerbed Ascension Mk1 mission was easy to plan because the mass of the rocket ended up within 200kg the mass of the last mission thx to the lighter fins & control surfaces. Sometimes, things just work out
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the research station near the source of the Kongo has already established itself as a frontier scientific outpost for the region, and now activity can increase due to faster service from fixed-wing aircraft, tho airships still provide cargo transport for large shipments
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after many delays, original planned to be finished in April, the airport for the Kongo River Research Station (KRG) has been completed. It features a new runway/taxiway system that will be used for the future KRA near Kravass opening in 2020 & can easily handle the Dhumla
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today saw the 1st real test of the rocket sled, roaring down the runway at speeds of ~250m/s with test dummy Greggery aboard. It did not fly off the track and stopped properly in the water trap @ >15Gs. Back in the VAB now crew is assessing damage to the sled's undercarriage
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
besides the massive 200m dish at Arekibo, the ATN Central Observatory is also planning to have their 60m dish installed and active in late 2020, which will allow for longer tracking & greater sky coverage when working in conjunction with Arekibo
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Arekibo Radio Observatory took a look at RGD-323(C) as it is traversing through the system. Img intensity shows areas that reflect back the strongest waves, both due to surface material & angle of the terrain. Slowly tumbling, each img is a diff part of the asteroid's surface
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
submissions are already underway and dates for the launches will be announced in October. Depending on the response, the funding for the program can provide for up to 6 launches with 2 experiments on each. KSP's last activity was back in 2016-17: kerbalspace.agency/?p=1722
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Kerbal Sounding Project has returned with a new initiative to help get the next generation of space explorers ready - student experiments will be launched on sub-orbital flights aboard the Progeny Mk6-I, using kits developed by Umbra Space Industries
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the heat shield from the last Ascension flight came back with 197u of ablator and after resurfacing still has 180u remaining. This implies It could be reused several more times but its not just the surface that we need to worry about, also structure from repeated High-G stress
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
construction for the Mobile Launch Platform in the HAB continues on schedule. With the tread blocks in place, the main deck will continue to be built while the drive axles and internal transmissions are installed prior to the engines & treads themselves
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb & Val are working with MSV Tongjess this week on sea recovery drills - minus the capsule because we currently don't have a spare - new one has been ordered, original test article w/rocket sled, backup set for next mission. Believe it or not, a garbage bin works pretty good
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Tongjess has pulled into port in Umbarg with both our KerBalloon teams aboard and well. All three missions were successful in releasing and collecting their balloons, whose data will be sent to our contractors. Ker-ching! CFO Mortimer very pleased to ink some black
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a look into the VAB as the Ascension Mk1 for next week (center) prepares to go vertical to have the capsule mounted while the one for Sept (left) begins integration w/ its engine. To the right is the sled undergoing SRB integration for a test run later this week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
there are 4 known moonlets of Kerbin at the moment, and you can always see where they are in the bit.ly/OpsTracker_Ker⦠but don't forget one was discovered by accident (kerbalspace.agency/?p=2555) so maybe there's one or more up there we haven't spotted yet
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a year later, this still happens. Still also not much we can do about it but annoying nonetheless. We've tried to learn who pays for these but to no avail - not to bring suit against them or anything, just to understand why *sigh* twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Genesis will not be taking on any new pilots for the foreseeable future. No longer holding our exclusive commercial contract has really thrown the market wide open & we are losing out to independent operators w/lower costs. Civvie & Duece will mostly fly our own missions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN/DSN South & North construction are both proceeding well for 2020. North remains behind schedule but hasn't fallen back further. All the buildings on both sites are complete & now the arduous process of getting all the delicate equipment up there will occupy the next 6 months
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after track re-alignment the sled is back to being towed by our patrol cars, the fastest vehicles on the campus. They can get up to ~40m/s while pulling the sled which is a small fraction of the speed it will actually travel, but good enough for basic testing purposes
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
scientists continue to remain fascinated by the ability of the Goo to resist space radiation, different from the radiation of its underground habitat, and also enter stasis when lacking atmosphere. Longer-term orbital studies are needed to fully understand it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
papers have been hitting science journals with results from the Mystery Goo atmospheric flights in 2018 and space flight early this year and now new orbital experiments are being designed that we hope to have the privilege to fly in early 2020 aboard the Ascension Mk2
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ascension team has mostly locked in the mission profiles for the next two flights and are now focusing on the Mk2 mission, which will aim to put a 2t payload into low-Kerbin orbit - basically the heavier a mass we can throw up the more power & longer life it will have up there
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
security patrol intercepted 2 kerbs attempting to sneak onto KSC from the Monolith temple complex to the north. They had possession of spray paint. Security has increased since kerbed missions began so take this as an example. Don't try anything. You will be caught & prosecuted
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the engine tested today was originally set for the Mk2 but that was before we decided to throw in another unkerbed Mk1 mission before the Mk2 mission twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the K2-X engine for next month's Ascension Mk1 mission has had a successful static fire on the test stand today. Next month will be the first delivery of the engine order we placed back in May, which will be used for the Ascension Mk2 mission in Oct
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
both the high- and low-altitude KerBalloon teams have departed aboard MSV Tongjess for their missions. Since the high-altitude team would like to possibly wait for good release conditions, they will be dropped off 1st and picked up later, with UTVs for traversal
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
β¨ Kerzzah! β¨ today is the completion of our 10th trip around Kerbol since KSA operations began back in 2016 π« That's a total travel distance of 853,647,257km! In a straight line from the sun's center that would put us beyond the orbit of Plock. Here's to many more! π₯
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Engineer Simon & Head of R&D Wernher von Kerman still haven't agreed on who to blame for misreading or mislabeling the dimensions of the folded magnetometer boom but it won't fit in the capsule. Slim profile however means it can be mounted externally on the fuel tank
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Air History Museum in Kravass has bought the capsule Specialist Bill flew into space. We'll be buying a new capsule with the money and for the mission next month the backup capsule we bought back in Feb will be put into service
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a few bumps on the turf and jeb is back down, taxiing around the sled track again and back to the HAB. Researchers will be spending the rest of the year working on all the pollen data that's been collected since 2017 to help improve the health & safety of surface living
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
back within sight of KSC Jeb has opted for the visual approach, will fly a left-pattern entering crosswind and setup for landing back on Rwy09. He'll line up with the paved runway first as it's easier to see, then divert to the turf on short final
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
collection complete, back down to a more comfortable altitude. Jeb's pattern looks more like wings of a fly rather then petals of a flower but most important is he hit all the altitude levels on each pass +/- 250m while within 10km of the target. Cruising home along the coast now
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
cruising on "the deck" 500m AGL over the Grasslands, the sky has gotten darker due to a kerbolar eclipse currently in progress - you can see the edge of Mun's shadow as it passes to the north on the right side of the image. Not a mission factor, just a nice coincidence
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good departure, coming about on course towards his objective after climbing straight out to 800m, now passing through 1.5km. He got a good view of KSC as he banked around. Thankfully the tide was not this high yesterday or the whole Cape would have been underwater
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb has suited up and is heading over to Flight Control for briefing. His mission will take him out over the western grasslands, where he will perform a now standard "petal pass" through the area to collect air samples from various directions & altitudes
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill spent time with the capsule simulator team today planning some changes to make the experience feel more authentic now that he knows what the differences are between simulated and actual space flight - such as not being able to get audio feedback of the thrusters firing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
CFO Mortimer has been working the books hard & decided funds are available for another Progeny Mk7-A mission, which will be used to test payload fairings and RTG casing crash tolerance, both needed for future Ascension missions. Launch set for 9/26 @ 17:25 ops.kerbalspace.agency
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Cpt Jeb's Civvie flight today has been scrubbed due to weather as the remains of a storm system from off the ocean sweep over us, leading to some high winds and high seas. Now you know why the entire KSC campus is elevated several meters off the surface of the Cape
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the astronaut crew is ready to get back to work tomorrow and begin training for the next space mission. They all had a relaxing vacation - Bill did some racing & wrenching, Bob & Val spent some surface time camping & stargazing, Jeb caught up on his computer gaming
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Some examples of astronomical events from our astrophotography album on flickr (flickr.com/photos/kerbal_β¦). You can also call any of the first three events a syzygy
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we pass opposition with Dres today. When looking at the kerbol system edge-on, you can see how much "lower" it is at the moment. This is what allowed astronomers to pick out all the ring moonlets in their recent observations from the past few months, and the coming few
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the vertical test stand today had a good static fire of the K2-X engine that will power the next unkerbed Mk1 rocket into space. Before the kerbed Mk1 engine gets its turn, we will make sure dampeners functioned properly to keep the fuel tank from damaging the engine again
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
learning from past mistakes, R&D has put out a campus-wide notice today that they will once again need to vent by-products of an experiment and there should be no cause for alarm
...unless you actually hear one
twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
...unless you actually hear one
twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
CFO Mortimer is looking into the potential for recovering the SRBs from the Ascension Mk2 since they will be let go at 2-3km and land close enough our range vessel could perhaps recover them for little extra cost. Core lifter though is not recoverable for less than a new one
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after towing the sled for a few dozen runs down the track these past two days, some minor adjustments will be made to the rail alignment over the next week followed by more test runs that will hopefully certify the track ready for accel/decel testing w/test dummy Greggery
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
last week's Viklun stage test also put the CX-4181 control system through its paces. It has two CPUs for redundancy and cross-check during ascent and orbital insertion, then allows the stage to perform maneuvers after payload separation
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
RT @AstroAnticss: can I take over from @justhereforksa as official haiku writer?
Val should go to space/But if something happens then/Jeb will take her place
Up into the sky
Either Val or Jeb will fly
Who knows? Not this guy
Val should go to space/But if something happens then/Jeb will take her place
Up into the sky
Either Val or Jeb will fly
Who knows? Not this guy
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have dates for the next Ascension Mk1 missions!
Uncrewed Mk1: 8/27 @ 15:30
Crewed Mk1: 9/17 @ 17:10
Aug mission will test several new science instruments & Sep mission will send Cdr Val into space (Cpt Jeb is her backup). Details on bit.ly/Ops_Tracker
Uncrewed Mk1: 8/27 @ 15:30
Crewed Mk1: 9/17 @ 17:10
Aug mission will test several new science instruments & Sep mission will send Cdr Val into space (Cpt Jeb is her backup). Details on bit.ly/Ops_Tracker
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our new test stands have been completed to replace the one destroyed by an engine explosion back in Feb. Vertical stand will test liquid engines & horizontal stand will test SRBs - both up to 3.75m. The K2-X engine for the next Ascension Mk1 flight will be mounted this week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
results from the Viklun test firings show it is likely to under-perform in flight, due to losses in efficiency while operating. This is not unexpected for our first vacuum engine design. Further modeling of Mk2 Mun/Minmus missions has been put on hold until we have flight data
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the unkerbed Mk1 & Mk2 missions will use the newer, lighter fins & ctrl surfaces. Kerbed Mk1 will stick to originals not just because they are well-tested but the same mass makes it easier for flight planners to stick to the same trajectory we wanted for the 1st kerbed mission
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the main deck of the Mobile Launch Platform is welded together and laid bare in the HAB as the huge tread blocks start to arrive, upon which the main deck will be mounted over the next week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the shuttle the cars are hooked to, which is itself hooked to the sled, is designed to keep the cable pull even from both sides, since the drivers wouldn't be in perfect sync, and ensures the sled is pulled straight down the track with no lateral force. Good runs today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
test runs of the rocket sled began today after successful installation yesterday. A security patrol car is hooked on each side via cable to a shuttle that pulls the sled down the length of the track at varying speeds to ensure alignment and wheels are good
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
TL;DR - pitch problems rectified for future flights, LVD ascent profile modeling getting better. Attempting the same planned trajectory for next mission and Ascension engineers have already begun work on a Mk1-B single-occupancy capsule for 2020
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
flight analysis for the kerbed Ascension Mk1 mission last month has been posted: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9491 Ascension team is now working to schedule the next two missions - expect dates to be announced later this week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
C7 has begun to build their new Dhumla aircraft at their Kravass plant, altho the wings and airframe will still be shipped here to undergo final assembly in the HAB, until C7 can get their own surface facility built early next year with the construction of the new Kravass airport
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Ascension Mk2 is configured with 4 SRBs by default but costs could be saved by launching with less. All 4 provide important structural loading though while on the MLP, so in cases where fewer can be used, dummy boosters will be left behind on the pad at launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket sled is being placed on the track today - sans rocket. There's still a lot of basic testing that needs to be done before we send it screaming at high speeds down the track, even with a dummy aboard, since we don't want to damage the track or the sled if possible
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new orbital data for bit.ly/Vieras shows an intercept on 8/27 12s later than when using orbital data from both encounters in June. Will be interesting to see which is closer when the time comes
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
oh hey we forgot to award ourselves a new ribbon! We've also added a new record for Longest Time in Space, which Bill has initially set at 05m21s. Check out our other achievements, firsts and records: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9510 what other records should we track?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our astronauts, mostly Bill, have concluded a whirlwind week of media engagements across all 4 caverns and are looking forwards to taking the following week of leave - their first real vacation in months! Rest well-earned we can all agree
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
another successful engine startup and burn! The stage will be returned to the VAB next week for even more checks and by the end of the month we should be able to determine if we are ready to schedule the first Mk2 mission, once again attempting orbit π«
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π¨AAAHHHHWWWOOOOOOOOOπ¨
Viklun stage has been refueled and brought to ignition readiness for its second restart/third firing attempt in 5 minutes. The engine will drain the tank dry, performing more throttle tests to collect additional data required based on previous testing
Viklun stage has been refueled and brought to ignition readiness for its second restart/third firing attempt in 5 minutes. The engine will drain the tank dry, performing more throttle tests to collect additional data required based on previous testing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it only took 4 days for the funding campaign to reach its goal and we shall have a mockup of the Ascension Mk1 joining the Progeny Mk4 (first to space) out on the KSC main lawn by the end of the month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
orbital data for Vieras from the beginning and middle of June intercepts both accurately predicted the encounter starting this minute, the 6th known pass of the moonlet through Mun's SOI, which will last approximately 1h8m passing 1,588.691km from the surface at perimun
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the team was able to constrain the orbits of 12 moonlets, which form a loose ring around the planet all with inclinations <0.01Β° - which means Dres may have had a moon at some point - maybe two? Astronomers are eager to gather more data over the coming year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
another astronomical mystery surfaces with the results from an extended observation campaign of Dres, which concluded in June and the results just published today. The team is already looking to book more time on the 10m ATN Central scope twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
have a look at the frequency of our missions over the past few years broken down by program. This is just one of many examples of data visualization we've published in the past. You can see more in our flickr album: flickr.com/photos/kerbal_β¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
even orbiting near us, a smaller planet than Dres could have been missed back before astronomy was a thing prior to the impact. Main gaps in the theory called out by detractors are 1) where are the other big chunks besides the one that hit us & 2) how could it have broken apart?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Arekibo sits on the site of the impact that nearly wiped out kerbal civilization. Majority of meteorites match its resulting unique keological composition. Unlikely they are returning ejecta, which means they were already up there - from a broken-up larger body smaller than Dres?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the scientific community has been divided by a controversial paper published this week. Analysis of meteorites recovered so far has found a match with rocks that were excavated during Arekibo construction. Have we been getting pelted by the remains of a planet!?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the track for the rocket sled has been completed, running nearly the full length of the runway at just under 2km. The remaining few hundred meters at the end is a water trough which will rapidly decelerate the sled. Test runs will begin next week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
second engine burn was successful! Viklun can be restarted twice, so another test on 8/2 will go for the third ignition after time is taken for data analysis and engine inspection while the stage remains out on the pad
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good engine start, burn will last over the next ~2min. The two unoccupied tanker trucks are carrying water that will be activated shortly to douse the pad & keep the surface from overheating from the continuous rocket exhaust. Vertical mount ensures proper fuel flow to engine
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π¨AAAHHWWWWOOOOOOOOOπ¨
5min warning horn sounding across KSC as ignition system goes hot. Pad is cleared, no Flight Termination System is enabled - TWR @ sea level is less than 1 so if engine vibrations compromise ground clamps for some reason the stage would just fall to the pad
5min warning horn sounding across KSC as ignition system goes hot. Pad is cleared, no Flight Termination System is enabled - TWR @ sea level is less than 1 so if engine vibrations compromise ground clamps for some reason the stage would just fall to the pad
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
tanking completed, onloading 2t of liquid propellants to power the vacuum engine. Because we are testing it in atmosphere performance will be reduced but that can be compensated for in post-analysis and also really for basic testing we just want to make sure it doesn't blow up
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
mounting was good, launch control now getting the onboard controller initialized and ready for tanking. Viklun has its own computer so once a payload is detached it can still be de-orbited or moved to a graveyard orbit, orienting via its own cold gas thrusters (no engine gimbal)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Viklun orbital stage that will make up part of the Ascension Mk2 is on its way out to the launch pad for mounting, where it will be static-fired prior to 4th sunset. This will be the 1st firing of the actual production engine as well as operation of the whole integrated stage
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
thankfully the airship did not come under continuous attack - a few warning shots went almost unnoticed & before they could begin turning back one of their gas chambers was punctured. After that though they were able to retreat without being further accosted & limp back to Umbarg
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a kermanitarian airship that sought out the kerbs discovered in the Great Desert to open relations and render aid was repelled by more primitive weaponry that were nonetheless impressive examples of ballistas twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
C7 Aerospace Division's manufacturing arm has finally satisfied the initial Civvie production demand from back in 2017 and has begun to convert some of its build space to Deuce and Dhumla production at both plants in Kravass and Sheltered Rock
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the capsule that flew 2 unkerbed missions will continue to fly & show how they wear over time. No longer needed for testing crew systems, its main hatch is being modified to be opened & closed in space. The ECLSS will be removed for more room to hold experiments & instruments
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've finally sent a kerbal up into space. Here is a timeline overview of the rockets that it took to get us to this point. The next big step is to reach orbit, altho whether that will be with a probe or a capsule still has not yet been decided. Full res: flickr.com/gp/kerbal_spacβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Mobile Launch Platform we revealed back in May now has the funding to begin construction. Since the HAB has no current Genesis/C7 projects, it will host the build. The MLP is expected to be ready by late Sept, so an Ascension Mk2 launch will be no sooner than that
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our next big milestone is coming up with the next launch being our 50th rocket mission! So close to combining that with 1st space flight but at the same time happy to let it have its own recognition. Unsure yet which flight will be 50th - Val's Mk1 or unkerbed Mk1
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today Specialist Bill gets a Hero's Parade through his home cavern of Umbarg in celebration of him being the first kerbal to reach space. His only stipulation was that his three crew-mates could join him. Team effort!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we always enjoy engaging in some witty repertoire with our followers so never hesitate to speak up!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
everyone wish a happy birthday to our founder & Operations Director @DKerman_KSA, who also shares the date with Captain Jebediah! Drew turns 19 while Jebediah, oldest of the crew, is 45. π₯πππ
Jeb's history: ops.kerbalspace.agency
Drew's history: kerbalspace.agency/index.php?pageβ¦
Jeb's history: ops.kerbalspace.agency
Drew's history: kerbalspace.agency/index.php?pageβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the capsule that carried Bill to and from space has arrived back at KSC via airship along with its heat shield. The Air History Museum in Kravass is already trying to buy it from us, but we need to do a complete post-flight examination of it first over the next week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Specialist Bill's full physical examination has been completed with no obvious signs of problems from his short jaunt through space, but doctors still wary and will be going over the data closely before clearing Val for the next flight. Bill will be back at KSC tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the award will also enable us to send Val, next in rotation, to space no earlier than Sept while also sending up another unkerbed Mk1 w/ the older capsule for more testing of Extremis instruments. Not enough tho for another Progeny Mk7-A flight unless KB/Genesis can help w/income
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
CFO Mortimer has announced the Kerbin World Firsts organization released the bounty of 57,000 funds to our account in recognition of our accomplishment this past week of putting a kerbal into space. This is enough to get the Ascension Mk2 off the ground later this year!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Dr. Murstap's rocket sled has been completed in the HAB and awaits completion of the test track next week. Everything is on schedule to begin test runs at the start of August with kerbed runs by Murstap to begin in September if all goes well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
hey @justhereforksa you still there? We thought you had a haiku ready for us when we launched a kerbal into space!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
now that MSV Aldeny is berthed in Sheltered Rock & doesn't have to travel from Umbarg to the recovery area off Ockr, w/o long delays requiring resupply we should have cheaper mission costs. This past mission ran up a bill slightly greater than the usual 6,200 funds MSV rental
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Aldeny has arrived at Sheltered Rock, where Specialist Bill will undergo a full medical evaluation to assess his body's reaction to the brief space flight before returning to KSC this weekend. He maintains feeling no ill effects since the mission
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although he was very busy during his short flight through space thanks to the pitch anomaly, Mission Control did tell Bill when he was passing over the site of our first future surface colony and he was able to stick the camera up to the window for a shot. North is left
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
don't forget to get topside or outside to look at Sarnus as we pass opposition, or closest approach. Even with a small telescope that can be purchased by the average kerb the rings and its two largest moons are easily visible & still a sight to see!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill managed to stay put until the capsule was hauled out of the water. He's back on his feet aboard MSV Aldeny & will shortly set sail for Sheltered Rock, where they will arrive late tomorrow. Everyone here is ready to party the rest of the day away. Celebration time! Ah yea! π₯
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
night falling over the recovery zone, MSV Aldeny has arrived in the area and made direct contact with Bill, instructing him to flip on the capsule's strobe beacon so they can spot him in the growing darkness
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
still adrift waiting for MSV Aldney to arrive Bill says he's getting bored and the boat better hurry up or he's going for a swim.
Jeb: "Bill the water is freezing out there."
Bill: "I'm in a space suit!!"
Jeb: "Bill the water is freezing out there."
Bill: "I'm in a space suit!!"
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill just concluded a radio conversation with the Presider, who congratulated him and all of us on our accomplishment today. It's been a long journey to get here but we've made it and will continue to press on to further and grander frontiers! π π«
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
post-launch operations well underway here @ KSC, pad crew inspecting for any damage while controllers perform initial post-flight analysis to ensure all data is properly collected. Bill continues to float about; he can blow the hatch if capsule takes on water but landing was soft
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ππ KERZZAAAAAH!! ππ welcome back to our first space explorer! Cheers, hugs, high fours, backslaps - the control room has erupted in celebration after the capsule safely splashed down. Still in sight of Ockr relay, we can stay in touch with Bill until MSV Aldeny arrives
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
big grins all around the control room as Bill descends towards the water under a full canopy. He had to endure only just under 6Gs on re-entry. His new landing location puts him about 1.5 hours from MSV Aldeny, which had already gotten underway shortly after launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
"Control this is Ascension - copy you loud & clear! Heard my chutes pop, can you confirm?" Yes we can!! Chutes are pre-deployed & will stay reefed until lower in the atmosphere. Everyone happy & relieved to hear Bill's voice over the speakers. Let's bring him home!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
still under blackout - static crackling through the comms piped into the mission control loud speakers. Could last over a minute with such a shallow re-entry. Jeb will shortly begin to call out for a response from Bill - "Control to Ascension, do you copy?" and we wait......
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill had to override the computer turning off the RCS for re-entry so he could roll the capsule "up" to face away from Kerbin & begin re-entry butt-down. He will disable it again shortly for ballistic re-entry. Expecting plasma blackout any second now
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
coming up on atmo in <1min. Bill says all good tho noise of spacecraft louder than expected, a bit disorienting not being able to hear the thrusters firing like in the sim. He's positioned well tho & should see an even milder re-entry than originally planned, which isn't so bad
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
flight surgeon has been keeping a sharp eye on Bill's vitals & all still looks okay. Bill has been too busy to do much other than fly the capsule (tho he's caught some peeks out the window of course) but he's assured everyone as often as possible he feels no neg effects of zero-G
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill has already passed thru 107.996km apokee. Trajectory analysis shows he should make the water, but even coming down over land he's on course and will miss any high terrain features. If needed the LES tower is still attached & can retrofire to slow final descent after re-entry
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we had a clean capsule sep & pushaway. Bill has found guidance computer still locked into ascent mode & will not accept RCS orientation commands but manual controls responding fine so leaving computer alone. Capsule momentum flipped it retrograde & Bill is holding orientation
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
THERE'S A KERBAL IN SPAAAACE!!! However everyone is too focused on the unforeseen situation to really celebrate at this time - we still have to make sure Bill gets back down safely. We are currently monitoring the capsule separation & RCS thrusters pushing it clear of the lifter
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
31s left to MECO & although rocket pitch-over continues (from momentum not control surfaces) apokee is well outside atmo. Once engine cuts off the mad scramble will begin to determine how the shallow flight affects the downrange trajectory & what measures need to be taken
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have confirmed rocket is shallow on ascent. Pitchover increased shortly after L+1m & did not hold at 48Β°. Apokee still climbing & nearly into space with over a min left of burn. Danger of overheat in atmo negligible due to low throttle. Bill says "keeping calm & thrusting on!"
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill is supersonic, through Max Q. Pitch-over rate is right on the money & on course heading 53Β°. Throttle decreasing steadily to maintain TWR of 1.65. Telemetry looks good & Bill is making regular callouts to assure everyone that what we're seeing is right. All nominal!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ignition sequence was nominal & WE π HAVE π LIFT OFF!! The first kerbed rocket is ascending to carry Specialist Bill up into the black void of space! Rocket will clear the tower in ~3 seconds and then begin to head downrange at nearly full throttle. GO ASCENSION! GO BILL!! πβ¨
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-1m] Jeb has informed Bill "it's pucker time!" as only the seconds continue to tick down on the clock. Final GO/NO GO at T-30s & then everyone will be holding their breaths while the rocket begins the following ignition sequence prior to lift off
Here comes history? Stand by!
Here comes history? Stand by!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-2m] terminal count! Service arm has detached leaving the rocket on internal power and RF comms. AFCS has activated to take command. Controllers checking battery drain rates and comm data rates. Bill has nothing left to do but sit back, confirm readouts & enjoy the ride
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3m] preliminary tank pressurization has begun to allow for extra rigidity once the service arm, now unlocked for release, swings away to leave the rocket standing atop the engine mount. Bill is undergoing final suit integrity checks & switching back to internal life support
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] weather kerbs have unanimously agreed we are GO for launch. All other stations have been re-polled and came back GO. Launch permission has been granted by the OD. Rocket remained primed & ready so countdown has restarted with updated L-0 of 19:58 UTC. FTS internal
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
weather team still debating. Ops Director (OD) @DKerman_KSA has made it clear to them that if they aim to propose a launch at or near minimums they have to be 110% confident. What does Bill think of all this? He's asked Jeb if he can take a quick nap. The request was denied
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[HOLD] L-5m final poll was not successful as the kerbs at the weather desk say they need more time to assess the upper-level wind conditions. While initial constraints are tight to ensure Bill's safety, we do have room to work the numbers based on past Ascension launch experience
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-12m] small tanker truck left hooked up to the service towers has been remotely commanded to begin onload of the nitrogen gas used to pressurize the tanks prior to launch. Stored in a pressurized vessel itself, late onload protects pad workers from any rupture (Bill has LES)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] RSO has ARMED the ignition system and the Flight Termination/Launch Abort System is now also ACTIVE. 500m exclusion zone around the pad is being enforced and any incursion will hold the count. All visitors please remain within designated areas
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] winds picking up with sunrise are within expected margins, surface weather continues to be a GO as we move into final countdown procedures. Range Safety Officer is waiting for the all-clear report from the pad crew as they lock down and evacuate the launch site
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-45m] launch rehearsal time, which will cover the ascent up to MECO & ensure that all assets are configured, ground stations are configured & capsule is configured properly for the mission along with everyone knowing their roles in it. Bill jokes his role is to "just hang on!"
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h30m] weather remains within limits, no "extraneous effects" detectable. Rocket preflight has concluded to the satisfaction of launch controllers, issues board is clear. MSV Tongjess is on station for range tracking setup. Pad crew returning for final close outs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h55m] pad evacuation underway as we move into the engine and fuel system checks. We hope Bill can rely on his "simple-minded"ness to not be bothered by the fact that he's strapped atop 7t of explosives that hopefully won't ignite in an uncontrolled manner
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
"Rolling left. Check?"
"Check"
"Rolling right. Check?"
"Check"
"Pitching up. Check?"
"Check"
....
call/response continues between Bill & the pad crew as he manipulates the manual controls & they confirm movement. Hopefully tho Bill will not have to touch them at all during ascent
"Check"
"Rolling right. Check?"
"Check"
"Pitching up. Check?"
"Check"
....
call/response continues between Bill & the pad crew as he manipulates the manual controls & they confirm movement. Hopefully tho Bill will not have to touch them at all during ascent
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h40m] rocket is now massing nearly 11t after being fully fueled. Pad crew is cleaning up while controllers continue to work with Bill through the preflight checklist. Tank levels will be watched closely to ensure there are no leaks present. Atmospheric pressure remains stable
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h55m] Bill has coordinated with launch controllers and brought the capsule online, fully powered and initialized. Atmospheric pressure levels have remained unchanged. Wernher reports Monolith coolant is operating at full efficiency. Tanking permission has been granted
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h10m] almost back to where we left off last week - rocket mounting completed and weather desk will continue to monitor wind conditions but we have a GO for preflight. Jeb is back in Launch Control. Val ceded her CapCom duties as a gesture to support Bob's own decision
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h20m] capsule is sealed up with Bill snugly inside, Jeb is plugged in to keep him company and the pad crew has begun the process of raising the rocket back to vertical and hooking the service arm back up to the main tank. Photo from earlier prior to boarding
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h50m] pre-launch ops have officially begun with Bill climbing into the capsule. Boarding up to head to the pad some questions were lobbed at him about all the things that could go wrong. His response: "I'm too simple-minded, relatively speaking, to worry much about all that"
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
just Bill exits the Astronaut Complex main entrance for his final press photos and board the crew shuttle to head for the launch pad. Rocket is prepped for crew entry and standing by. Monolith chilldown process has already begun with Wernher on hand to supervise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill is finishing up his choice breakfast after another night's fitful sleep. He says he's changed the menu up each launch day & will stick with the one that gets him up into space. Assistants are prepping the rdy room for suit up while pad crew is heading out to lower the rocket
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-4)
7/24
#2π 08:55:43 π12:42:30
#3π 14:56:34 !!ππ¨βπ!! π18:43:21
#4π 20:57:25
7/25
#1π00:44:12 π 02:58:16
#2π06:45:03
@ KSC (UTC-4)
7/24
#2π 08:55:43 π12:42:30
#3π 14:56:34 !!ππ¨βπ!! π18:43:21
#4π 20:57:25
7/25
#1π00:44:12 π 02:58:16
#2π06:45:03
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
updated forecast for tomorrow shows improved chances of 80% favorable weather, with potentially high surface winds being the only concern. Bill says he's looking forward to no longer being stuck inside. Pre-launch operations will commence at 14:52 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the front stalled out and we have perfect launch weather right now around the previously-planned L-0. Hopefully future space satellites will help us improve models and better predict these weather events. Now we just have to hope tomorrow remains nice as well...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after waiting a day to ensure it was safe, an airship was dispatched to check out any effects of FOE-439(D). No crater was found but evidence of minor flooding in the colony site means it likely hit the water west of the initial entry point. Work will resume in a few days
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new forecast still shows only 40-50% chance of good weather. Hard to tell what an encroaching storm front from the west will do. They can sometimes power right over the mountains and bring down some serious weather on us. To be safe, launch is delayed until tomorrow @ 19:42 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bill got to sleep in a bit since the rocket is already out on the pad and just needs to be lowered for him to board. While he's enjoying his choice breakfast the weather desk is using the extra time as well to put together a new forecast for the launch day cycle
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-4)
7/23
#2π 08:52:19 π12:39:06
#3π 14:53:10 !!ππ¨βπ!! π18:39:57
#4π 20:54:01
7/24
#1π00:40:48 π 02:54:52
#2π06:41:39
@ KSC (UTC-4)
7/23
#2π 08:52:19 π12:39:06
#3π 14:53:10 !!ππ¨βπ!! π18:39:57
#4π 20:54:01
7/24
#1π00:40:48 π 02:54:52
#2π06:41:39
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all re-submitted readiness reports have been reviewed & approved - once again we are π GO FOR LAUNCH π. However we'd like everyone to manage expectations as the current forecast is only 40% favorable. Launch ops will begin at 14:28 UTC if forecast improves
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
FD Lanalye is drilling her A team after ensuring they got rest over the weekend, Bill remains in good health, LE Simon has his crew doing an inspection of the rocket and Head of R&D Wernher von Kerman reports final tests are underway for the new Monolith direct-cooling system
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
in fact, there has been just as much opposition lately as in the past to what we are doing with the Monolith but violent outbreaks like this one back in 2017 have ceased since early 2018. We applaud religious leaders on their work to end such events twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
protesters have been gathered all weekend in the Support Village to picket against the further "desecration" of the Monolith. Extra security is still being deployed but so far all protests have remained peaceful here and in the caverns, where protests are happening as well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new Monolith direct cooling system has been rigged and Wernher's team have begun their testing to see whether or not it will work. We'll know for sure by the end of tomorrow when launch readiness reviews are submitted
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Aldeny has pulled into port at Sheltered Rock to resupply and then head back out tomorrow to once again sit and wait in the recovery zone. Hopefully we will be able to send a capsule their way soon!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
FOE-439(D) entered our SOI earlier today & astronomers have confirmed its trajectory. Surface activity at the colony site is minor still but being pulled out as a precaution. Luckily, the asteroid appears to mass well under the avg 400t for a class D, which can reach megaton mass
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
for visitors this weekend bus tours will still take you out to the launch pad however they will not stop to allow occupants to disembark. You'll still get a drive around the pad perimeter though to get an up close look at the Ascension Mk1!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
TL;DR - original theory of Monolith storm was because Mk6-II broke through the magnetosphere. However the next flight just happened to include kerbal tissue samples for exposure to space. Monolith must have thought we were launching a crewed mission, despite small samples
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch has been rescheduled to 7/23 @ 19:38 UTC while modifications are made over the weekend to the Monolith for even colder conditions. We also have a theory as to why it is behaving the way it is. Full details on our Ops Summary: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9352
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we did another remote startup of the rocket at the end of the previous day cycle w/o Monolith chilldown & still saw no indications of stormy weather attempting to form. Lead Scientist Cheranne and R&D Lead Wernher von Kerman are working their teams overtime to reach a conclusion
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Presider's flotilla is on its way back to Sheltered Rock - he commended us on our procedures for handling the storm yesterday and regrets his busy schedule will not allow him to wait around for the next attempt though he will try to make it back when it happens
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bob has been released from quarantine protocol but Bill remains sequestered - if anything happens to him then it will further delay the launch at least a week while Val & Jeb train on the mission specifics to replace him as primary/backup, even if they start today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after some time to recover from his ordeal yesterday and think things over, Specialist Bob has ceded his spot to Specialist Bill. Bob says he's not ready to get back into that capsule anytime soon and will wait for his rotation to come back around
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
still nothing. Nothing!? What is even going on here? We have a rocket powered up on the pad and no storms are forming, even with the Monolith temple heating back up to outside air temperatures. Until we can figure this out, launch remains delayed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket has been powered on for 20 minutes and weather desk is reporting no change to current conditions. Lead Scientist Cheranne has suggested that we switch off the Monolith A/C and see what happens. Everyone hold on to your butts...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket is remounted. Launch team will commence preflight at 22:00 UTC to give the atmosphere the entire day cycle to recharge from the sun's heat and ensure we can detect another attempt from the Monolith at forming a low-pressure system when the rocket is booted up
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Specialist Bob is out and making his return to the Astronaut Complex for a medical evaluation while the pad crew continues their work to get the rocket back to vertical and re-attached to the service towers
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
weather conditions have improved enough to allow the pad crew to begin the unmounting operation. Rocket will be lowered, Bob will be extracted and then we are going to raise it back up and do an automated start later today to see what happens. Regardless, launch today is scrubbed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no lightning now for nearly 10 minutes and winds have continued to weaken. Val was the perfect person to help Bob calm down; he's been further assuaged by FD Lanalye saying the count will not be continued and the pad crew will be lowering the rocket soon and getting him out
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
doctors report Bob may be having a panic attack but he's not in any physical danger and pad crew should remain sheltered. Storm already appears to be weakening. Given that we've seen much worse prior to the Monolith A/C installation, good to know it seems to be helping somewhat
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
YOWZA!! We just had multiple strikes on the crew service tower, which is currently not attached to the rocket and is also grounded. Bob is telling Val he wants out *NOW* but conditions are too dangerous for an unnecessary emergency egress. Medical team is evaluating his vitals
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the night is pitch black now as overcast skies cover Mun and stars. Pressure has stabilized but rain, high winds and some lightning continues. All visitors have been moved indoors to the VAB, HAB or Astronaut Complex. Flight surgeon says Bob is showing an elevated heart rate
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Presider's motorcade was just departing the Support Village and has been halted since crossing the causeway could be dangerous if the winds continue to get stronger. Pressure drop slowly continues so this is likely. Pad crew is entering the launch bunker. Fuel truck detaching
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
weather desk has informed FD Lanalye the pressure drop began @ rocket power-up but given no such reaction has occurred after the cooling system was installed they were hoping it would stabilize. No such luck it seems. Clouds are starting to build near the pad, winds increasing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[HOLD] Bob has confirmed he's flipped all the switches & pressed all the buttons needed on his end and the capsule is now initialized, lifter rdy for fueling. Tanker is already hooked up to the service tower but we just got a No GO from the weather desk monitoring a slow pressure drop
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
AFCS flight instructions update info can be found here: bit.ly/AFCS_ChangeLog - while Bob will handle a lot of normally automated preflight tasks so he's not sitting around bored, during the actual ascent the flight computer will be in command w/ a few manual emergency controls
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h10m] rocket mounted, launch team briefed, Val back on CapCom, Monolith chilled & weather desk has given an improved forecast of 85% favorable conditions @ launch time. We are GO to begin preflight procedures! Bob says he's doing "A-Okay" - voice quaver likely comm distortion
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
because the rocket will be spending more time in the atmosphere it will be holding a TWR of 1.65 during ascent, which will give Bob a very comfortable ride on the way up as well. This will reduce friction heating but is also necessary to not speed past the landing zone
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h40m] rocket mounting going well, nearing completion while Flight Director Lanalye assembles her A team in launch control for their final briefing on today's mission, which will send Bob downrange at a slightly shallower angle for a lower apokee and gentler re-entry
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Commander Val, working CapCom, is actually down at the launch pad right now plugged straight into the capsule so she can keep in touch with Bob during mounting operations and alert the pad crew if anything appears to be going wrong from inside the capsule
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h20m] crew load was without issue. Although the capsule orientation makes it a bit awkward, lots of training helped. Bob is now situated and his suit life support will remain on internal capsule power until the rocket is mounted and service tower umbilical arm is connected
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h50m] Specialist Bob is ready to begin ingress procedures. He will be assisted into the capsule by the pad crew and then strapped down. The hatch will then be sealed in preparation for the mounting of the rocket
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
crew photo outside the rear of the Astronaut Complex as Bob boards the crew shuttle out to the pad. Bill will head back inside to the ready room and stand by in case he is needed. Rocket carry vehicle is nearing the pad and will position itself for the vertical lift
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5h10m] pre-launch operations have begun as the carry vehicle leaves the VAB with the Mk1 strapped atop, making its way slowly to the pad 655m away over the next 10 minutes. Meanwhile, crew is completing suit up in the Astronaut Complex. Expect updates at these milestones
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
several hours to go until the start of prelaunch ops but Bob & Bill have already awoken to eat their choice meal before beginning the process of getting suited up for flight. Bill says he slept soundly and Bob admits he had trouble getting to sleep but feels okay
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-4)
7/18
#2π 08:35:19 π12:22:06
#3π 14:36:10 !!ππ¨βπ!!
#3π18:22:57
#4π 20:37:01
7/19
#1π00:23:48 π 02:37:52
#2π06:24:39
@ KSC (UTC-4)
7/18
#2π 08:35:19 π12:22:06
#3π 14:36:10 !!ππ¨βπ!!
#3π18:22:57
#4π 20:37:01
7/19
#1π00:23:48 π 02:37:52
#2π06:24:39
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all readiness reports have been submitted, reviewed and approved by @DKerman_KSA - which means we are π GO FOR LAUNCH! π launch pad has been reconfigured and is ready to receive the rocket AND CREW tomorrow after rollout. Pre-launch ops begin @ 14:11 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
doctors report both Bob & Bill are in good health and spirits. Both will be equally prepared for tomorrow's launch all the way up to L-0. If we need to swap out the capsule crew for any reason, even after its been buttoned up, Bill will be suited up and ready to go
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the ASA report on the Dhumla crash back in May has been released & we've summarized the findings here: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9339 TL;DR - pilot error was the sole cause. Aldeny was responsible but not without redemption. New Dhumla will be built for further development under C7 only
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our new recovery vessel MSV Aldeny has left port in Umbarg to sail out to the recovery zone for tomorrow's mission. Having our own vessel has the potential to reduce mission costs since we no longer have to pay 4,500-6,200 funds to rent one from the Maritime Service fleet
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Support Village lodging is already at capacity due to the Presider's presence requiring a security buffer and Monolith pilgrims looking to get in a visit before the temple is shut down prior to launch day. Anyone attending the launch viewing should plan to arrive on the day of
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've added a new visual aid to the streaming telemetry that will notify you when data is outside expected values but within predetermined tolerance (yellow flashes) or outside expected values like WTF oh noes (red flashes). You can check it out here: kerbalspace.agency/Tracker/trackeβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
for security reasons we were not allowed to announce earlier that the Presider will be in attendance for this launch, but his flotilla just arrived and docked near the Support Village. We are honored by his presence & acknowledgement of our accomplishments to get to this point!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
meanwhile Jeb & Val have remained involved in this mission by taking turns in training with launch team A stationed at Capsule Communications. Sticking to the crew rotation, Val will be primary on CapCom with Jeb as backup operator if she needs to be relieved
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
medical staff are doing checks on Bob & Bill every day, enforcing a strict diet of meals they dictate, but allowing them to sleep as they feel they need to. All this sets a baseline to help begin to determine what affects spaceflight has on an astronaut after returning to Kerbin
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
flight analysis is published for last week's Progeny Mk6-II mission and coupled with data from the dayside launch we have our first rough approximation of the true shape of the belts! Full details: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9336
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although they can't run sims while stuck in quarantine, Bob and Bill have plenty of written manuals and procedures to review. Of course, they could also be relaxing and binging all the movies & TV shows they didn't have time to watch while training...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
last week the capsule was stacked & the rocket is now undergoing final close out checks in the VAB. This flight uses a brand-new capsule. The 1st one is being used for the deceleration testing and the 2nd one that's flown to space twice will be used for further unkerbed missions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
#OTD back in 2017 we were still recovering from the massive outburst unleashed by the Monolith after first reaching space. You can read about it all here: kerbalspace.agency/?p=4567 - the Monolith continues its battle to keep us planetside to this day
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
so because the data rate isn't as fast as the rocket was wobbling, sometimes this can create misleading results in rapidly oscillating values. Think of wave motions becoming additive at the right frequencies - the rocket's wobble frequency was just right to create this effect!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
so what was up with the Mk6-II AoA telemetry? Well, the rocket was indeed oscillating between positive and negative AoA as it wobbled a bit on its way up to space. It just so happened several times to wobble back neg/pos every second the Ops Tracker updated
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after the revelatory Neidon image, astronomers have been eagerly awaiting the latest Urlum photo from the 10m scope and are surprised to find it is much closer to the featureless orb they expected of Neidon, with what appear to be ice clouds mostly present (img enlarged 1000x)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today Bob & Bill have both gone into quarantine in the Astronaut Complex, where they will remain away from each other & everyone but medical teams until the mission next week. This is not only to reduce exposure but allow them time to rest from their rigorous training schedule
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
so, anyone who watched the telemetry from the Mk6-II rocket flight this week notice something weird in the AoA? If the rocket was spinning and isn't guided, how is the nose being held off prograde for relatively long periods of time? Any guesses? Answer at the end of the weekend
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
at this time there are no direct threats to the astronauts but we have had to cancel a few media events outside of KSC over the past month. It's disappointing to see some kerbs that don't want us to succeed in our quest to explore the Kerbol system and beyond
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are bringing in extra security after Monolithic graffiti was found scrawled on the side of the VAB, likely overnight by a religious follower or few who snuck over from the temple to the north. We've been dealing with various protests ever since the kerbed mission was announced
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although they flew 11km farther along their route than Ted & Aldy on their last Deuce mission, which is the current record-holder for Longest Continuous Flight Time, Jeb & Val failed to set a new one. Whether or not they did this on purpose they refuse to say
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
another image from yesterday's flight, lower to the ground as the Deuce investigates one of the beaches on the west side of the island where the months-long future scientific expedition may land to begin exploring what has evolved here in isolation since the asteroid impact
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
famous for her tight pattern approaches, Val did not disappoint although Jeb says he was afraid she would run out of runway. Aircraft is taxiing back to the HAB. Here's one of their many photos taken, from ~6km on their initial fly over of the island (we said it was big!)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Deuce is entering the traffic pattern to land turf Rwy09 after Val hugged the coast similar to their route out in order to avoid having to deal with as much terrain as possible, although a nearly full Mun is out to help provide some extra illumination
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb has hailed us as they come within sight of Umbarg. All is well, good flight there and back with no troubles other than some minor turbulence. Val will begin descent shortly. Coming back at night with plenty of stars for position fixes allowed a more direct route
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
L-7 DAYS UNTIL WE LAUNCH A KERBAL INTO SPACE! This is Bob & Bill's final week for training and they have been training hard. Even when they do something right, they do it right again. And again. Danger is inevitable, risk mitigation is key. Prepare for everything & anything
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
assuming all is well, by now the Deuce should be over its target - the most-remote largest island on Kerbin. They will have step-climbed to 5.5km & will do a high-alt pass over the island before dropping low for better images of these potential maritime expedition landing sites
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've lost the aircraft over the horizon, Val got final course heading from flight control before signing off. Minmus will set in a short while and then they will only have the sun to use for resetting their INS, so they won't be able to make a very direct flight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
cruising SW along the coast @ 4.5km, peering through the morning haze you can barely see the still-visible scar of the asteroid impact in 2018 that so far has come the closest to directly affecting operations at KSC. You can read about it in this timeline: twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good standard departure along runway heading to 800m then turning on course, gear up, wings clean, throttle reduced to cruise altho they are still climbing - no rush to level off at 4.5km. Passing through 1.5km now the crew gets an early sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
aircraft is lining up on the turf runway 09 after crossing the paved runway ahead of the rocket sled test track, which is currently nearing 1km long and will span the entire 2km runway length by the end of the month. Winds calm - clear for takeoff!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
they make a good team - Cpt Jeb & Cdr Val are prepping to depart just after 3rd sunrise on their Deuce mission to bit.ly/Sector_IS-L031, where they'll be scouting out potential landing sites for a future expedition by MSV as well as any interesting inland features
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
yesterday's mission set some new bit.ly/KSARecords - greatest altitude over Kerbin is now 4,349.35km and the longest mission distance traveled is 9,257.860km - the measurement was made up to the projected point of atmospheric interface
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our 3rd new K2-X engine has arrived, completing the order we placed back in Feb. It is earmarked for the first Ascension Mk2 flight and will be static fired next month when our new test stand completes construction since its flight tank won't be here by then
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
They are obligated to return it via provisions we already have in place with any registered surface exploration teams however there have been unregistered excursions caught in the past. Still, quite a needle in a haystack we arenβt too concerned about it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
actually the last thing it would have done before completely losing power given its situation is arm chutes, which will deploy based on pressure regardless of power. Still, if it survives we have no plans to recover it. Fare thee well brave space traveler! You did a mighty job π₯
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
\[0o]/ \[0o]/ \[0o]/ More celebration as with just 0.85% power remaining the rocket left the inner belt, giving us a full reading on its size! It went back into hibernation & pinged us 3 more times before it fell below the horizon prior to re-entry. And that's the end of that
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KERZZAH!! Fist pumps and whoops filled mission control as a 27m dish at Arekibo locked onto the signal just over the horizon & *current* telemetry came streaming down w/data dump. Rocket is passing through the inner belt with just ~4% battery power - only a few mins worth!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
control room filling back up as everyone anticipates AOS in ~15 minutes - maybe sooner, maybe later. Even if power nearly drained, fail-safes would keep enough left to attempt a final dump once back in range, so question is how much data it managed to collect if that happened
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
majority of estimates agree that by now or at least shortly the rocket should again be passing through the outer belt, lower than on its way up since it is unlikely we managed to bisect it perfectly. Past data shows its radiation to be ~75% weaker than the inner belt
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
whether or not we will have enough battery to last the entire flight, or at least back down through both radiation belts, is impossible to determine. The computer will stay on and collect data through the entire outer belt up & down - we have no idea how big it is on night side
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket has by now passed through apokee and begun the nearly 2hr fall back towards Kerbin. Although it's only halfway through its journey we calculate it's likely already more than halfway through its battery reserves
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Scientist Cheranne has started up a betting pool. Some of her team have been using the last data sent before losing contact in conjunction with earlier data from the dayside to estimate where the outer belt starts/ends on the night side. Closest guess wins the pot!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
post-launch cleanup proceeding well. Launch base will be removed back to storage in the Support Village and thankfully none of the Mk1-B boosters got tossed back into the service structures this time and all four landed several hundred meters downrange
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have just lost contact with the rocket as it was exiting the inner belt. It is now on its own, continuing the journey towards the outer belt and definitely beyond - into unknown space! Highly unlikely that it will exit the magnetotail but we don't know for sure
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the first telemetry ping from coming out of hibernation was a minute late but since then every 30s we have been getting a data packet as expected. Due to the higher than planned apokee, the decision to change from 60s last mission may turn out to have been a poor one
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
BECO-3 has left the rocket coasting to an apokee of 4,351km - everyone is shocked given the last flight carrying a similar load only made it up to just over 3Mm. It will take about 1h45m to reach apokee & unplanned extra height has controllers a bit concerned about battery power
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
BLAST OFF!! Really the best term to describe the 5 engines igniting to push the rocket off the pad with a combined force of 135kN for just over 7Gs of acceleration. Radial boosters will detach within just 6 seconds while the core booster burns for 34s
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we just realized there may be some confusion about the presence of aircraft if anyone remembers this tweet from a previous launch. The 25/50km exclusion refers to a downrange cone, not a circular zone around the entire launch pad twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lymun reports 2 Civvies & a Deuce are circling 5km to the west. All pilots are following established air protocol. We don't usually get air traffic to view a launch since our rockets are still small & the aircraft are held far out but it's night, they should see the rocket plumes
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] rocket is ARMED, Flight Termination System is ACTIVE - range and pad are closed to any incursions. Anything within the red zone will halt the countdown and invalidate the current L-0 time. All visitors please stay within designated viewing areas
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] everything remains a GO and teams are progressing into final countdown procedures. Pad crew is completely clearing out, RSO is running final checks of the range and rocket prior to firing system arming. Photo from earlier at sunset
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h30m] FD Lanalye reports we have a good rocket, all system checks nominal. Pad crew has returned for final closeouts while the Range Safety Officer begins to setup monitoring with MSV Lymun. We have no recovery ship stationed, even if the rocket was coming down over water
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h12m] rocket is initialized and pad crew has been given the GO to begin tanking, onloading 220kg of liquid propellants to the third stage. Although the single fuel truck is now used like for the Mk7, it still has to hook directly to the launch base & vehicle for the Mk6
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h27m] weather desk has come back with a forecast update of 95% favorable - as usual we can't predict upper-level atmospheric conditions but surface conditions should be perfect. Monolith temple is chilled and the rocket is being powered up to receive flight instructions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-4)
7/9
#2π 08:04:23 π11:51:30 !!π!!
#3π 14:05:14 π17:52:21
#4π 20:06:05 π23:53:12
7/10
#1π 02:06:56 π05:54:03
@ KSC (UTC-4)
7/9
#2π 08:04:23 π11:51:30 !!π!!
#3π 14:05:14 π17:52:21
#4π 20:06:05 π23:53:12
7/10
#1π 02:06:56 π05:54:03
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all readiness reports have been submitted, reviewed & approved! Operations Director @DKerman_KSA says we are πGO FOR LAUNCHπ tomorrow - prelaunch operations will begin at 12:03 UTC, wx 90% favorable. Only the engine support collar was removed to make way for the Mk6 launch base
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VEO-520(C) has made its entry into our SOI within the past few minutes and will be scooting "underneath" us at no closer than 1.01 Munar Distance - If Mun had been in the right place... wait, no - improper inclination. There are many factors to positions in space!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
common belief among astronomers until now was since Neidon is so far from the sun, its surface would be relatively featureless without enough heat to drive a turbulent atmosphere. The outer gas giants could be way more interesting than previously imagined
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we passed opposition with Neidon this week and the 10m scope at ATN Central took a good long look to give us the best photo of this world to date. A gas giant like Jool & Sarnus, it too is now confirmed to have visible cloud patterns in its swirly atmosphere
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
integration is complete for bit.ly/ProgenyMk6-II_3, now loaded up on the carry vehicle for rollout Monday ahead of readiness prep at KSC for launch attempt on Tuesday. Viewing tickets are on sale - don't forget it's going to be the first Mk6-II night launch!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
DTH-989(C) is now within our SOI and will be zipping past us at just 0.06 Munar Distance, the closest known pass so far this month although the closest known pass this year remains 453km (0.04 MD) back in Feb
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Val & Jeb, later in the crew rotation for Ascension, will be taking a break from their astronaut training to fly a Deuce mission for bit.ly/GenesisProgram this month. Both pilots look forward to being back in a craft they can fully control
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the comet has indeed been located, not quite where astronomers expected it to be but within a respectable margin of error. This bodes well for future deep space missions that will rely on Jool for gravitational assists that will fly much closer to the massive planet
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
TL;DR - rocket needs to get higher up before 3rd stage kicks in. Excellent performance by the new guidance fins. Not so excellent performance by the guidance computer (similar to Ascension). Funds to build the next Mk7-A are currently lacking, Ascension takes precedence
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
given that it only had a powered flight of 40 seconds a lot of effort had to go into figuring out what went wrong with the first Progeny Mk7-A mission. Luckily, past experience helped a great deal. Full report: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9294
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after the Progeny Mk6-II was stacked vertically once again in the VAB at the start of this week, Lead Engineer Simon has reported the new decoupler is holding well and they will continue to push for the new launch date next week 7/9 @ 16:30 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the current Presider is running for a second term - he has neither interfered nor directly supported us but has acknowledged our potential for the advancement of kerbal society several times. A third candidate has been for some reason dodgy when asked about us
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
campaigns are ramping up towards this year's election for a new Presider in December - we are not directly controlled by the political machine however the government can make things difficult for us if they wanted. One of the candidates is heavily tied to Monolithic interests
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Specialist Bob and his backup Specialist Bill have been working even more closely with Flight Director Lanalye's launch team A in rehearsals leading up to the kerbed mission later this month, while controllers on her launch team B also train for the Mk6 Block II mission
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've received the Dhumla flight data recorder from the ASA as they begin to conclude their investigation. Genesis program will analyze its contents however we will not be releasing our own report and continue to wait for the official ASA accident investigation report
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
currently the Extremis team has put aside for now the multiple Grand Tour ambitions but are keeping their extra-planetary focus by helping the Ascension team figure out how well their Mk2 rocket is capable of executing individual missions to Minmus, Mun, Eve and Duna
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
just a few selections from our Around KSC album on flickr. Have a photo tour of our facilities and their changes over the years at flic.kr/s/aHskpNratG
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
results from this week's static fire have confirmed the engine is ready. We now have a date to LAUNCH THE FIRST KERBAL INTO SPACE!! L-0 scheduled for 7/18 @ 19:21 UTC and aboard the rocket will be Specialist Bob. Get hype! π ops.kerbalspace.agency #KSPloring @KerbalSpaceP
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
USJ-657(C) entered our SOI yesterday & astronomers have confirmed its trajectory into our atmosphere. This is yet another red blip on yesterday's map of encounters that could have affected us had Kerbin's rotation been different
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
despite having only Jeb & Val to fly Genesis missions on limited availability, CFO Mortimer is still trying to land contracts. It's harder now tho as part of the C7/Airship agreement was we no longer hold an exclusive commercial license. The bidding wars have begun
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
thanks to a generous donor, we now have our own MSV! It's an old hull, but will serve well as a recovery vessel after some retrofits to the stern to haul capsule aboard. It has been designated the MSV Aldeny & will be training to recover the first kerbed Ascension mission in July
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
currently only two other surface settlements other than us are also in danger of this risk. We have no doubt more surface settlements will come about and we hope to someday have the capability to be able to prevent any asteroid disasters from befalling them or us
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the image does not take into account any asteroids we didn't know about that landed in the water or burned up in the atmosphere and weren't picked up by seismic sensors, which is probably about at least half more as many that are shown
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSC is always under threat from asteroids and so far we have simply been lucky Kerbin wasn't facing the right direction for any more than one of these entries to have fallen nearer to us to cause possible damage or affect operations since they began back in late 2016
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
FD Lanalye & her team today conducted a successful static fire of the lifter core that will power the next Ascension Mk1 flight set to carry Specialist Bob into space next month. Test data still has yet to be fully analyzed and verified however
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
construction of the new airport has finally been allowed to move forward again at the Kongo River Research Station. Originally planned for completion no later than April, the new target is August or September
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the second of three new K2-X engines has arrived as NovaPunch works to close out the order we placed back in Feb & then get started on last month's order, which will see 3 more engines delivered to us Sept-Nov. So potentially 6 more Ascension flights this year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch video showing the support arms folding away 5s prior to launch. If they aren't down and locked by T-1s the flight computer will abort the launch on the assumption that one has gotten stuck in the way of the rocket youtube.com/watch?v=9x8MJLβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rough day! This isn't the first time we've had a new rocket design fail on us though - we must push beyond the limits to find them. Post-flight analysis will help refine the Mk7 design for future launches to have a greater chance at success
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
unfortunately but also unsurprisingly no trace of the rocket has been found. It impacted the water at 156m/s according to the last packet of telemetry data we received. All debris and spent stages landed safely in the predesignated downrange fallout zone
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good initial chute deployment was confirmed by the tracking camera however the chute failed to fully open fast enough to slow the payload down before it crashed into the Kerblantic just 7.8km downrange. MSV Tongjess is moving in to see if anything survived the impact
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
what remains of the rocket is about to pass through apokee after a breakup following 3rd stage ignition. We are still getting telemetry data so probe core is functioning, has detected the anomaly and should arm chute - if not controllers are standing by
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
LIFT OFF!! Rocket has shot off into the blue with the lower booster pumping out 67kN of thrust for just under 4TWR. It will cut out and detach for the second stage to ignite after 34 seconds. Lower guidance fins will orient the rocket to 54Β° and begin pitch over
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] we are within launch commit for upper-level conditions! Final general readiness polls are all GO! Launch permission has been granted by @DKerman_KSA. All eyes are glued to monitors as the remaining minutes tick down to seconds. Nervousness fades. Anticipation builds
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h20m] weather balloon has been released. First flight of a new rocket means we have very strict constraints on conditions in the upper atmosphere. If any hold is called it's most likely because of this. Be nice to us today, @upperlevelwinds!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h30m] smoooooth preflight! Rocket is all set to go, now to finish up external tasks like securing the pad, recovery and range. Range Safety Officer is in touch with MSV Tongjess offshore and launch team is patched through to MSV Hoodall through Ockr relay
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although Lanalye requested the ability to run vector checks on the Ospray, Simon had to deny that & just do extensive testing during integration since the interstage shroud could not be made thin enough to support the third stage and allow for movement of the engine inside
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new rocket means a lot of new and old visitors coming out to see its first flight. Please stay within your designated areas & obey the instructions of KSC employees in the event of an emergency. Just because we point a rocket away from you doesn't mean that's where it's going
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h10m] Monolith is chilled, weather is good, team is briefed and we are GO to begin preflight! Pad crew is heading out to prep for fueling while controllers wake up the rocket to onload flight instructions and configure systems ops.kerbalspace.agency
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the flight was designed with very general drag calculations given lack of flight data for the Mk7 so we expect the rocket to under perform more than we would expect of the Ascension Mk1, but it should still make it to the ocean east of Ockr
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
in addition to checking out the steering and guidance of the Mk7 we'll be using this flight to test a trajectory that could give a more comfortable ride to Ascension astronauts
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h40m] weather desk has all the reports they need to put together a more accurate launch forecast while Flight Director Lanalye assembles her team for a final briefing, which as you can see today's flight will closely mimic that of the Ascension Mk1
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-4)
6/24
#2π 07:10:03 π11:00:32
#3π 13:10:54 !!π!! π17:01:23
#4π 19:11:45 π23:02:14
6/25
#1π 01:12:36 π05:03:05
@ KSC (UTC-4)
6/24
#2π 07:10:03 π11:00:32
#3π 13:10:54 !!π!! π17:01:23
#4π 19:11:45 π23:02:14
6/25
#1π 01:12:36 π05:03:05
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Flight Director Lanalye got the time she wanted to give the rocket a full systems checkout and reports it is healthy and ready for flight. Ops Dir @DKerman_KSA has reviewed all readiness reports & given approval for launch next week - π GO PROGENY! π ops.kerbalspace.agency
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ockr relay has been patched up in a timely manner & will be monitored all weekend to ensure that transmission is solid. Now that we have the ability to steer Progeny rockets, we'd like to stay in touch with them all through the mission like we can for Ascension
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
more launch delays as Lead Engineer Simon reports the Progeny Mk6 Block II did not pass load checks and they will need to order, install and re-check a new decoupler for the first/second interstage. Launch has been rescheduled for 7/9 @ 16:30 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the sled track will be built along the entire 2.2km length of the paved runway, closing it to flight operations. The Deuce & Civvie however can both land and depart from the turf runways if needed (dotted outline) - Also, new chart ASA-002-R2 has the main runway marked paved now
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
final rocket sled and track design has been approved after Lead Engineer Simon worked to integrate the capsule into the sled. Dr. Murstap himself has volunteered to do the runs once the track is built (in July) and tested (in August)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Val got a bad sprain today during the astronaut's regular training run. It would not have prevented her from flying but does raise the question - what happens if an astronaut is injured in mission training or becomes sick? The next crew member in the rotation is their backup
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Progeny Mk6 Block II that was scheduled to launch on 6/25 is now being bumped to 6/27 @ 15:49 UTC to give time for the launch pad to be turned around since the engine support collar will need to be removed for the Mk6 launch base prior to rollout on 6/26
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Progeny MK7-A launch has been delayed until next week, but not by FD Lanalye - Ockr relay antenna is not testing well & it will take at least 3 days to work out the issue due to its high and remote location. New L-0 set for 6/24 @ 18:30 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the next Progeny Mk6 Block II scheduled to launch on 6/25 is now vertical in the VAB after a routine assembly process. Although an old photo, we do actually have a new Ascension tank and engine in the VAB now as well undergoing inspections
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
not everyone has given up the search, but even the area the plane was thought to have been found in hasn't been fully covered and expanding the search to an even wider area only means more time will be needed to uncover any possible signs of wreckage
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the missing Deuce aircraft remains an aviation mystery - no trace has been found. The best theory accepted by most is the crew got lost, ran out of fuel and crashed. So it could be way, way out of the search area where it had planned to fly
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Progeny Mk7-A is on the way to the launch pad! Although it seems small on this carry vehicle usually used by Ascension rockets (later Mk7 versions will be bigger) the way it is mounted on the launch pad requires its use so it can be lifted up vertical over the engine clamp
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new orbital data has been posted for bit.ly/Vieras - now 3 encounters into the prediction made back in Feb astronomers have already noted a deviation with this recent encounter occurring 34s later than expected. Details in the updated vessel information
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
construction wrapped up today at the launch pad for the new crew access tower and service arms. Thanks to a modular design the large pieces had already been assembled off-site and airshipped in for placement. We are now ready to support 5 different rockets on one pad!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new orbital data has been posted for bit.ly/_Alaba - this was the first encounter of the new 5-encounter prediction made last month and was accurate to the second, as is the next encounter set for 6/23
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the annual symposium of the Kerbal Astronomical Society was held in Kravass over this weekend. Asteroids was a big topic last year, still of concern this year but larger focus was on planetary science as guidelines for proposals for space missions were hashed out. Exciting!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
near the end of today Vieras will perform its 5th known Mun encounter, taking 1h16m to pass through Mun's SOI with a perimun of 1.2Mm. Again over Kerbin's daylit side, Arekibo will partially track it before it's lost over the north pole & picked up again tomorrow by normal scopes
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
now at 1.6Mm perimun, Alaba is halfway through its 21st recorded Mun encounter. Over Kerbin's daylit side, it's within sight of Arekibo's radar for tracking. ATN Central will pick it up as it exits Mun's SOI after a 55min transit to confirm the new orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mk7-A was brought back down to horizontal but this time as a fully assembled rocket to begin final checkouts. Not actually carrying a real payload, VAB teams are just focusing on the overall assembly to make sure everything was done properly on this first attempt
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today marks our 6th revolution around Kerbol since the founding of the Kerbal Space Agency! π₯ Here's a look back at some of what we managed to get done in our 1st revolution. Look backwards in the album for more flickr.com/photos/kerbal_β¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
due to the lull in flight operations and us needing the funds, we've auctioned off 2 of our 3 Civvie aircraft. They each found new homes with owners who already had one, but couldn't pass up the chance to own another that had flown missions for the KSA
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-altitude KerBalloon crew have returned after another successful mission. Here's a release photo from the seemingly endless grassy plains to the north, except for the spire of a lonely mountain in the far distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today was another big step towards kerbed space flight and we are only just a bit off the pace we set ourselves on just over a year ago. It's not surprising though that space flight is more complicated than we expected twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
additional big news from the report is that we have agreed to fund Dr. Murstap's deceleration research in conjunction with C7 Aerospace Division to not only benefit space flight but also design safer aircraft in the event of accidents. Two words: ROCKET SLED!!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
flight analysis for the last Ascension Mk1 mission has been posted: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9214 - we continue to remain on track to launch a kerbal into space in July. Final major hurdle is the engine test towards the end of this month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
going vertical in the VAB this week, bit.ly/ProgenyMk7-A1 is making steady progress towards launch later this month. Lead Engineer Simon reports there were no issues integrating all the new parts & they can probably cut a week off their next build
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronauts took turns today sealed in the capsule with no power (except life support to their suits) as a stress test. Surprisingly Bill lasted the longest, then in order of decreasing time came Jeb, Val and Bob
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the first of our new K2-X engines has arrived - this is the one that could carry a kerbal into space. Because we still have no test stand, the engine will be integrated with its flight tank and static fired out on the launchpad after the 6/20 Progeny Mk7-A flight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tedman was not in command of the flight at the time of the crash but that does not necessarily clear him of any wrongdoing. Investigators have now concluded their crew/witness interviews but are still carefully examining the aircraft itself for any attributing problems
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ASA was finally able to interview FO Tedman as part of their ongoing crash investigation, the delay due not only to his physical state but also his mental one. He has been receiving counseling and continues to healthily process the event and all the "what if"s
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
next Ascension launch will be the last of the original Mk1 lifters built in 2018. New ones that have been ordered will be built with lighter fins & control surfaces now that we better understand the stress on the rocket during ascent, adding more than 150kg to payload capacity
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronauts have been running new sims now that they have actual data to work against in the control of the capsule while the LES tower is attached. The added mass makes a big difference in capsule motion and they need to be well trained both with & without it present
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
medical doctor Murstap Kerman has been trying to get his research fully funded for a few years - he's been trying to convince the medical community that extreme G loads over short periods can be withstood but no one has really cared or not until now!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ongoing analysis of the last Ascension Mk1 flight still shows re-entry in excess of 16Gs. We either have to fly a lower arc or prove a kerbal can indeed withstand that force without serious effects. We're looking into the latter option, mainly because someone already wants to
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
high-altitude KerBalloon team returned to port late last night from their expedition across the sea. They too had a mountainous payload recovery but had no issues. Here's a release photo from Saturday near 2nd sunset. You can barely make out the MSV in the lake ~600m below
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bluedog Design Bureau has agreed to fund a Progeny Mk6 Block II mission in conjunction with DMagic Orbital Sciences! Everyone's excited to get another chance to launch our most-powerful rocket. launch date is 6/25 @ 16:00 UTC. Mission details: ops.kerbalspace.agency
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
RIP Flight Officer Aldeny, as today we recognize what would have been his 1yr anniversary with the KSA. FO Tedman is also no longer with us currently although he's committed himself to getting back to a normalish life at some point & we wish him the best twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
official search and rescue efforts were suspended today, making this the first ever aviation disappearance - no airship/craft as ever gone unaccounted for. Some private pilots have pledged to continue the search - which is entirely over land so the crash site must be *somewhere*
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Deuce aircraft from SRG out on a pleasure cruise earlier this week was reported overdue for arrival at KGA according to its filed flight plan. Rescue airships were dispatched into the general area it should have flown through but no trace of the aircraft was found
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the MLP can support the rocket unfueled - it will be strutted to the platform while moving. Once at the launch pad the service towers will be attached, the struts removed, and the engine support collar will be installed to help hold the full weight when fueled
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
you've seen the rocket, you've seen the service structures, you've seen the new boosters, now time to see it all together with the Mobile Launch Platform! This will be our first vehicle to move a rocket to the launch pad vertically from the VAB
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tedman was moved to the outpatient ward today. Doctors have repaired all they can & say it's now up to him - they expect he could possibly fly again one day if he commits himself fully to physical therapy but they can't be sure. Tedman says he will though and we believe him!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with no launches until the Progeny Mk7-A towards the end of next month, work has begun out on the launch pad to erect the crew access tower and reconfigure the service towers to prepare to launch an Ascension Mk2 in July
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
research ship has departed Umbarg with our high-altitude KerBalloon team aboard so they can release a balloon over bit.ly/Sector_HA-K64. They've packed along the UTVs that got back yesterday so they can recover the payload over land
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-altitude KerBalloon team have rolled back into KSC, minus their one crew member who is recovering well in Umbarg. They admit that the payload really wasn't in that bad of a spot - just goes to show that even the simple tasks can get you sometimes
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
an airship flying from Sheltered Rock to Umbarg responded to a distress beacon from our low-altitude KerBalloon team. A crew member needed a medevac for injuries sustained in a fall from a cliff while recovering the payload - thankfully not life-threatening
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
also congrats to the low-altitude KerBallon team on their 50th balloon release!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
earlier today during launch prep we got a short connection to the low-altitude KerBalloon as it reached maximum altitude and drifted just barely within sight of KSC. Good to know the crew had a nominal release. They should be back tomorrow after recovering it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we lost signal just before splashdown but have data confirmation relayed via Hoodall the capsule is safely afloat in the water and they are moving in to begin recovery operations. β¨π KERZZAH!! πβ¨
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
chute deploy confirmed! Hoodall has spotted the capsule and is coming to a halt to hold position and ensure they are clear of any debris (lift stage coming in nearby in addition to the LES tower)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
coming up on atmospheric interface in about 1 minute, capsule remains properly oriented for re-entry and all systems are nominal. Hoodall is still underway but is already within visual range of the new splashdown location
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
controllers had the time and cold gas reserves to take manual control of the capsule to point it retrograde. It was rolled "up" then maneuvered to the desired orientation without any issues. It is now back under computer control to hold retrograde until re-entry
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
through apokee now and capsule has successfully oriented along all vectors. It's slower than before thanks to the LES tower but ascent steering is also not fighting for control this time. Just under half of cold gas capacity has been used up so far
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Hoodall is repositioning for recovery as capsule will be coming down ~20km short of its intended landing site, but still over water. We're about 4 minutes from apokee & capsule orientation commands are still underway
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
capsule separation was good & RCS thrusters fired for 10s to push it away from the lifter stage so it has room to maneuver. Controllers are sending it orientation commands while trajectory analysis is underway to see how the lower apokee affects the capsule return
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MECO several seconds early, rocket coasted out of the atmosphere and we are now standing by for confirmation of capsule separation. As expected, we came up short of our target apokee - capsule will fly up to only 485km. That's a larger discrepancy than we hoped for though
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
nominal ascent so far. Just passing Mach 2 now, velocity 630m/s, altitude approaching 16km. Some transonic rollshake noticeable but guidance remains on target. Just under one minute left of fuel and then we'll be coasting through spaaaaaaace
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
main engine start was nominal, throttle up to TWR of 1.2 achieved and lift off occurred right on time. Rocket will shortly clear the tower and begin to roll before pitching downrange - this is the first time we are rolling the rocket off the pad in prep for the Mk2, which has a fixed launch orientation
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-2m] back in the terminal countdown, AFCS has commanded the service arms to swing away and leave the rocket to its own internal resources. Battery drain and RF comms check underway - capsule telemetry should remain solid this time around
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] we are GO from all stations to continue the final count! Weather desk came back green on upper-level turbulence after some consultation with the engineers. FTS is on internal power, service arms are again unlocked for retraction, AFCS standing by
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
capsule is being sealed back up. Weather team had some concerns about upper-level turbulence & released their backup balloon shortly after the hold was called - countdown will pick back up at L-15min @ 18:15 UTC to ensure balloon has enough time to reach altitude
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
problem resolved - a wire harness was not fully plugged in & shook completely loose upon service arm retraction, which does jostle the rocket a bit. Now waiting for a battery swap to complete, since capsule has just enough EC for a mission that launches on time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
countdown has been rolled back to L-15m & crew are preparing to enter the capsule by climbing the service tower, walking out atop the upper arm, hooking onto the LES tower & swinging around to the hatch. It's a procedure already in place for medical emergency pad egress
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
FD Lanalye reports that this won't be a quick fix - it has to be a loose cable inside the capsule. Controllers are backing off from launch readiness and prepping the rocket to be disarmed, hooked back up and depressurized. We still hope to launch before nightfall though
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[HOLD] countdown was stopped shortly after terminal count when part of the telemetry from within the capsule was lost. That data is vital to this mission and needs to be brought back up. Team is working the problem - rocket remains on standby
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-2m] terminal countdown has begun! Service tower arms have swung away from the rocket, no longer supplying power so batteries have switched on. Landline comms also cut so RF comms being checked for good signal. AFCS has control of the countdown
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] Final readiness polls complete: Wx: GO; Range: GO; Flight: GO; Tracking Station: GO; Downrange Tracking: GO; Ops Director @DKerman_KSA: Launch permission granted! πGO ASCENSIONπ FTS power internal, service tower booms unlocked for retraction, AFCS rdy for terminal count
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] RSO has closed the range - rocket is ARMED and Flight Termination System/Launch Escape System is activated. Anyone or anything spotted within 500m of the launch pad will hold the count. Anything within 25km airspace & 50km at sea will do the same
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the only reason we're using the single truck to shave time off the countdown is so that it's less time the eventual astronaut aboard has to wait for lift off, since they are put into the rocket before it's raised vertical and fueled
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h55m] rocket systems are online & configured for tanking. Pad crew has a GO to begin onload of 7t liquid propellant. We've cut 20min from our countdown thanks to a huge fuel truck (originally purchased for Dhumla) that can top off the rocket in one go
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the rocket should fly much closer to the planned ascent profile this time (red dots), but we still expect it to under-perform as it will probably experience more drag than is modeled. Hopefully though with smaller margins than last time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h40m] Wx data has been gathered & is being processed while Flight Director Lanalye gives her launch team their final brief. This mission will follow the same major steps as the one last month, with tweaks to the ascent profile for a slightly flatter trajectory
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-4)
5/28
#2π09:28:45 π 11:42:30 !!π!!
#3π15:29:36 π 17:43:21
#4π21:30:27 π 23:44:12
5/29
#1π03:31:18 π 05:45:03
@ KSC (UTC-4)
5/28
#2π09:28:45 π 11:42:30 !!π!!
#3π15:29:36 π 17:43:21
#4π21:30:27 π 23:44:12
5/29
#1π03:31:18 π 05:45:03
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all launch readiness reports have been submitted, reviewed and approved by @DKerman_KSA - we are π GO π for tomorrow's mission! Pre-launch operations will kick off early tomorrow at 12:18 UTC ops.kerbalspace.agency
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bluedog Design Bureau won the contract for heavier-duty radial booster couplings for the Ascension Mk2 since the smaller ones used on the Progeny Mk6 Block II would have failed during ascent and also these have to do more than just hold the booster to the lifter
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the low-altitude KerBalloon team have set out for bit.ly/Area_51KL2, about 233km of traversal that will take them roughly 5-6 hours to complete over two day cycles. They are geared up and ready to mountain climb if needed to retrieve the payload
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
R&D had a party today to celebrate making it to 1 calendar year incident-free. Wernher von Kerman was a bit put-off though when Mortimer pointed out R&D's budget constriction meant they weren't doing much work the past few months. Regardless - congrats! twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this weekend workers will finish up a radio relay tower placed at 5.2km ASL - so high workers need to wear oxygen masks. This will allow us to extend sub-orbital flights further downrange & still stay in contact with Ockr on returns
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
despite our promise to stay committed to fixed-wing aircraft after the crash of the Dhumla, lack of funds may force us to cut back on our participation via the Genesis program. Regardless, C7 Aerospace has pledged to continue development even without us
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
another step successfully taken on the path to kerbed flight - Ascension Mk1 ascent abort test was well-within tolerances for crew survival. Full flight analysis now available: kerbalspace.agency/?p=9148
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
being able to eject from the system also means the Mk2 could reach Minmus and Mun. Whether the payload mass that could get there would be enough fuel to enter into orbit is unknown. Extremis team is being leveraged to help w/these calculations. Still, even fly-bys would be great!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ascension program has been working on determining the upper-limits of the Mk2 and the results are surprising. It has the potential to send a 255kg payload direct into kerbolar orbit, possibly to Duna or Eve - that's the next thing they will be looking at with LVD
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ascension Mk1 for next week's launch has been stacked vertical in the VAB today for fit and load checks, which is just the capsule being placed atop the lifter. Tomorrow it will be laid out horizontal for final checks prior to loading up on the carry vehicle Monday
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Mk1 will still be rolled out horizontally so the astronaut will board just prior to the rocket being raised vertical. The new launchpad configuration will still be able to support Progeny Mk7 launches as well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Ascension Mk2 will require a reconfiguration of the current umbilical towers (top one stays put, becomes bottom while bottom one is built higher up) plus the addition of a new crew access tower since the Mk2 will be rolled out vertically from the VAB
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the extensible truss is mainly to protect the spacecraft from heat generated by the RTG (for those that carry the most fuel) but it can also be useful to control spin rates when placed appropriately - mostly a planned feature for our Extremis probes
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our partnership with Coatl Aerospace continues to bear fruit as they have submitted the final design revision of the RTG that has been under development the past year and a half and will be integrated into our first commercial satellites
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the parts order has been placed for our first Mk7-A rocket. It takes ~2wks to build a Mk6 so with some new parts that the VAB crew is not experienced with integrating Lead Engineer Simon has stated he needs at least 3-4wks to ready the Mk7-A. Launch set for 6/20 @ 17:42 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Flight Officer Aldeny was laid to rest today at Ockr. Kerbs don't believe in an afterlife so we will have to carry on his memory with our actions in the land of the living. @DKerman_KSA was in attendance with Genesis team & all pledged to continue the work Aldy started. RIP β¨π
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's called the Kraken Nebula, covering most of the southern sky. It's just one of many bands of gas surrounding our planetary system & is part of the stellar nursery remnant in which our star was born. An exciting prospect for future exploration is how close our neighbors are
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
#OTD in 2017 we had our inaugural launch of the Progeny Mk4 - ops.kerbalspace.agency - it didn't go so well but eventually this would be the first rocket design to reach space! If at first you don't succeed... fly, fly again!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
#ICYMI our second launch this week featured a Launch Escape System test during powered ascent. We had video of the capsule separation on our YouTube yesterday, taken from the ground tracking camera footage youtube.com/watch?v=Ei6RzAβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tedman has been transferred out of the ICU after 3 more surgical procedures and doctors say his outlook has gotten better. His fine motor control appears compromised but therapists are hopeful he can regain the ability to be self-sufficient. We wish him a speedy recovery
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this exempts Bob from being the 1st to orbit Kerbin and there are plenty of 1sts still to come in our exploration of the Kerbol system so the rest of the crew remains just as excited
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Congratulations to Specialist Bob Kerman - the first kerbal selected to head up into space!! β¨ππ
The following crew rotation is:
Bill
Val
Jeb
You can review the selection process here: youtube.com/watch?v=g_6LoHβ¦
The following crew rotation is:
Bill
Val
Jeb
You can review the selection process here: youtube.com/watch?v=g_6LoHβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
capsule is out of the water and being delivered back to KSC for post-flight analysis. Mission was a success in gathering the data needed but ultimately we have yet to determine if the LES did indeed operate within tolerances for a future onboard crew member
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tongjess got a good view of the capsule as it made its final decent under full chute and splashed down 32.429km downrange just off shore at the north end of the bay. Capsule heat shield was dropped and float collar deployed. Recovery operations are underway
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good chute deploy as seen from ground tracking camera, canopies are reefed to create extra drag and slow the capsule as it descends into thicker air. They will fully deploy <1km above the surface to arrest descent and allow the capsule to land at around 5m/s
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
clean capsule separation! It is just about to finish coasting up to an apokee of ~35km. Flight computer will command the chute to pop at that point but the chute's own pressure mechanism will hold it in until the capsule falls below 30km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
nominal ascent, rocket is stable and passing through 15km - coming up on capsule release in just a few seconds at 18.5km. Velocity is currently >600m/s (Mach 2)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good engine start, chamber pressure checks out for 1.2 TWR launch power - clamp release and lift off! Rocket will clear the launch tower and throttle up to full power and begin to pitch over downrange
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] RSO has closed the range, rocket is now ARMED and Flight Termination System/Launch Escape System has been activated. Anyone or anything spotted within 500m of the launch pad will hold the countdown from this point on
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h20m] we will not be launching a high-altitude weather balloon today because we won't be flying through the upper atmosphere - also because Mortimer got stingy with funds and we actually don't have any more (but some additional units are now on the way for next launch)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h40m] after a trip back to the VAB to refuel the tanker trucks have completed their task on schedule. Preflight is resuming in launch control while pad workers get things cleaned up and locked down. Tank levels will be closely monitored to ensure no leaks are present
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h15m] rocket is fully woke, weather remains stable and GO has been given to begin fueling, adding 7t of liquid propellant. The lifter stage will simply burn out and crash back onto the surface after the capsule separates. Look out below!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h30m] weather forecast for today is 100% favorable conditions - it's a lot easier to commit to a launch you already know is going to fail! Launch team has confirmed Monolith chilldown is complete and have begun to wake up the rocket to onload flight instructions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h] final mission brief under way at launch control. Flight will be relatively simple - after rocket ascends into the upper atmosphere the capsule will be detached and flown away using the Launch Escape System. It will then descend ballistically for splashdown
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-4)
5/16
#2π08:47:57 π 11:01:42
#3π14:48:48 π 17:02:33 !!π!!
#4π20:49:39 π 23:03:24
5/17
#1π02:50:30 π 05:04:15
@ KSC (UTC-4)
5/16
#2π08:47:57 π 11:01:42
#3π14:48:48 π 17:02:33 !!π!!
#4π20:49:39 π 23:03:24
5/17
#1π02:50:30 π 05:04:15
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've updated Flight Officer Aldeny's background information on his crew member page (click the bottom of his portrait) to properly reflect his nearly 1 year of service with the KSA. Head on over to review all his achievements and missions ops.kerbalspace.agency/?crew=aldy
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
both Progenitor and Ascension teams are working together today to turn around the launch facilities and get everything ready for the Ascension Mk1 ascent abort test tomorrow. The mission is basic enough to allow the launches to happen almost back to back
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket has been returned to KSC and while the batteries and instruments on the upper truss are somewhat crispy, they are all still intact. Well, the batteries we don't care about except that if they had gotten too hot they would have exploded
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
sailing home victorious, MSV Tongjess has managed to get word to us at last that they found and recovered the rocket ~370km downrange. Neither upper fairing was still attached. Here is the remainder of the ops log. β¨π KERZZAH β¨π great work everyone!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket is fast approaching the atmosphere, now passing through 250km falling at 1.8km/s and increasing. its flat spin hasn't gotten any worse and past re-entries have survived in poorer conditions - but not when missing two upper fairing halves
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
payload had a good ride into space, although it looks like the upper fairings may not have detached fully or cleanly since the rocket picked up some large precession after 45km when they were set to be released - as if there was excess drag on the vehicle. 9min to apokee
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
SRB-XL ignition & lift off! First stage will boost for 34s and carry the rocket >10km high at speeds exceeding Mach 2, with a peak thrust of ~68kN. Angled lower fins will spin the rocket up for stabilization
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] Range Safety Officer has declared the launch zone closed and the rocket is now ARMED. Flight Termination System is also activated. Anyone who encroaches on the pad to within 300m will hold the countdown. All spectators should remain within designated areas
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h20m] KerBalloon has been released out in the grasslands west of KSC. It will drift east on the wind over KSC and rise up to the upper atmosphere (>18km) to send back data on the upper-level winds so we can ensure no dangerous shear is present
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we also have a much smaller than usual launch window today since we want to send the rocket up near mid-day cycle so it spends the most time in the radiation belt. If we have to delay launch by more than 15min we'll need to try again after 3rd sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the detachment of the upper payload fairings will allow the hemispherical ion trap to be exposed directly to space. It will also hopefully prevent it from being burnt up on re-entry since near the nose temperatures don't get as hot as closer to the tail
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h40m] Flight Director Lanalye and her launch control team have gathered in the control facility to receive their final flight brief. This will be a standard Mk6-I flight profile with only one minor change not shown: the upper payload fairings will be detached
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h10m] launch operations are kicking off! Monolith temple was closed to begin chilldown several hours earlier and is nearing sub-zero temperatures. All teams are assembling to begin their readiness checklists. We'll have updates at these major milestones:
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-4)
5/14
#2π08:41:09 π 10:54:54 !!π!!
#3π14:42:00 π 16:55:45
#4π20:42:51 π 22:56:36
5/15
#1π02:43:42 π 04:57:27
@ KSC (UTC-4)
5/14
#2π08:41:09 π 10:54:54 !!π!!
#3π14:42:00 π 16:55:45
#4π20:42:51 π 22:56:36
5/15
#1π02:43:42 π 04:57:27
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the launch control team have submitted their readiness report, Ops Director @DKerman_KSA has reviewed and signed off on all of them - we are π GO FOR LAUNCH π tomorrow! Weather is forecast to be 75% favorable and pre-launch operations will kick off at 12:30 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mk6 is on its way out to be mounted. Progeny rockets have their own carry vehicle but it won't do any longer once the Mk7 comes around - those will use the same carry vehicle that bears the Ascension Mk1. The Ascension Mk2 will also use its own, much bigger, vehicle
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Dhumla crash site has been cleaned up and moved to an offsite location for further analysis. ASA says they will hand over the data from the aircraft flight recorder to us & C7 once they have properly analyzed it, to ensure there is no tampering with evidence
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today was the 3rd annual KSC 5k & dedicated to FO Aldeny's memory. Everyone who participated got a ribbon, medals went to top finishers. Our astronaut crew regularly run this route so they were exempt but each started out with different race divisions to set the pace
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
For now, the camera only stores/transmits back images at specific times to help confirm important events, like the payload separation. This image we posted earlier was nice from a PR standpoint, but for mission analysis it helped confirm the deflection of the elevator controls
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the one example of video from the booster cam we have was just a short clip stored on the payload and unable to be viewed until the test mass was recovered. We are definitely looking to someday be able to both store and watch video from the booster camera
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
kerbs have been asking for video of an Ascension Mk1 launch into space but we're sorry to say we actually don't have any footage! Yes, that's a video cam on the booster but there is not much room in the capsule to store video footage or transmission bandwidth to beam it back
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
everyone still working through the loss of a crew member. Jeb & Val have both suffered crashes and minor injuries, Bob has been seriously injured in a UTV accident, but this is only the 2nd time we've had a death in the line of duty since ops began in 2016 kerbalspace.agency/?cat=8&tag=injβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tedman remains in the ICU but also remains responsive & doctors are hopeful he will continue to recover. Aldeny's remains will be examined and then shipped back to his home cavern of Ockr for burial. Services will be held over next weekend
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Progeny Mk6 has been laid horizontal for final payload checkouts before they button up the fairings and load it up onto the carry vehicle for rollout on Monday. The ascent abort test Ascension Mk1 lifter will have the capsule stacked atop it today for fit & load checks
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
despite best efforts to repair & refurbish, the L thrusters at the base of the Mk1 capsule saw too much damage during re-entry to be re-used on the next flight. The I thrusters used for roll control however still function well & will be tried for a consecutive mission
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tedman update: downgraded to serious condition after he spent several more hours in surgery and will still need additional procedures over time but doctors report they at least saw him regain consciousness for a short time and does not appear to show signs of paralysis
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
test stand will be rebuilt to better specs by August and the 3 engines already partway assembled are being resumed with an order for 3 more placed today. First new engine should arrive next month to be used on the Mk1 flight we hope will carry a kerbal into space by July
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
some good news today at least: K2-X engine has been cleared. Final report is the fuel tank, which was constantly re-used for each test, fatigued & shed some of its interior lining due to poor dampening. This entered the engine causing a cascading failure of the fuel pump system
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tedman has just gotten out of surgery - they managed to patch him up enough (head hemorrhage, spinal damage, internal injuries) that he is able to be moved to a larger facility for more work but still remains in critical condition and has not yet shown any signs of waking up
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Dhumla fire has finally been quenched, thankfully the aircraft carried little fuel so it could fly higher on the way back for a new altitude record attempt. Being mostly intact will be a boon for the crash investigation and likely also gave Tedman a chance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Air Safety Administration has already dispatched agents to secure the crash site and will be conducting a full investigation of the incident, with which we & C7 Aerospace will of course fully cooperate
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
several witnesses saw the crash as they knew the aircraft was coming by. Reports indicate it seemed to attempt an actual landing before trying to go around & failed to take back to the air before hitting the end of the runway. Here is a photo of it on short final
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are saddened to report that Flight Officer Aldeny was pronounced dead at the scene and Tedman was found alive but unresponsive. He is currently being rushed to the nearest clinic for treatment pending transfer to a full medical facility
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
emergency crews report that the aircraft engines are on fire but fuel leakage from the near-empty tanks means they don't pose a risk to the main fuselage. Getting no response from the cabin, exterior hatch was blown & rescuers are inside trying to extricate the crew
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we lost signal shortly after the last tweet and have just now received word that the aircraft has crashed off the far threshold of the runway. Emergency vehicles are already on their way out. Thick smoke is seen from the tarmac but no one saw an explosion
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a smooth descent now has them heading downwind towards final, Ted has confirmed runway is clear of traffic while Aldy slots through some terrain to give himself a good amount of room to make the approach. A smaller aircraft could do a tighter pattern
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Aldy is lvl @ 4km & Ted has signed off as they pass behind the mtns on their way direct to KGA - after a flyby of Umbarg to say "HAI THERE" to the airship Barons & let them know we are back in business (doubtful any were aboveground to see the aircraft but it's the principle)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
weather has continued to improve since yesterday and ground crews are prepping the Dhumla for its test flight while Flight Officers Aldy & Tedman are being briefed. The aircraft will perform a cross-country flight to KGA then attempt a new altitude record on the way back
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit of a bumpy descent and landing but Aldy is back on the ground taxiing to the HAB. Here's a photo sent to us from the wing cam as he cleared the mountains under heavy cloud cover, leaving the rain & poorer visibility behind him out on the plains
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've been hailed early by Aldy making his way back after weather took a turn for the worse. He still managed to gather enough data to make the flight worthwhile however, so that's good news. Controllers have cleared him to approach & land Rwy09
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
weather is still on the iffy side but it's good enough and the researchers really need this data. Latest pollen cycle ends this week & mission has already been delayed past prime collection window thanks to C7 shut down. Aldy is ready on Rwy01 for departure
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
valve was repaired, not replaced so further testing can be done to better understand how it failed in the first place if it fails again. Ground crews will roll the aircraft out for flight tomorrow, which will also include a cross-country trip to KGA for a touch & go
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
incident report from the last Dhumla test flight (kerbalspace.agency/?p=8759) has been released. The outflow valve in the rear suffered a failure, lowering pressure in the cabin. Crew response was correct and safeties properly prevented rapid depressurization
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KAS has completed its next set of Alaba orbital predictions. Turns out there are 5 more encounters over the next 181 days, similar to the 5 previous ones over 171 days. So we will see if the 5th encounter still holds true this time by the end of this year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
deadline for number submissions will be midnight UTC on 5/15. Next Monday we will announce the date on which we will hold the selection process, which we are planning to live stream to ensure everyone can see there was no backroom meddling
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
who will be the first astronaut to go to space? All 4 of our original crew have trained for the privilege and now we want YOU to help us select the one to get the honor! All you need to do is reply to this tweet with 5 numbers between 0 and 100 (they don't all have to be unique)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
one more photo from the recent Deuce flight looking south towards the flat ice caps as the sun rises almost as high as it ever gets over the horizon down there, seen just over the last snowy mountain range from 8km ASL. Isn't that cold clear air just stunning?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
flying 2km higher than the 2018 mission (ops.kerbalspace.agency/?body=Kerbin-Sβ¦) only exposed the crew to a max of 0.085rad/h for 4min. It takes ~37rads to show signs of radiation sickness so the crew was never in any danger
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with the radiation data from last week's flight compared with the mission over the north polar region a year ago scientists have been able to confirm a suspected linear increase in radiation dosage as one gets higher from the ground, ~0.0035rad/hr every kilometer
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
one day we'll have spacecraft in orbit that can confirm such events, either directly or by their after-effects. In this case, the dust will likely fall into the ocean and create a super bloom of microscopic plant life feeding off the nutrients within it. Ain't life amazing?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-altitude KerBalloon crew have returned from a successful mission with no report of being directly affected by an asteroid impact. They did note the sky took on a reddish tinge from dust however as they were leaving so it seems there was an impact
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
how do you navigate over a featureless ocean in the dark when a simple compass heading isn't enough to arrive over a certain spot? The stars! That's why the Deuce flight flew at night. Once it was light enough, they had terrain features to guide them
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KAS will do another long-term prediction of the same length as the last one (over time, not by # of encounters) to see if the same period leads to a similar deviation in the timing of events. If so, something minor is still not being accounted for in modeling
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new orbital data posted for bit.ly/_Alaba. Being able to directly observe it, the encounter happened nearly 7min later than predicted back at the end of last year. The new trajectory has the moonlet not meeting Mun again until 6/15 instead of 5/9
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ted & Aldy set a new record for longest continuous flight time of 4:59:07, beating their old record of 4:31:41. You can view all our records and achievements here: kerbalspace.agency/?page_id=72
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here's a look at Mun over the VAB just a few minutes ago when Alaba entered it's SOI for a 45min transit. This is the 20th recorded pass of the moonlet past Mun and the Kerbal Astronomical Society will have updated orbital information published tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the aircraft is parked back at the HAB after Aldy set her down easy on the runway. Lead Scientist Cheranne is eager to get the radiation readings to her researchers - being 99.999% sure the southern radiation region existed still doesn't beat having the data proving it does!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
flight controllers set up the aircraft for a pattern approach to Rwy09 (now on final) and we received this image from the belly camera of Mun and Minmus alongside a snowy mountain range as the Deuce hugged the deck on the way home over the ice caps
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tedman has just hailed us to request approach vectors, reports they had nothing but minor chop to contend with on their flight. Congrats to them both on being the first to explore the southern polar region by aircraft! Their flight path is also a hint for our previous question
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
by now the Deuce should be circling its destination, deploying its suite of science instruments. They also should have passed through the elevated radiation region similar to the one found in the north polar regions. Levels will not be harmful during their brief exposure
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
question we get often is whether our aircraft have autopilots. Not completely. They can hold roll/pitch/yaw but cannot hold altitude or heading nor navigate to a location. So aircraft can be flown hands-off to minimize crew workload but still needs to be trimmed & told what to do
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with favorable weather today, FOs Ted & Aldy have just departed from Rwy09 for bit.ly/Area_ZN-223. They will fly overnight across the water and reach land by sunrise. Any guesses why they are flying at night other than having no hazardous terrain to worry about?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the investigation into why the Dhumla cockpit lost pressure on the last test flight has already restarted. Once completed, the aircraft will again attempt to climb as high as possible in a test flight while also performing a cross-country flight to KGA
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
there is still a ton of redacted information about the whole airship/C7 legal battle but apparently peace terms have been arranged and everyone can get back to business. Here's what we know and how things have been affected: kerbalspace.agency/?p=8988
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
if both missions go well, then the 3rd will send the first astronaut up no earlier than July - we'll need to get the first of the new engine shipment that was put on hold back in Feb, integrate it, test it & we are also still working on the 2nd new Mk1 capsule integration as well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ascension team have finished planning out the use of the remaining 3 Mk1 lifters - ascent abort test will take place right after the Progeny Mk6-I mission on 5/16 @ 21:48 UTC followed by a re-fly of this past mission for more testing on 5/28 @ 16:28 UTC ops.kerbalspace.agency
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
focus for construction will now shift fully to the North and South observatories, which will be big additions to the astronomical community in their own right as they will have IR capabilities and be able to watch the polar skies. Both are slated to be complete in 2020
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Central Observatory for the ATN/DSN has completed its commissioning campaign and is now staffing up for full operations year round. It contains the new 10m telescope that is now the biggest on Kerbin, along with radio dishes for satellite communication
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
SGQ-958(C) is confirmed to be entering our atmosphere in a few days over the western edge of the Great Desert. It will be ~200km from where the low-altitude KerBalloon crew will be operating so we don't expect they will be in danger, but they were warned before departure
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-altitude KerBalloon team is now ready to head out on their own expedition to bit.ly/Site_T1A402 ~600km away by sea and land. They have the UTVs with them aboard MSV Tongjess for the trek to the release point
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
suffering minimal damage during re-entry, the Mk1 capsule from the last flight can be reflown. We would likely not refly a capsule for a kerbed mission, but for another uncrewed test the capsule is in good enough condition and will save us some much needed funds
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
HAB workers are getting the hangar cleaned up & the K2-X engine investigation is moving all its material offsite as it wraps up work and hopes to release results in a few days. Dhumla will be getting a full check-over this week in preparation for flight tests to resume next week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Flight Officers Ted & Aldy have returned to KSC this weekend and are raring to get back to work this week ahead of C7's return to operations the following week. They'll take another attempt at the flight Jeb & Val had to abort due to weather last month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the sloped runway and boxed-in approach to KGA however was also cited as it creates a lot of difficulty for even experienced pilots. There's already been talk about a newer, larger airport being built for Kravass to better handle the larger aircraft like the Dhumla
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a Civvie crash-landed on approach to Kravass General Airport back in Feb, the third fixed-wing aviation accident since 2016 (not associated with the KSA). The pilot died, and the Air Safety Administration just released their formal report: pilot error
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
two of the remaining three Ascension Mk1 lifters are having their horizontal fins angled 5Β° as the recent ascent showed it was successful at giving the rocket more nose-down pitch control while still allowing the elevators to pitch the nose up or hold level when needed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we had a nasty storm pass through over the last two day cycles but thankfully it was during low tide so we didn't experience much in the way of flooding. Bad storms at high tide can produce quite the rise in water levels, as we've experienced in the past
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Bluedog Design Bureau has helped to finance a mission to test out their ion trap, which will be a future instrument for Extremis probes. Launch is scheduled for 5/14 @ 16:40. Mission details on the ops tracker: ops.kerbalspace.agency
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our astronaut crew are readying for a full day of physical evaluation, both medical and aerobic - it's important we gather regular data on their health and performance for a baseline to compare against after their return from spaceflight (and one day, during spaceflight!)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the heat shield dropped from the Mk1 capsule shows only 2.5% of its surface was ablated away during re-entry. This is good news because a thinner heat shield can save as much as 180kg - atop an Ascension Mk2 upper stage that's an extra 65m/s of Ξv
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
pad workers have been inspecting the launch towers and engine clamps and Lead Engineer Simon reports the amount of wear they are experiencing is less than predicted for this many launches, meaning we can choose to let loose an Ascension rocket at full thrust if needed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/AscensionProgr⦠team have decided there's no mission profile that fits the Mk1 Block II so it will be merged with the Viklun Mk1 to create a single vehicle: the Ascension Mk2. So the Mk1 will carry sub-orbital payloads and the Mk2 will be for orbital missions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
re-entry data from last week's flight shows Greggery experienced a crushing 17G of peak force - survivable but not without some possible nasty side-effects. We're aiming for 10-12G and may need to shoot for a lower altitude next time or just go further for a flatter trajectory
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all C7 Aerospace employees have been given a 2-week notice... that they'll be returning to work! Still lots of gag orders going around and closed-door judicial sessions but Ops Dir @DKerman_KSA has been invited to Sheltered Rock next week. Hopefully for some answers at last
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we expect several iterations as it's already known the SRM-L will need to be replaced with a more powerful solid and the SRM-XL needs to revert back to its old core, which can output up to 145kN of thrust ASL for the larger payloads that will be carried
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
say hello to the Progeny Mk7-A, the first iteration on the path to a cheaper small-sat option for deploying 0.35-0.625m payloads to low-Kerbin orbit (<250km). Unable to make orbit, this rocket will be a technology pathfinder. More info: kerbalspace.agency/?p=8963
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
eclipses are not all the same - it depends on your location and thus the perspective you are given. Here at KSC Mun perfectly travels over the sun, but at higher latitudes, only partial eclipses occur. See more in our flickr album: flickr.com/photos/kerbal_β¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
#ICYMI we had our latest rocket launch this week. Here is the Ascension Mk1 Block I lifter carrying the Mk1 capsule for a test ride into space (unkerbed) clearing the tower moments after liftoff. For more on the mission see our Ops Tracker: ops.kerbalspace.agency
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
even though this ascent trajectory wasn't as demanding as the last, the real goal was to follow the programmed path as closely as possible to better analyze the accuracy of the Launch Vehicle Designer and in this the rocket was successful
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ironically the heavier payload of yesterday's flight meant the rocket flew a more vertical trajectory than the last when it was modified to be able to fly more horizontal. The two paths diverge downrange thanks to the LES malfunction, which sent the rocket off radially
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here's a view we'll never get tired of - Kerbin from the edge of space. Taken shortly before MECO. The outside pressure is near vacuum and the engine plume has expanded into a gaseous cloud
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
β¨π KERZZAH! πβ¨ we have word from MSV Tongjess that they located the capsule still afloat, altho it took extra time to find the heat shield, which detached moments before splashdown to reduce damage for post-flight inspection & clear the way for the float collar to deploy
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we lost signal shortly after initial chute deployment but it's good to know at least that they have popped out! Now we must wait and hope - Tongjess is still over 1.5hrs away from the new recovery zone & may not be able to still contact Ockr when they get there
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
just enough cold gas remained to get capsule re-oriented properly and re-entry is now in progress. During this time, after MaxQ, is when we were going to fire the LES push motors to see how it affected the capsule for potential future use as an emergency braking system
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
radial out orientation finally achieved after resetting the control system - it seemed to still want to orient along the ascent trajectory & was fighting with radial out hold command. Cold gas almost used up so RCS switched off so capsule can point retrograde before re-entry
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
capsule is thru apokee - LES tower burn took our original apokee of 423km and boosted it up to 506km. New trajectory puts re-entry ~100km further downrange than planned so Tongjess is already on the move. RCS testing continues - capsule having trouble orienting radial out
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
parachute had to be disarmed so it wouldn't try to pop out as soon as the capsule re-entered the atmosphere, but otherwise all systems are looking good. Controllers have begun to send orientation commands to point the capsule various directions & fully check out the RCS system
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
RCS system has zeroed out the tumble and capsule has been re-oriented to hold prograde. Rate of turn confirms the LES tower has indeed been detached. Controllers still working to determine any additional ways this unexpected event could affect the mission
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are dealing with an unplanned triggering of the Launch Escape System just after capsule separation! Controllers are working to recover the capsule, which has gone into a bit of a tumble. LES tower has burned out and reports that it detached
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
hello again, space! Overall ascent was nominal, with acceptable deviation from planned trajectory (MaxQ was late, apokee is low). Control team plotting new course to see how it will affect the rest of the mission. Standing by for capsule separation in just a few seconds
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
just over halfway to space and all systems remain nominal. Pitch deflection barely at 50% which means the angled fins are doing their job well. Some roll wobble detected going supersonic but rocket remains stable overall and on the planned track
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
engine startup nominal, chamber pressures good, throttle-up to 1.2TWR successful and we have lift off!! Rocket will clear the tower before going full thrust, saving wear on the pad infrastructure, then enabling guidance control to begin pitching over as it heads downrange
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] Final readiness polls complete: Wx: GO; Range: GO; Flight: GO; Tracking Station: GO; Downrange Tracking: GO; Ops Director: Launch permission granted! πGO ASCENSIONπ FTS on internal power, service tower booms unlocked to prep for retraction, AFCS ready for terminal count
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] RSO has closed the range, rocket is ARMED and Flight Termination System, including the LES, is ACTIVE. Arming allows a few final checks to be performed on the engine. Weather desk is analyzing upper-wind data just now coming in from the balloon probe
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
as usual, it is important everyone stick to the designated viewing areas if you are here to spectate the launch. Anyone seen entering the 500m keep out radius will be escorted off campus. If it happens after L-15m you'll also hold up the entire countdown! How about no
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h15m] tanker trucks are already hooked up to the service tower, fuel system is initialized, valves are open and the GO has been given by the launch team to begin onloading propellants, totaling 7 metric tons of liquid fuel and oxidizer
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
additionally the flight profile had to be adjusted to account for the capsule weighing more than anticipated, mainly due to not factoring in the LES on the last flight. Result is the rocket will now carry a full load of fuel to haul the extra ~300kg on a similar trajectory
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the previous mission attempted a similar trajectory but the rocket did not have enough pitch authority to lower its nose far enough. This rocket's elevator fins are themselves pitched to provide downward force in addition to the control surfaces, tho ascent is a bit steeper
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h] launch team has assembled for their final briefing from Flight Director Lanalye. Here's a comprehensive look at today's mission, which will be similar to the last flight except using the actual capsule instead of a test weight. Also some LES usage experimentation
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h30m] pre-launch operations officially kicking off as all teams report for duty. Shuttle buses for visitors viewing the launch will begin to run across the causeway from the Support Village in 30min. We will have updates at the following milestones in the countdown
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Monolith temple has been closed up and chilldown has begun to lower the internal temperature to below freezing by the time the rocket is switched on, robbing it of the heat energy needed to form severe storms and endanger the launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-4)
4/18
#2π07:12:45 π 09:26:30
#3π13:13:36 π 15:27:21 !!π!!
#4π19:14:27 π 21:28:12
4/19
#1π01:15:18 π 03:29:03
@ KSC (UTC-4)
4/18
#2π07:12:45 π 09:26:30
#3π13:13:36 π 15:27:21 !!π!!
#4π19:14:27 π 21:28:12
4/19
#1π01:15:18 π 03:29:03
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Flight Director Lanalye has been rehearsing her team hard for the past 2 weeks and reports they are ready to support tomorrow's launch, which will be conducted as an automated flight since it will just be the test dummy Greggery going for the ride (tho capsule ECLS is supplied)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the rocket has left the VAB and is doing the slow(er) roll to the launch pad, putt-putting along at just 1m/s (slightly faster than the average walking kerbal) taking ~11 minutes to travel to the pad 655m away. It used to travel a bit faster but w/capsule the mass is near limits
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Sheltered Rock and Ockr have confirmed they are both ready to deliver downrange tracking for this week's launch. For orbital launches, we also have DSN Central. Nothing to the south? No worries - anything we launch south will also eventually pass over areas north of the equator
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our order for 3 additional K2-X engines, scheduled to be filled at the end of this month, remains on hold until the completion of the investigation into the explosion that occurred during static firing back at the end of Feb. Extra checks were made on the engine for this launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
also, while we will eventually have an 0.625m LF/O vacuum engine designed for satellites that will be more powerful for a few dozen extra kilos of mass, this engine is vastly simpler and thus more reliable for the years-long service time most satellite missions will require
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the cold gas engine is nowhere near powerful enough for orbital insertion, which is why it was so important that the Viklun upper stage was designed to be able to reach orbit on its own and reduce the requirements placed on the payload to allow more mass for instruments
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our partners over at Archtagon Aerospace have come up with a cold gas engine future satellites can use to adjust their orbits with the same resources needed for orientation at better efficiency with greater thrust (so better than placing 4 or even 8 thrusters pointing aft)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
originally scheduled to be completed sometime around now, the Kongo River Research Station airfield has had construction suspended since the beginning of last month, and we will have to wait for the C7/Airship situation to resolve itself before it can (maybe?) resume
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
still, there are cases (like the incident back in 2017 which remains unsolved) which remind us our security plans at KSC still need to include contingencies for disruption of operational events like launches. Hopefully someday that will no longer be needed twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
while scientists still lament the removal of instruments from the Monolith, they do acknowledge that everything they tried failed to tell us much about the structure. Furthermore, re-opening access to the edifice has lowered religious extremism to almost non-existent levels
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the overall success rate so far for every mission we've conducted across all programs is 86% - not too shabby! You can see success rates for individual programs on their page (kerbalspace.agency/?page_id=1824) & also success rates for individual vessels
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
one week to our next launch (ops.kerbalspace.agency) and while the rocket gets ready in the VAB work has also been done out on the launch pad to ensure that it is all set to support the launch. Photo taken just a short while ago at 3rd sunset
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our astronauts officially have a ride into orbit! Assuming everything was modeled properly, the Ascension Mk1 Block II lifter + the Viklun orbital stage can successfully place a capsule into a 40Β° inclined 100km circular orbit with ~230m/s of spare Ξv! Here's a full render
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
announced earlier this week, our Viklun orbital stage still doesn't have its own tab on the Ascension program page as we're working out how we want to identify this vehicle on the site and Ops Tracker, since the lifter stage also has its own patch & blueprint...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
thankfully no one was seriously injured by the rocks they were pelted with. We have a writeup on the site to provide more info on what happened: kerbalspace.agency/?p=8922 the government is currently discussing what actions, if any, should be taken to contact these isolated kerbs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our high-alt KerBalloon crew is back, partially successful since they failed to recover 1 of the 2 balloons. Why they failed however is amazing news - they were attacked by an unknown group of kerbals that ambushed them from caves near the landing site!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today our astronaut crew achieved an important milestone in their training - they have collectively succeeded more times than failed in the capsule simulator. Congrats - keep working hard, space is only getting closer!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
furthermore, in the case of this 100km orbit the Block II has enough power on its own to lob the entire Viklun upper stage to that height, so the Viklun only has to start twice in some cases, although it is capable of as many as three restarts (ascent/orbit/de-orbit)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
even if we cut the tank size in half, the Block I was unable to make orbit without the payload itself requiring its own engine to complete the burn and we don't want to waste payload mass on more fuel. The Block II will be the only lifter to carry Viklun upper stages
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Mk1 Capsule tips the scale at ~1.5t so it should be able to make a low orbit - we'll have news on that later this week as work is still being done to confirm it's possible. Even if not, we already know we can design satellites massing <1t
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are happy to reveal the blueprint of the complete Viklun upper stage for the Ascension Mk1-II lifter! Two images after shows it modeled to place a 1t payload into a circular 40Β° inclined 100km orbit with a hefty error margin of nearly 700m/s of Ξv to spare
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
final assembly for next week's launch is well underway on the Ascension side of the VAB with the lifter in place for stacking the capsule later this week after it finishes integration. Wondering where the RCS blocks went from last week's capsule test? Wonder no more!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
last week's LES pad abort test went off perfectly and ends the test series. Ascension team is currently considering the need for an ascent abort test as well, which would finally discard the beat-up test capsule since it can't operate in space anymore anyways
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mk1 capsule is checked out & ready to begin integration which means we now have a date for the next Ascension launch!
π 4/18 @ 20:12 UTC π
Learn more about the mission and the rocket via the Ops Tracker: ops.kerbalspace.agency
π 4/18 @ 20:12 UTC π
Learn more about the mission and the rocket via the Ops Tracker: ops.kerbalspace.agency
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the shake table that R&D is working on will be used to help certify rocket payloads for flight by subjecting them to the vibrations they will undergo during launch. Small & simple payloads launched so far not as easy to disrupt as larger more complex satellites of the future
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
lunchtime at KSC is a great chance for all depts to mingle & share stories - helpful like in the case of the engineering labs realizing the groundquake picked up by their instruments was actually the shake table down the hall at R&D, which suffered a damper failure
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
K2-X engine explosion investigation remains ongoing and confirmation has just been released that it was definitely the engine that blew up, not the fuel tank so use of the engine for kerbed flight remains restricted until the investigation completes its work
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Progeny Mk7 is under final review, still planning to lock the design in by the end of this month. One of the biggest challenges was designing the rocket and launch system to be compatible with the existing pad infrastructure built for Ascension
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
originally designed as an 0.625m engine, it was scaled up to 1.25m for use with Ascension and instead became the precursor for the 0.625m Ospray engine planned for Progenitor. The enlarged design puts out 68kN of thrust with an ISP of 360
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the C7/Airship fiasco has thrown global shipping into a bit of disarray and delayed the arrival of our 2nd stage vacuum engine but the Viklun from Bluedog Design Bureau is at last in the VAB undergoing initial checkouts! It will hopefully power 1.25m payloads into orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ZMA-630(A) is beginning a unique pass thru our SOI this week - it will actually skim through Minmus' SOI as well, passing 1.4Mm from the small moon before continuing on. Tho no major change to its trajectory, still enough for astronomers to infer finer details of Minmus' gravity
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers believe the white bands were formed by ice crystals in the upper atmosphere that have since melted away as Sarnus continues to approach closer to the sun as it moves towards perikelion
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
what was the difference in the latest Sarnus photo? If you needed to compare, you should have checked out our Astrophotography album over on flickr (flickr.com/photos/kerbal_β¦) but here's the change - no more white cloud bands visible
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rioting in Umbarg has been quelled, with over 50 arrests made by the local law enforcement and over 2 dozen injuries, mostly among said law enforcement. KSA HQ suffered some minor exterior damage (was not explicitly targeted thankfully) but no staff were onsite
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we don't mess around when it comes to calculating launch profiles for our rockets. How do we get the precise surface area that will be encountering the atmosphere on ascent? A new KSPTOT wiki article reveals all: github.com/Arrowstar/ksptβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Umbarg has declared a state of emergency as protests over the arrests made late yesterday have begun to turn violent. All the astronauts made it back to KSC safely late yesterday well before demonstrations started to get out of control
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the report is a good sign because an attempt by the government to contain this would have been disastrous. Still, while it's being made known that this is happening there's still been no official word on *why*. We'll be sure to continue to share whatever info we can
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
BREAKING: new development in the C7 investigation as reported by KNN is that an operation in Umbarg just finished rounding up several of the prominent airship Barons and "detained" them in a similar manner to the C7 executive division. Craziness!!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronauts are kicking off the weekend with a bar crawl to celebrate Bill's 40th birthday! π₯β¨π Keep an eye out for them around Umbarg, Bill's home cavern, and maybe you'll get an autograph and photo op! Check on Bill's KSA achievements here: ops.kerbalspace.agency/?crew=bill
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
there's also something different about the appearance of Sarnus in the previous photo. Can anyone tell us what it is? Furthermore can anyone take a guess as to why? Astronomers have a hunch we'll share with everyone on Monday & call out anyone who got it right
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
taken yesterday, the Kerman Observatory has just released the latest photo of Sarnus, seen at greatest southern declination - one of the best times to view the rings, even with a small telescope! Slate & Tekto are obvious but Eeloo & its shadow are a bit hidden in the rings
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
poor weather today has scrubbed the Deuce mission, which will have to once again be put on indefinite hold until C7 gets their affairs back in order or Jeb & Val have some more free time from their training - capsule sim is nearly fixed & they will be back at it tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rolling out of a smooth touchdown, Val will taxi the Deuce back to parking outside the HAB. Repairs to the capsule simulator are ongoing as expected so they will make another attempt tomorrow, departing again at 2nd sunset prior to the LES pad abort test the following day cycle
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
60km out Flight has confirmed weather is good over KSC and cleared Val to begin descent to land on Rwy09. Here is a look at their flight data. First a storm at sea (visible at night by the lightning) then two cases of continuous severe turbulence. Just unfortunate luck
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Deuce has departed under barely-VFR weather conditions but climbing out southeast over the water they don't have to worry about terrain obstruction. Jeb has command for this leg of the flight with Val navigating and managing comms from the right seat
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
break time for the astronauts? Hardly! Bill will be helping to fix it, Bob will be helping to re-write the sim software while Jeb & Val plan a Deuce flight for tomorrow to take care of a contract that's been laying in wait since the C7 Aerospace fallout
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
one of Flight Director Lanalye's sim scenarios got a bit *too* realistic in shorting out part of the capsule console and actually damaged some of the instruments, necessitating repairs that will last at least two days
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
safe travels to the high-altitude KB team setting out today for bit.ly/Area_23-KTB. They will be releasing two separate payloads to see how each one meanders across the mountains. They'll be gone for about 2 weeks
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
also a fact that may not be obvious to some is that Alaba is indeed rotating, although the exact rate and movement about the various axis of motion is still not yet known and will require much more observation. Point is, this is why all 4 photos look different
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
if you're not sure what you're seeing, surface features that were pointing more or less at the observatory at the time bounced back radio waves with varied strength, leading to the brighter (more) and darker (less) areas. The graininess is a result of various interference
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Arekibo Radio Observatory has been working on imaging bit.ly/_Alaba, which is the closest moonlet that passes overhead the most often. These are the first radar imgs to be released (not taken) of the moonlet. They hope to further improve the technique as time progresses
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSC security had to escort off campus a group of flat-Kerbiners protesting outside of our Admin building. Everyone's entitled to their own (wrong) opinions and sharing them but we're not going to allow you to do so here. Even more disturbing: it was a senior school field trip
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although the development of the Mk7 is largely based upon the previous iterations of the Progeny rocket, it will still be the first to use the Launch Vehicle Designer for initial confirmation on meeting design requirements ahead of a flight test: bit.ly/KSP_TOT
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the plan of course is to return all RTGs under chute at the end of the satellite's mission for reuse or at the end of their lifespans but we have to also be prepared for a worst-case scenario where a planned recovery fails & the satellite crashes into the surface instead
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
while the RTG casing has been proven to contain the radiation, one of the Mk7's first missions will be to launch a dummy satellite which will be crashed down onto Kerbin to assure that the RTG can withstand the impact and not leak any radioactive material
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
kuudite-powered radioisotope thermoelectric generators, which have been under development since late 2017, have proven to be reliable sources of energy that could power our first satellites, although the Progeny Mk7 will be needed to finish qualification
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
high-altitude KerBalloon crew have sealed the deal on a contract today to head out to the Great Desert next week and explore air patterns over a complex keographic feature of mountainous terrain along with a keological team expedition
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
congratulations to the KerBalloon program on surpassing ππ100 balloon releasesππ with their latest mission! a great milestone - here's to many more π₯ They are closing in on another big milestone too - anyone see it? kerbalspace.agency/?page_id=2041
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here's another photo from one of their release locations, several lakes (2 of 7 shown here) where the water level periodically raises due to groundwater forced up from an aquifer and becomes a single giant lake that is a temporary tributary to the Kongo
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-alt KerBalloon team returned home a few hours ago, completed 4 successful releases and recoveries. They did lose one of our 3 remaining UTVs to a sinkhole but thankfully the crew inside managed to get out in time and it was a fuel carrier so no equipment was lost
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Jeb boasted he's been simming so hard he could do a mission blind folded. Flight Director Lanalye told him to prove it. It did not go well. Worse - she now has new ideas for impaired vision emergency practice scenarios
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
β¨π KERZZAHH!! πβ¨ Third time the charm! News has reached us sooner than we hoped - rocket landed so close to shore it washed up on the beach. No snacks for sea creatures this time! Payload is intact and on its way back to KSC, we'll get it first thing tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the rocket's last known position was 342km downrange, which means it could still travel another 20-30km before splashdown. This puts it ~3hrs beyond our planned landing area. A lengthy delay in recovery is what lead to the loss of the previous rocket to attempt this mission...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
through apokee now, the rocket has begun its descent back towards Kerbin. Already 179km downrange, it will be traveling far further than we anticipated, even based on previous launches. MSV Lymun should already be moving to intercept. All systems remain nominal
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have liftoff!! Lower 0.625m booster has ignited with an intial force of 67.2kN to push the rocket off the pad at ~4Gs. It will burn for ~34 seconds and stage a second later. The rocket will then coast until its nose drops 1.5Β° before igniting the 2nd stage SRB
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] no issues arose during rehearsal & weather desk still holding the thumb up high when asked so we are GO for final countdown! Range Safety Officer setting up to close the pad, airspace and waters around KSC. Pad crew doing final check to ensure rocket is secure
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
snapped just a few minutes ago by a pad worker, here's a sense of scale as he was standing on the ground looking up to take this photo. On the pad attached to the launch base the rocket stands 12m tall
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[HOLD] preflight is complete and still no storms brewing so we will enter a planned hold, resetting the launch time to 19:00 UTC for an optimal flight path through the inner radiation belt. Launch countdown will pickup again in 1 hour at L-1h20m
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h55m] we're feeling pretty confident that if a storm hasn't sprung up by now, it's not going to. Monolith temple remains chilled, A/C functioning nominally. Preflight ops now moving into engine systems & ignition checks as pad crew clears out of harms way
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
please, all guests remain within the designated viewing areas for your safety in the event of a launch mishap and also in the event that severe weather does spring up. Either way you will want to get indoors quickly!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Monolith temple was not kept chilled all this time due to a service held late yesterday. Chill down has begun again ahead of launch operations kicking off at 14:00 UTC. It takes about 5 hours to reach sub-zero temperatures
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-5)
3/12
#2π 07:24:05 π11:08:07
#3π 13:24:56 !!π!! π17:08:58
#4π 19:25:47 π23:09:49
3/13
#1π 01:26:38 π05:10:40
@ KSC (UTC-5)
3/12
#2π 07:24:05 π11:08:07
#3π 13:24:56 !!π!! π17:08:58
#4π 19:25:47 π23:09:49
3/13
#1π 01:26:38 π05:10:40
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all readiness reviews have been approved by Ops Director @DKerman_KSA and we are π GO FOR LAUNCH! π weather forecast tomorrow is 90% favorable with a small chance of high surface winds. Review launch time and all mission details via the Ops Tracker: ops.kerbalspace.agency
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all hands on deck today as the Progeny Mk6 preps for rollout and launch readiness reviews are completed across the campus. Monolith temple A/C has already begun to chill down the interior to below freezing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
another photo from the Kongo River basin where the low-altitude KerBalloon crew released from on Thursday. This lowland by the mountains north of the river mouth was once a flooded marshland several hundred thousand years ago
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
what a later launch time does is rotate us under the region of the inner radiation belt that is the most-compressed by the kerbolar wind and closer to the surface of the planet, which means the payload will spend more time within the belt
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
while the launch remains on schedule for next Tues, a note for all planning to watch: L-0 set early as possible to give us time to adjust Monolith temple temps if storms form. If storms fail to form or abate, we will hold @ L-1h30m and wait for a mid-day cycle launch @ 19:00 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
A/C installation to the Monolith temple has been repaired and is operating normally. It will be offline today and over the weekend for worshipers to attend prayers then undergo a full test on Monday as part of launch readiness preps
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
C7 Aerospace continues to suffer from lack of executive management and the company remains effectively shut down. @DKerman_KSA has returned from Sheltered Rock with few answers. What the government is keeping a lid on, no one knows still but it's a tight lid
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
up it goes! The Mk1 capsule begins integration today with the Ascension Mk1 lifter while the next Progeny Mk6 waits in the background for its launch attempt the following week. Note the RCS thrusters, which we neglected to include in the infographic released last month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ππ happy 38th birthday π to Commander Valentina! ππ Here's to many more π₯ learn more about Val's background and service history on her Ops Tracker page: ops.kerbalspace.agency/?crew=val
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
standard fire alarm drill here at KSC went off without a hitch. It's not always as simple as immediately exiting the building - many facilities have to also try and ensure equipment and/or science samples are secured to prevent the possibility of even further damage
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-alt KB crew doing well out in the Kongo River basin. Here's near where they released their second balloon earlier this week, along the bank of the river looking east as it turns northwards before bending back westward & meandering another ~700km towards the sea
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
16 known asteroids was the tally for last month, with one impact. This puts things back on average with this time last year and the uptick in discoveries/impacts during late 2018 seems to have subsided
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
monolith temple A/C install was completed over the weekend however the system broke down shortly after it was turned on. Contractor has looked into the issue and says it will take the remainder of the week to repair. New L-0 for next launch is now 3/12 @ 18:10 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we once again bid farewell to Aldeny & Tedman, who will be returning to flight instructor duties while this whole C7 mess is sorted out. If Ascension can free up Val and/or Jeb every now and then, Genesis may still be able to fly missions with the Deuce & Civvie
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
high-altitude KerBalloon team has pulled back into port at Umbarg. Nasty weather delayed their travel but did not cause any damage. Although they failed to recover one balloon, spare parts allowed them to release the 2nd, which was recovered successfully
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
spending the last two days searching up to several hundred meters from around the test stand to collect all the debris, the HAB is being used during its downtime to hold everything and allow investigators to rebuild things and conduct their review of the engine explosion
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Joolean moons on display in the previous tweeted photo are (L-R) Laythe, Vall and Tylo, which is currently transiting its shadow across the planet, darkening the southern hemisphere as the sun is 1.3Β° above its equator
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the latest image of Jool released by the Kerman Observatory, taken earlier today, shows it at greatest southern declination, shortly after reaching opposition back on the 22nd. We are staring down on its northern hemisphere - a slight tinge of blue at the pole is aurora
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today's accident with the 1.25m test stand will not affect Progeny Mk7 development, as its new vacuum engine is small enough to test at Rockomax's own facility. The Viklun 1.25m vac engine will simply be tested during unkerbed flight as it is far & away by the time it ignites
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all previous engines passed static fire testing without issue & Ascension Mk1 capsule test flights are still GO. However, until the investigation concludes no kerbed flights will be conducted. Astronauts are bummed, but everyone understands crew safety is paramount
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all safety protocols were followed & no one was nearby when the incident occurred. Test stand will be rebuilt after a thorough investigation looks over it and the remains of the engine as well as test data to attempt to determine what went wrong
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
earlier today before 2nd sunset the latest K2-X engine was undergoing a routine ascent simulation static fire on our test stand. Some fault during testing led the engine to explode, causing irreparable damage to the test stand and rattling the windows of the R&D complex
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have learned all we know from the press conference just held: kerbalspace.agency/?p=8781 this will have an immediate impact on fixed-wing flight here at the Cape, however the long-term impact is still largely speculative since more details have yet to be released by authorities
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
BREAKING: KNN has reported that the entire executive division of C7 Aerospace has been arrested and the government is launching a full scale investigation into the company. We are partners with them and have no idea what is going on - this is all news to us!!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
servicing for the Deuce is completed and it's being rolled back out to its parking spot on the tarmac. Genesis is working on closing a deal for its next contract mission this week after negotiations fell through on an earlier planned contract at the start of Feb
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a visitor today asked their guide a reasonable question: why haven't we used the Ascension Mk1 Block II to try to make orbit? It would certainly get the rocket moving faster, but the real issue is following a proper ascent profile - it can't steer any better than a Block I
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the aircraft is taxiing back to the HAB after an uneventful (if still a bit rough) landing. It was scheduled for downtime & inspection after this test anyways but it seems there will be more to look at than we thought. Glad to have the crew home safe!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
coming around for final approach Tedman has had no trouble controlling the aircraft as normal and Aldeny found no leaks in the cabin (cargo hold is not pressurized). They have been cleared for landing back on Rwy09, emergency vehicles have still been prepped & are standing by
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
aircraft is heading back to KSC, leveled off at 4km ASL after the flight crew declared an emergency and made a rapid descent once loss of cabin pressure was detected by the onboard systems. They are back in breathable air now, report aircraft feels structurally sound
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
another record broken! Fist-pound in the cockpit as Dhumla zooms through 8.516km and continues climbing, approaching the West Shore Desert with comms and telemetry being relayed through Umbarg aerial. Progress will continue to be slow, vertical speed @ ~2m/s
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the view out Aldeny's window just a minute ago as they passed through some light clouds and over the mountains, climbing for 9km, maybe even 10km ASL. Throttles wide open, vertical speed is still 10m/s and pitch authority is only half used up
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with rudder at full deflection and a slight bank, aircraft can indeed hold heading at 80% throttle while maintaining 4km! Aircraft will remain in this configuration a bit longer to collect more data then both engines will be restarted for a climb to maximum altitude
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
whoo! Reaching speeds up to just over mach 0.7 and pulling up with peak 4.7G and 4.9G we are happy to report the aircraft still has both wings attached π Flight crew is re-establishing a trimmed-out cruise at 4km ASL before moving on to engine-out tests
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
satisfied with stall recovery, flight crew is moving on to G-loading. Tedman will climb back to 4km then initiate a dive, pulling out at up to 4-5Gs. If the engineers ran their numbers right, the wings shouldn't rip off. Even if we do it twice in a row...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good departure from Rwy09, aircraft is climbing out along runway heading for 2.5km. Most maneuvers will be done over the Kerblantic just east of KSC. We have our rescue boat in the area ready to move in should the aircraft end up in the water for whatever reason
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
running a bit behind schedule, flight crew has radioed for taxi/takeoff clearance. Today's test will finally put the aircraft through its paces while in the air and cover many things: stalls, G-loading, engine-out and service ceiling
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
weather conditions are improving as expected after high winds earlier today. Dhumla is rolled out and ground crews are prepping the aircraft for Flight Officers Tedman & Aldeny, who are in the ready room suiting up ahead of briefing. Wheels up @ ~00:10 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Engineer Simon reports the horizontal fins for the next Ascension Mk1 lifter have been removed and meticulously replaced at a 5Β° angle to cause the rocket to naturally nose downwards. Seems slight, but these fins are quite large & will have a noticeable effect
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
additional Ascension news includes a look at the complete assembly of the Mk1 capsule. Decision has been made for the Launch Escape System to undergo a pad abort test prior to the next Ascension launch, which will push it back closer to the middle of March
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
both of the K2-X engines that were delivered back at the end of Jan have been successfully static-fired on our test stand and are finishing up their refurbishment & integration into the Ascension Mk1 lifters. 5th engine received yesterday will be tested next week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Dhumla has been cleared to continue flight trials. Aldeny & Tedman have been putting extra hours into the sim, which is now even better thanks to actual flight data. Weather forecast for tomorrow looks poor until after 3rd sunset, so possible flight after 3rd sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
heavy-duty A/C for the Monolith temple wasn't as hard a sell as feared - pilgrims also didn't like the storms & have already agreed to keep the temple clear during launch operations anyways so no one cares if it gets super chilly in there. Hopefully it will be rdy by next launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we forgot to make note yesterday that with the added ballast weight and a greater load of fuel the takeoff mass of the Dhumla set a new bit.ly/KSARecords for Heaviest Aircraft Flown (14.493t - over twice what was previously set by the Deuce) and it's not done yet!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
low-altitude KerBalloon crew is setting out today for the Kongo River Research Center to carry out several contracts over the next few weeks in and around the river basin. They along with all their equipment will be ferried over via airship by the end of the weekend
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a group of primary school kerblings were given a tour this afternoon by Cpt Jeb Kerman. They were disappointed at the lack of huge rockets but became inspired when Jeb told them maybe they should consider studying hard to one day come here and build them
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
touching down heavy in the first 1/4 of the runway still gave the crew plenty of distance to roll and come to a stop with reverse thrust. Tedman raised flaps right after touchdown to ensure the nose settled properly and no swerving was evident. Aircraft is taxiing back to HAB
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
passing abreast of KSC to the south on downwind leg Aldeny reports the aircraft feels much more naturally stable in pitch - nose still wants to drop (good!) but not nearly as much as before. No unbalance noticed during banks as steep as 30Β°
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after a smooth roll and rotation the Dhumla has climbed out with no issues, already approaching 1.5km ASL and Aldeny is beginning to come around to setup for an approach pattern, being mindful on the turns as CoM has been moved upwards almost atop CoL
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
FOs Tedman and Aldeny are finishing up their briefing to continue flight testing and will soon be heading out to begin preflight. We will be looking first to see how the Dhumla performs on takeoff/landing with the new ballast weights in the tail before moving into further tests
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronauts took time from their busy schedule to visit a school in Umbarg as part of their educational outreach. One kerbling asked what happens if you peed in your space suit. Bob promised him he would find out. Such bold frontiers to explore!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Ascension Mk1 capsule has been flight certified! The current one has undergone too many tests to safely carry an astronaut, but we can still use it for the next Ascension flight as a test vehicle. A new capsule for the first crewed flight is currently under construction
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
if you want to know whether the sun is up above the horizon anywhere on the planet, the Ops Tracker is able to display that via the sun/terminator layer on the surface map kerbalspace.agency/Tracker/trackeβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the times given in our daily tweets are actually *operational* sunrise/sunset times - when conditions are light enough to begin outdoor ops and dark enough they should cease if artificial light is not available
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSC officially stands for the Kerbal Space Center but many mistakenly refer to it as the Kerman Space Center. Maybe one day it will be the Kerbin Space Center because there will be some on other planets? Also, VAB is Vertical Assembly Building but some think V = Vehicle
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this is the first long-term prediction made since astronomers tried to propagate Alaba's orbit out several years - it was shown to be wrong just a few months later. We will see how accurate this prediction for Vieras turns out twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers have completed their prediction analysis for bit.ly/Vieras - it will likely be sticking around until early 2020 before it is tossed back out of the system by Mun. Here is a plot showing all 19 future encounter orbits in 3 major phases
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
almost... there... landing station for the sea cable was just completed near Umbarg and the overland cable was complete at the end of last year. Marine cable is making its way to shore and should be hooked up by the end of March
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
yesterday CFQ-454(D) exited the system and its new kerbolar orbit has been predicted to send it back our way and through Mun's SOI in 2035, making this the furthest prediction of a Mun encounter to date. Furthest prediction for Minmus pass is due in 2030, made back in 2017
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
tomorrow the High-Altitude KerBalloon crew (the program has added workers and split into two separate teams) will set off aboard a MSV for a 3-4 day journey to their research location, over 2,000km of sea travel. By air it would only be about half that distance
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
weather patterns in the area have gradually returned to normal since last weekend and overall the facilities came out of it okay, although that one freak hailstorm dropping 10-12cm diameter chunks of ice on us did crack some glass in HAB skylights
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerbin has many wonderful locales on the surface that we have explored over the past few years, you can check them all out in this photo album on our flickr page: flickr.com/photos/kerbal_β¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
amazing work from the construction company managing ATN/DSN North has brought the project back to within two months on schedule after their supply docks were wiped out. ATN/DSN South remains on track - both slated to begin ops in 2020 twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this flight analysis was also conducted in part with the Progenitor team, who were working on the finishing touches to the Progeny Mk7 design when Ascension made some requests for technology they'd like to see prototyped. Stay tuned for details next week!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the results are finally in from last month's Ascension Mk1 flight and there's still a lot of work to be done since much of the data was inconclusive in determining key aspects of the flight profile that we plan to send kerbals along kerbalspace.agency/?p=8614
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the idea is that if the Monolith was fooled by the warmer temple interior into thinking more energy existed for a storm, then making the inside cold will cause it to think not enough energy exists to try forming a storm in the first place
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Scientist Cheranne and her team are preparing to fight an uphill battle against religious leaders and get a heavy-duty air conditioning system installed in the Monolith temple before our next launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've been dealing with all kinds of wacky weather as the area stabilizes back to normal after the Monolith's meddling. Thankfully no launch or aircraft operations are currently on the table for the next several days, by which time hopefully things will have calmed down
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/KerBalloonProg⦠has two contracts it will satisfy as part of a science expedition that will sail to the furthest body of water, which is actually closer than you would think except for land getting in the way
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
β¨π KERZZAH!! πβ¨ MSV Hoodall has commed in from the recovery site and reports the rocket is aboard and they are headed back to port. Everybody happy this mission turned out alright despite all the adversity we faced getting it launched π₯
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
lift off! Lower booster is pushing the rocket upwards on a tail of flame, seen here from outside Launch Control. First stage will burn for 34 seconds and then detach at L+35s. Go Progeny go!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] Final readiness polls complete: Wx: GO; Range: GO; Flight: GO; Tracking: GO; Ops Director: Launch permission granted! π GO PROGENY π FTS to internal power, AFCS will go into active mode & begin terminal count in 3min. Ops Tracker: ops.kerbalspace.agency
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
upper atmosphere is looking better! Progenitor leads would like to have more time for it to calm further but feel we've pushed our luck far enough already and have decided to just move forward with launch. New L-0 time has been set for 15:45 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Launch Ctrl is prepping to return to full strength as KerBalloon crews outside get rdy to send up another balloon so we can see how conditions have changed. It's now down to a relatively chilly 47Β°F outside but rocket systems remain unaffected & should be okay at even lower temps
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-5)
2/10 ??π??
#2π09:25:47 π 11:36:08
#3π15:26:38 π 17:36:59
#4π21:27:29 π 23:37:50
2/11
#1π03:28:20 π 05:38:41
@ KSC (UTC-5)
2/10 ??π??
#2π09:25:47 π 11:36:08
#3π15:26:38 π 17:36:59
#4π21:27:29 π 23:37:50
2/11
#1π03:28:20 π 05:38:41
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
shift change is complete at Launch Control, rocket remains healthy. Temperature outside continues to slowly drop but it remains warmer inside the dome so perhaps Monolith isn't as smart as we'd like to think it is and still believes a storm is brewing outside
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's time for another emergency admin meeting. Given the Monolith seems to detect when we power on and off the rocket we are definitely NOT scrubbing at this time but when & how we can launch remains to be determined. Rocket is being disarmed but otherwise will remain @ the ready
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
HOLD! Weather desk has preempted the final readiness polls and reported extremely disturbed air overhead starting as low as 13km and continuing all the way to the upper atmosphere. So that's where all the storm energy went afterwards...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] pad is locked down and evacuating. RSO has closed the range and activated the Flight Termination System. Engines are ARMED for ignition. Everyone is trying to ignore all the concerned looks and muttering over at the weather desk
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] FD Lanalye reports her team is on task & alert. Weather outside is still completely calm - which has the weather desk puzzled but they had no immediate reason not to give a GO for final countdown. Ground crews heading back out to complete pad lockdown
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h20m] balloon is away and countdown has restarted, now working towards a new L-0 of 01:12 UTC. This mission has no dependency on launch time although daytime would be best. Controllers are giving the rocket systems a full checkout while crowds begin to gather outside again
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it is now so still outside, the silence is eerie. KerBalloon crew are prepping to launch the balloon right outside the VAB. We did not expect it to be this calm after the storm but we will take it & hope we can complete the countdown before things change!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
storm is tailing off and weather desk reports the system is collapsing - which may not actually lead to better conditions but we will continue to wait & see. Rocket remains on ground power and healthy, ground crew returned to VAB hours ago
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're seeing noticeable weakening at this time, with winds blowing moderately and no longer gusting. Lighting strike frequency is decreasing rapidly. Umbarg however has reported a noticeable drop in surface temperature - from how far can the storm suck energy??
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we'll update on the hour as necessary. Storm appears to maintain its ferocity but detailed weather data is showing it is indeed beginning to weaken. Cheranne posits it is more dependent on the energy in the surrounding area than however much energy the Monolith itself has
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h30m] HOLD - preflight is complete but we can't proceed with launch of the weather balloon while the storm rages on. MSV Tongjess is offshore watching the storm but is not close enough to be affected by it. Now it's time to sit, wait & see if Cheranne's hypothesis is correct
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h55m] storm is definitely not as strong as the last one, but it's still packing some decent winds with ground strikes continuing. Pad remains clear & launch team is pressing on to engine and ignition checks
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here comes the drop! The few visitors who went back out are running back inside while the pad crew again shelters. Controllers remain on console performing preflight operations on the rocket, which will stay powered up. Rumbling overhead increases...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h40m] diagnostics complete, rocket suffered no damage. New L-0 time is 21:43 UTC. Pre-flight continuing. Tankers have been returned to the VAB and pad crew are securing the rocket. Security is trying to tell spectators they should remain inside still
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
FD Lanalye is having her team power up the rocket and run diagnostics. Once they are ready to proceed with the count we will reset the clock at L-2h40m. If the storm returns, we will proceed as far as possible before holding to try and wait it out
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we will be making another launch attempt. Lead Scientist Cheranne came barging into the meeting with compiled weather data and laid out her hypothesis that the Monolith was losing energy and could not maintain the storm indefinitely if we pressed on
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
storm is fading. It lasted a bit longer but did not seem to be as powerful as the two before it. Rocket suffered no direct hits and should still be ready for flight. Ground crew remaining sheltered while rocket stays fueled. Admin meeting underway to determine if we attempt again
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it is imperative that all visitors remain within the designated areas when allowed to go outside as this will keep you near shelter in the event of additional storms. KSC mess is open to all & food will also be available in the VAB
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket is once again powered off to help protect it from the storm, which does not seem to be building quite as fast as we expected. Progenitor leads, FD Lanalye & @DKerman_KSA will have a meeting after this storm dies down to discuss our options
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
HOLD COUNT! Tanker crews were unhooking the fuel lines when the weather desk rang out an alert of pressure drop. Pad is evacuating, trucks were parked off to the side and everyone sheltering in the bunker. Crowds outside are streaming back indoors. Here we go again...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h55m] rocket software is loaded and vehicle is configured - we are GO for tanking operations. Skies are now partly cloudy but scattered, not organized like the storm. Atmospheric pressure nominal. Fuel trucks are on their way to the launch pad from the VAB
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h10m] the bad weather dissipated almost as fast as it arrived and we have clear skies once again. We are restarting the countdown and powering the rocket back up. Ground crew was in the bunker and are already at work on the pad. New L-0 time is 19:12 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
storm is already abating - it seemed to be as intense as the previous one two days ago but did not last as long. Rocket suffered no direct hits and once we have better conditions we feel our best option is to roll back to L-3h10m and just try again
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h55m] NO GO for fueling. Pressure drop has already begun and the stars are beginning to vanish overhead. We are powering off the rocket and preparing for the coming storm. Everyone confident the service towers will protect the rocket as they did last time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h10m] we are GO to begin pre-launch operations. Eyes are on the sky but a picture-perfect sunset is all that we see from outside Launch Control. Ground crews heading out to the pad while controllers get on console and begin to power up the rocket
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h10m] we're back at the top of the countdown, all crews have reported on site and are getting organized. Weather forecast is 90% favorable - for all the good it'll do if the Monolith decides to act out. As always we'll update at the following milestones:
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-5)
2/9
#2π09:22:23 π 11:32:44 !!π!!
#3π15:23:14 π 17:33:35
#4π21:24:05 π 23:34:26
2/10
#1π03:24:56 π 05:35:17
@ KSC (UTC-5)
2/9
#2π09:22:23 π 11:32:44 !!π!!
#3π15:23:14 π 17:33:35
#4π21:24:05 π 23:34:26
2/10
#1π03:24:56 π 05:35:17
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Engineer Simon reports the rocket has checked out okay, no damage received from the nearby lightning strikes. It will be remounted later today and the next launch attempt has been scheduled for tomorrow @ 17:18 UTC - weekend visitors get a show!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
meteorologists have been analyzing the data collected from yesterday's storm and have confirmed that it did somehow seem to coalesce right on top of us. Actually, just a little ways to the north is where the low pressure center appears to have been located. HRRRMMMMMMM....
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
capsule simulator has gotten a lot less buggy and faulty, meaning more training runs for the astronauts to do battle with Flight Director Lanalye, who has been coming up with increasingly more creative ways to kill them. So far she's still winning 248 failures to 129 successes
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
storm has cleared and crews are unmounting the rocket while most of the visitors have stuck around to help clean up. We don't expect to hear from the VAB on the rocket's condition until sometime tomorrow at the earliest
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
damage around the space center due to high winds was minimal - we don't leave many loose objects to fly around normally but in the rush to get visitors inside chairs and other items were left at the mercy of the winds. No injuries to report either thankfully
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
storm seems to be abating. Lead Engineer Simon has already had a meeting with Progenitor leads and agreed the rocket should be unmounted and returned to the VAB for inspection given its proximity to the strikes. It did not appear to get hit directly
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch has been scrubbed, rocket is powered down - we're getting multiple ground strikes around the area. Thankfully the Ascension service tower is higher than the rocket and has a lightning rod. Winds are howling but launch base is heavy & also secured to the ground
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
wow it got intense out there real quick. Sun was already setting and it managed to get even darker out as heavy clouds seemed to materialize overhead, though it was tough to see under the night sky exactly how they formed. We're getting lots of thunder & cloud lightning
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h55m] we are NO GO for fueling ops, weather desk has come back and told tankers to remain in the VAB as they monitor a rapid pressure drop. Ground crews are being told to secure the pad and shelter in the bunker - a strong storm is blowing in off the water it seems
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h10m] we are GO from the weather desk to begin launch operations. Ground crews are heading out to the launch pad while controllers get on console to wake up the rocket. Visitors have begun to be bused over the causeway from the Support Village
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-3h40m] briefing is getting underway at Launch Control as Flight Director Lanalye lays out the mission plan. This rocket will fly exactly like the last Mk6-I (kerbalspace.agency/?p=8341), exposing its two sample containers the same way. We also have the recovery ship better positioned downrange to react to any abnormal ascent events
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-5)
2/7
#2π09:15:35 π 11:25:56 !!π!!
#3π15:16:26 π 17:26:47
#4π21:17:17 π 23:27:38
2/8
#1π03:18:08 π 05:28:29
@ KSC (UTC-5)
2/7
#2π09:15:35 π 11:25:56 !!π!!
#3π15:16:26 π 17:26:47
#4π21:17:17 π 23:27:38
2/8
#1π03:18:08 π 05:28:29
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
modifications and repairs to the aircraft are expected to take 2-3 weeks so hopefully we can get in another test flight before the end of the month. In better news, the overall flight data was extremely satisfying to engineers & the aircraft looks solid when aloft
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bounciness on both landings was due to Tedman holding so far back on the yoke at touchdown to keep the nose up even a little bit. The vertical strake will be modified to hold weights that will shift CoM further towards the rear. Can be removed if needed when carrying cargo loads
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
C7 & Genesis have finished their initial review of the Dhumla and its flight data. Gear is damaged, but thankfully can be repaired without needing to be replaced. Greater concern is lack of pitch authority at landing speeds making the aircraft tough to settle on landing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this week's launch remains on schedule with the rocket stacked yesterday and today has been laid back horizontal for final checks which will extend into tomorrow before it is loaded up and trucked out to the pad ops.kerbalspace.agency
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Dhumla will shortly be parked back in the HAB and have engineers and mechanics swarming all over it. Sometime tomorrow we should know more about its condition and how pleased designers are (or aren't) with its flight performance after reviewing the test data
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a few more slight bumps on landing but halfway down the runway the aircraft finally settled and additional reverse thrust was applied to bring them to a stop shortly afterwards. Taxiing back to the HAB now, Ted says he can feel something off with the undercarriage
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
back on final approach, gear is confirmed down and locked - phew! May still be damaged though so Ted is trying to approach even flatter and really hopes to grease this next attempt. Fuel remains for several more but main concern is the gear right now
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
gear raise was just part of the checklist so was done without thought. If they are damaged & can't be lowered again flight crew will shut down engines, lock propellers and glide down to ditch in the water just offshore. Rescue boat remains on standby
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ted performed another T&G when the aircraft refused to settle on the runway. In fact it rebounded into the air several times rather hard. Gear was raised okay but everyone now wondering if it should have been retracted at all. Photo from approach just before initial landing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
coming down too steep, Ted had to level out and coast over almost half of the runway before touching down. Full throttle and pulling up flaps got the aircraft back into the air before running out of runway. Flight crew feel good about going full stop on their next attempt
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Dhumla has flown by over head and is already turning north and re-configuring to setup for another pattern approach, right-turn this time. Ted says he has a good feel for it, will perform a touch and go as planned
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
nothing to report during the maneuver tests - Dhumla reached angles upwards of 40Β° both directions and flight crew reports no rollover - they can bank and the aircraft holds its position after controls are centered. Excellent! Ted has now begun to descend back towards KSC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
away they go! ~700m of roll followed by a smooth rotation off the runway with a steady 15-17m/s positive rate of climb. Aircraft is cleaned up - flaps & gear raised - as it passes through 800m continuing on runway heading until 2km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
everyone pensive after FD Lanalye granted take off clearance to the aircraft sitting out on Rwy27. Any moment now the 4 engines will roar and propel the vehicle down the runway and up to take off speed of 80m/s, or Vr - rotate! Control yoke will be pulled back and....
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
briefing has wrapped, Flight Officers Tedman and Aldeny are heading out to begin preflight while controllers get their consoles setup to monitor. Plan will be takeoff to 2.5km ASL, basic maneuvers, landing pass, touch & go, full stop landing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our brief unexpected foray out into inter-planetary space found much less radiation than predicted, which is great news. How far our magnetotail stretches in the opposite direction is still unknown, but could potentially cross Mun orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
second belt cannot be avoided when leaving Kerbin orbit, but it is not as dense or as wide as the inner belt so can be traversed with minimal shielding as vessels will be traveling through at high velocities
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the prominent journal Science Source has published our paper discussing the radiation data from the recent Progeny MK6-II launch. The highlights are the confirmation of the second outer radiation belt and discovering the sunward boundary of the magnetosphere!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
weather should hold for good conditions to finally allow for a flight trial later today after 2nd sunrise. Ground crew are already organizing to get the Dhumla prepped for flight, maritime crew also driving our safety boat down to launch into the water
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ARO also announced they will be investigating the possibility of signals being detected transmitting from the Joolean system. Many were hoping for confirmation of signal detection of course, but the observatory is playing it cautious. We approve
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the huge 200m dish at the Arekibo Radio Observatory officially begins science operations today - congrats to all the project members! Remote observation is also possible, scientists from all over Kerbin have proposed time on the radio telescope, also capable of active RADAR
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
video from shortly after launch showing the radial boosters cleanly dropping from the rocket and then getting buffeted by the exhaust as they fall away. That one that got flung off to the left actually crashed into the service towers youtube.com/watch?v=jqhS8bβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
over in the VAB vertical stacking of the next Progeny Mk6 Block I has been underway starting today. Rocket assembly remains on schedule for launch next week. After this expect longer periods between launches as we finish clearing out our mission backlog
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ascension capsule has completed its test regimen and is undergoing final certification review, which will take about 2 weeks as engineers look over the copious amounts of data collected, as well as conduct one last thorough inspection of the capsule itself
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/KSARecords have been updated, with yesterday's flight setting two new records for Highest Altitude over Kerbin (In Space) and Longest Mission Distance. If there are any other records you think we should be tracking, let us know!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
unfortunately the crater rim around Arekibo has blocked the signal & we lost comms prior to re-entry. This concludes the mission - no recovery will be made as it will be cheaper to buy new parts than mount an expedition into a remote section of the planet to maybe find it intact
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
acquisition of signal from Arekibo! Data downlink was good - mission success!! Everything after this point is just icing on the cake now that we have the data from the long coast. Keeping an eye on the comm link for more 1min pings until vessel nears the atmosphere
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the long journey up has come to an end at last - time for the equally long journey down now from apokee of 3.1Mm. Post-launch operations are complete and everyone is hanging in or around Mission Control to wait for the vessel to come back into comms range in ~1hr
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Engineer Simon has reported that the service tower sustained no serious damage when one of the radial boosters came crashing back down into it. Although the drop away was clean from the rocket they were not flung very far. Another landed on the bunker, which didn't care
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
HOLY WOW - we had a good full 61s burn on the third stage engine & are now coasting up to an apokee of 3,124km! It will take the rocket just over one hour to climb that high. Everyone is ecstatic at the phenomenal performance demonstrated on this flight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
nominal ascent so far. New method of just releasing the radial boosters w/o pyro push letting the rocket spin & aero forces fling them away was enough to remove strike hazard. 3rd stage boost has just kicked off and apokee is rising faster & faster - go Progeny go!!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
quintuple booster ignition and LIFT OFF! Away shoots the 2nd Progeny Mk6 Block II off to explore further than any probe before in a search for new regions of space. Radial boosters will detach after just 6 seconds - hopefully they drop off without fin impact this time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] Final readiness polls complete: Wx: GO; Range: GO; Flight: GO; Tracking: GO; Ops Director: Launch permission granted! π GO PROGENY π FTS has now switched over to internal power, launch team is prepping for the AFCS to go into active mode & begin terminal count in 3min
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-1h20m] second balloon has been released - here's hoping for better results! Rocket remains healthy out on the pad and we made sure all visitors who continued to stick around had access to the KSC mess hall behind the Astronaut Complex
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all ground trials complete and flight trials for the Dhumla begin tomorrow! Genesis confirmed swerving issue was due to wheel brake use compressing the nose gear beyond safe limits and will not affect take off. Ted & Aldy say they are ready to continue breaking records π
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
flight controllers had to reboot the entire rocket just to change the launch time. Ugh! At least they will be busy until the countdown resumes getting the rocket reconfigured for flight. Our Ops Director has the technical details twitter.com/DKerman_KSA/stβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are scrubbing for this day cycle. Conditions will not be improving within the time remaining and we will have to send up another balloon, which also can't be done in the time remaining even if we released it now. New launch time has been set for 22:48 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch window is open until mid-day cycle @ 17:57. The reason for this is we know the radiation belt gets compressed closer to the planet thanks to the kerbolar wind & launching too late will make it harder to reach a possible second region of high radiation. Img is looking down on north pole
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] final polling complete & we are NO GO from the weather desk after they got the @upperlevelwinds data. Launch procedures are rolling back to L-15min and we will wait for additional analysis of the winds data to determine whether there's a chance of launching later
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] we are GO to continue final countdown. Weather remains good, RSO reports water and airspace is clear, pad is secured and FD Lanalye confirms rocket has been ARMED for ignition. Flight Termination System is ACTIVE. Range is closed to all incursion
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all spectator areas are open, still some tickets remaining for the closer viewing areas. Hearing protection is recommended outdoors but not required. Also don't forget we will be launching before the sun gets high overhead so eye protection should be worn as well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with the new command interface to the AFCS, loading up the mission scripts is easier than ever. Controllers can batch the entire onload process into a single command file now instead of having to send over & verify files one by one
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
head on over to bit.ly/AFCS_ChangeLog to check out the latest updates to both the flight computer and mission software. We are excited to be using the hibernation capabilities for the first time on this launch, a vital test for future unkerbed orbital missions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the ascent for this mission was once again modeled with the Launch Vehicle Designer although it was not *planned* with the LVD and no changes were made to the vehicle or ascent profile based on LVD modeling. This is mainly another test against actual flight data
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the actual mission will differ from the 1st. For more info, visit the Ops Tracker and click on the title bar below the vessel photo to see the mission details. Changes have been made to the payload, fins, radial decouplers and overall mission duration ops.kerbalspace.agency/?db=progenymk6β¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-5)
1/31
#2π08:51:47 π 11:02:09 !!π!!
#3π14:52:38 π 17:03:00
#4π20:53:29 π 23:03:51
2/1
#1π02:54:20 π 05:04:42
@ KSC (UTC-5)
1/31
#2π08:51:47 π 11:02:09 !!π!!
#3π14:52:38 π 17:03:00
#4π20:53:29 π 23:03:51
2/1
#1π02:54:20 π 05:04:42
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tracking Station is ready to support tomorrow's launch, FD Lanalye has submitted her readiness report & says the team is drilled up. Wx looks good and rocket is mounted. Ops Director @DKerman_KSA has signed off on the paperwork - πGO PROGENY!π Pre-launch ops begin tmrw @ 12:07Z
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
PLOT ALL THE THINGS!! Ascension flight analysis is well underway and the team has plenty of things to look at when comparing the actual flight data to the planned flight data. Numerous deviations are evident and all need to be explained
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Engineer Simon & his VAB crews have a long day ahead of them doing final closeouts for the Mk6 Block II. It is three stages comprised of 38 parts not counting payload instruments, making it the most complex rocket we have designed to date
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronauts have begun their capsule sim training - or rather, have begun figuring out what's wrong with the capsule simulator training program. This is supposed to be easy?? We think not. Jeb has found the most problems so far. He says it's in his nature to break things
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Genesis and C7 have studied the data from last week and decided the Dhumla is ready for additional ground trials. Flight crew & FD Lanalye are working out the details with the engineers on what needs to be tested and how so they can carry out the mission tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
altho she fought hard against it, today Lead Scientist Cheranne was forced to remove all monitoring instruments from inside the Monolith dome, now officially a temple & under direct control of religious leaders. Guess who also recently announced a bid for re-election this year?
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
photo from this week's launch as the rocket passed through 25km, looking back towards KSC, nearly hidden by the expanding exhaust plume. This is well above the thickest part of the atmosphere, seen as a thin layer separating the horizon from the blackness of space
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although there is currently nearly an even split between Main Belt and NKOs, astronomers expect the Main Belt numbers to begin to pull away faster & faster from NKO discoveries as the years go on
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN have finally released their yearly asteroid census. Good to see the Main Asteroids clawing back towards majority - numbers below represent last year while a color next to a number is what the majority category was in 2017
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Flight Officers Tedman & Aldeny are back aboard the Dhumla and have fired up ALL FOUR engines to prepare for taxi! Ground crews have cleared the nose wheel but caution will still be taken at first to confirm it is in good working order
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here's the full video of the payload separation from yesterday. So smooth! A very small initial force was given to the payload at separation in case the RCS system failed & the 2 pieces would have eventually drifted far enough away by the time of re-entry youtube.com/watch?v=bqa7Wkβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all nominal on the left side, both engines are being shut down and the starboard side will now get its turn, following the same procedures. Here was the second engine start earlier. Beefy! youtube.com/watch?v=6K461Cβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Big Boi has just been tugged out of the HAB for the first time. Without the folding wings it wouldn't be able to fit through the doors! It will be parked for ground crews to prep it for ground testing. FOs Aldeny & Tedman can't wait to fire up all those engines
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
great news - payload was found buried 1/4 of a meter up its nose into the dirt of a hillside - which means those nose thrusters are probably a write-off but at least it didn't roll down the slope and the rest is in great shape! Mission success! KERZZAH!! ππ₯β¨
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
an airship was on standby & is being dispatched to the landing area. Chutes were mounted on the bottom to flip the payload over to land nose first, allowing a faster descent using smaller chutes & still protect the heat shield from damage so it can be inspected post-flight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're through apokee and on the way back down, control testing going well. Two control models are being put through pointing the rocket along the 6 main axis of orbit. Coarse control always uses full thruster power while a Fine control model adjusts the thruster output as needed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
beautiful confirmation of separation from the booster camera, which has a power/data cable hooked to the payload to give us this view for a few seconds before it gets pulled out. That is Eve just to the right and Jool up in the right corner
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
main engine ignition, throttle up and LIFT OFF for the 3rd Ascension Mk1 Block I, aiming to pave the way for sub-orbital kerbed spaceflight! Rocket has cleared the tower & guidance has kicked in, throttling up to full and pitching over towards the horizon, aiming for 70Β° by 10km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[T-1m] the flight computer will perform these final steps to ensure the rocket is ready for ascent when the engine clamp lets go at T-0. Any abort after T-30s final primary station poll will most likely be automated but controllers can call a hold all the way up to launch
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] Final readiness polls complete: Wx: GO; Range: GO; Flight: GO; Tracking Station: GO; Downrange Tracking: GO; Ops Director: Launch permission granted! πGO ASCENSIONπ FTS on internal power, service tower booms unlocked to prep for retraction, AFCS ready for terminal count
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the lack of full tanks led to some issues during the WDR earlier this week getting them up to flight pressure in time for launch during the final seconds of countdown and is why the launch was delayed so we could improve the pumping system in the service tower
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-13m] a truck still hooked up to the service tower has begun to pump nitrogen into pressure vessels on the rocket, which will then be used to pressurize the main tanks during the flight. Late onload protects pad workers from any rupture and explosion
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] it is literally the crack of dawn (Eve shining above) right now as we move into final countdown procedures with a GO from the weather team - all surface weather constraints are showing <5% chance of violation over the coming hour. Be nice, @upperlevelwinds!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are happy to be welcoming back the crowds for another launch, but please remember if you're outdoors hearing protection is REQUIRED. KSC employees will be on the lookout - anyone caught without it will be banned from future launches. Same goes for leaving designated viewing areas!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h47m] wrapping up early, still after two trips each for the fuel trucks, the tanks are topped off with a total of 5.95t of fuel, or 85% of full capacity. This will allow us to expend all the fuel on our trip to space and still stay within mission constraints
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all the control files contain just 1-2 lines of code, but we call a file instead of entering commands directly because the code in the files are run-checked for errors. Much easier for the flight computer to spot & handle a bad filename instead of bad code w/o crashing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
rocket is initialized, flight code has been onloaded to the flight computer, along with the various control commands that will be used once in space to test the new RCS system. You can check out the changes and new command additions via bit.ly/AFCS_ChangeLog
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
finally, we know from bit.ly/ProgenyMk6B1-5 that this trajectory can go as high as nearly 500km and still not encounter the radiation belt, making it a good option for future sub-orbital kerbed missions. A radiation instrument is onboard though just to make sure
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launching again on a 45Β° azimuth will take the rocket over Sheltered Rock & Ockr for downrange signal reception, which will allow it to travel the farthest distance and spend the most time in space while still coming down (hopefully) over smooth terrain or water
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here's another look at the mission and its goals. Three main objectives for this flight are:
βΎ gathering ascent data to compare to LVD predictions
βΎ testing the reaction control system & guidance
βΎ testing the heat shield ablative surface
βΎ gathering ascent data to compare to LVD predictions
βΎ testing the reaction control system & guidance
βΎ testing the heat shield ablative surface
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-4h] Flight Director Lanalye is getting the final mission briefing underway. They've been running drills for the past week once the mission design was locked in earlier this month. Here's what it looks like in the Launch Vehicle Designer
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-5)
1/24
#2π08:27:59 π 10:38:21 !!π!!
#3π14:28:50 π 16:39:12
#4π20:29:41 π 22:40:03
1/25
#1π02:30:32 π 04:40:54
@ KSC (UTC-5)
1/24
#2π08:27:59 π 10:38:21 !!π!!
#3π14:28:50 π 16:39:12
#4π20:29:41 π 22:40:03
1/25
#1π02:30:32 π 04:40:54
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after a long day of work resolving GSE issues we are happy to say that all is finally πGO FOR LAUNCH!π It's going to be an early day tomorrow, with pre-launch operations kicking off at 11:53 UTC. Everyone get some rest!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/KSARecords has also been updated for Longest Mission Distance, Longest Single Flight Distance, Longest Continuous Flight Time, Longest Distance from KSC and Heaviest Aircraft Flown. Only Jeb & Val's altitude, speed, & Gs records are still intact
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Deuce is taxiing back to the HAB after touching down w/o issue. It has logged 29 flight hours since 4/23/18 over a distance of 13,664km & is now being taken out of service for a full inspection - which is just fine considering focus will be on Dhumla testing for the near future
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
hailed by Aldeny, Flight has confirmed they are ready for descent and have given them permission to approach and land on Rwy27. While we await their arrival, here's another photo from yesterday as they flew over the Badlands, a very dry & rocky place compared to the Grasslands
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we just got this photo from the flight crew up at Ockr as they prep for departure shortly to return back to KSC. There was some consideration to heading northwards over the polar regions but the Deuce is actually overdue for servicing and needs to get home
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although this mission traveled 434km further than the last science flight, the fuel burn was nearly the same thanks to the aircraft cruising at a consistently higher altitude throughout the flight. With a pressurized cabin, the Deuce can do this comfortably
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a solid approach and landing by Aldeny, the aircraft is taxiing to the parking stand. Aldy will put them both up with his family at Ockr and they will return to KSC tomorrow. Here is a photo of sunrise earlier in the flight just as they began to see high terrain - great timing!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a few mins ago Ted hailed Ockr to report they were successful in their mission. Saw some lightning to the north during the Kerblantic crossing but hit no adverse weather in front of them. Great to hear! They are 140km out and have been given vectors to land on Rwy09
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
flight crew have completed preflight & the aircraft is taxiing out to Rwy27 for departure. It once again carries a full load of fuel and they could make it back to KSC from the Badlands if they need to. It will be daylight by the time they arrive over the target
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today's flight out to bit.ly/Area Z3N4 will be another record-breaker for sure and also will be the first aircraft to cross the Prime Meridian - yep, to date all aircraft missions have taken place in the western hemisphere of the planet
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the government has restricted further direct scientific research of the Monolith, deeming it a potential hazard. It will continue to be monitored remotely. The dome and close surrounding area will be converted into a temple for Monolithic followers
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
wet & dreary weather at the Cape throughout today - bring the rain gear if you've got a tour booked! This system should definitely move on before launch later this week but we can't yet forecast what might come after it by then
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
nevermind that we couldn't possibly survive this close to the sun, here's what it would look like if we were at Moho's closest approach on its orbit in our latest Kerbin Relocated rendering. The sun's apparent size would be 3x larger in the sky!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
that's not to say a whole lot didn't survive, but that research into sea life since returning to surface activities has been extremely low outside of commercial fishing. Hopefully more sightings by maritime services spur additional expeditions to explore the seas some more
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no sign was spotted in any of the photos the Deuce took of sea creatures at or near the surface of the water. Once again the hunt comes up empty. We are still aware of very few marine animals that have survived or evolved since the asteroid impact
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Extremis team members are still plugging away at trajectories. Still?? Yes - With so much open-endedness to what our future rockets/probes might be capable of they are working on many various possibilities. No complaints though, keeps them busy
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Deuce has been in the HAB this week getting fitted with a suite of science instruments to conduct a flight over the Badlands, which will be another long mission for FOs Ted & Aldy - 1.2Mm just to get there! bit.ly/GenesisProgram has the contract details
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the NRAP test weight has arrived to be integrated, which will complete the vertical stacking of the rocket. It has been designed to mimic the mass & size of the Mk1 capsule, and will test two important new technologies - a heat shield & reaction control system (RCS)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
successful test firing today of the second K2-X engine. We will have 2 more delivered at the end of the month and our last one in February. The other engine has already been integrated into the Ascension Mk1 rocket set for launch next week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
while everyone is still a bit bummed we have to chalk up another mission failure, we do have two more this month with which to redeem ourselves so looking forward and staying positive!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
while the Progenitor team still needs to take a close look at the additional telemetry data to try and determine why the rocket sank, at least we know the rocket did survive re-entry this time, which means the next launch with Science Jr instruments should be approved - date TBD
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
however the news isn't all bad! Tongjess did regain communication with the rocket after plasma blackout and has log recordings of it deploying chute, although full deployment and splashdown occurred just below the horizon
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
news at last!! Unfortunately, although they spent almost an hour searching the area, MSV Tongjess reports no sign of the rocket or its signal was found. If it did submerge at some point after landing, it could have easily sunk below crush depth before Tongjess arrived
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we had confirmation of door lock on the bottom goo canister prior to atmospheric interface @ +19m13s. Plasma blackout has occurred and we will not regain comms before the rocket drops below the horizon. Post-launch ops are continuing and we will await word from MSV Tongjess
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've passed through apokee, our highest point on the sub-orbital trajectory. Rocket is now beginning to fall back towards the atmosphere, which it will slam into at >2km/s in about 10 minutes. Top goo unit will remain exposed until we are back out of the radiation belt
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
and after just 1m29s we are back in space! We have about 8.5 minutes until 507km apokee. Bottom goo containment unit has already opened its doors to expose the sample. Hoodall is still tracking the 1st & 2nd stage boosters as they fall back to the Kerblantic
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
LIFTOFF!! Lower booster has ignited to push the rocket off the pad at 4Gs with 67kN of thrust. It will expire after 34 seconds, pushing the rocket up to >15km at speeds >600m/s. 2nd stage will coast until nose drops 1.5Β° before continuing powered ascent
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-5m] final readiness polls: Wx: GO; Range: GO; Flight: GO; Tracking: GO; Ops Director: Launch permission granted! π GO PROGENY π FTS is transitioning to internal power, flight computer is confirmed ready to initiate terminal countdown at L-2min
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
issues board remains clear, mostly a pensive silence in Launch Control as controllers carry out final checks possible now that booster engines are armed. Quiet is good! Team is ready, Lanalye will conduct the final general polls at L-5min
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-15m] RSO has closed all access to the launch pad and downrange areas - any violation will hold the count. Rocket's Flight Termination System has been brought online and boosters are ARMED for ignition. Sunrise was a few mins ago, taken from outside Launch Control
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-30m] we are GO for final countdown! Weather remains within limits from here on the ground, tho winds could pick up more as we get closer to sunrise. Balloon ascent remains nominal. Anticipation... increasing...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
tickets sold out to this launch, a first for the Progeny Mk6 but not surprising given its been so long since the last launch. First-come, first-serve areas still have plenty of room though. Please stay within designated spectator areas for your own safety!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
[L-2h55m] rocket is woke and system checks are underway. Meanwhile it has also been configured to begin tanking, crews on the pad have the GO to start loading up 109kg of liquid propellants to the third stage. Sunset has just faded below the horizon, bringing out the night sky
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today's launch will follow a standard Mk6-I mission profile. As with the previous attempt, we will be exposing the onboard goo samples to separate regions of space, both below and inside the radiation belt
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-5)
1/16
#2π08:00:47 π 10:11:09 !!π!!
#3π14:01:38 π 16:12:00
#4π20:02:29 π 22:12:51
1/17
#1π02:03:20 π 04:13:42
@ KSC (UTC-5)
1/16
#2π08:00:47 π 10:11:09 !!π!!
#3π14:01:38 π 16:12:00
#4π20:02:29 π 22:12:51
1/17
#1π02:03:20 π 04:13:42
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
tomorrow's launch forecast has improved with only 40% chance of violation - mainly surface winds. Upper-level winds are still unknown until we send up a balloon just prior to launch, so that also remains a possibility of further delay. Fingers remain crossed!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
weather forecast from yesterday has held mostly true - winds are not as bad as expected but rain has arrived. Lightning also seen in the area. We will postpone launch again until tomorrow @ 15:56 UTC. Forecast is still 60% chance of violation so fingers crossed!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
crews will bring the capsule aboard and further exercises will be conducted after the Progeny launch with the astronauts taking turns being loaded into the capsule on the deck then extricated while afloat under various simulated conditions, such as injuries, deflation, etc
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
recovery teams have reached the capsule after it splashed down and automatically deployed its built-in float collar, which will rest underneath the heat shield that would have by now been jettisoned after the chutes were deployed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
MSV Hoodall arrived yesterday to support today's launch, but since it has been delayed Hoodall will be taking the Ascension capsule out for its first sea trial this day cycle. Similar to tests last year, it will be dropped from 16km and recovered after splashdown
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π
Sunrise/Sunsetπ
@ KSC (UTC-5)
1/15
#2π07:57:23 π 10:07:45
#3π13:58:14 π 16:08:36 ??π??
#4π19:59:05 π 22:09:27
1/16
#1π01:59:56 π 04:10:18
@ KSC (UTC-5)
1/15
#2π07:57:23 π 10:07:45
#3π13:58:14 π 16:08:36 ??π??
#4π19:59:05 π 22:09:27
1/16
#1π01:59:56 π 04:10:18
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ground crew was a bit rusty but rocket has been mounted & secured. Weather for tomorrow is also not looking good, but forecasting is still a new thing and we will for now just delay the launch to the following day cycle @ 21:53 UTC as conditions may improve by then
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
launch base and launch pad have zero issues according to Lead Engineer Simon. Rocket is now on its way out to be mounted. Weather is looking pretty poor right now. Hopefully we will have a better forecast from the weather team later today
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Dhumla is finally holding its own weight, resting on the landing gear that completed installation today - the final major component. Now HAB crews are just finalizing some internal work before the aircraft is ready for ground testing next week!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
being stuck underground for so long gave society an excuse to develop a new way to mark the passage of time, but we still like to make note of a "kerbolar year" on occasions like today - the start of our 8th trip around the sun since the KSA was founded back in Sep 2016! π₯πβ¨
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Engineer Simon is happy to report that the Progeny Mk6-I set for launch next week has completed final integration in the VAB today. It will be rolled out on Monday after checks and maintenance are wrapped up on the pad, ensuring it is ready after not being used in so long
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've had arrival of the Deuce back at KSC along with its 4 passengers. Ted & Aldy have also officially ousted Jeb & Val as bit.ly/KSARecords holders for Longest Mission Distance, Longest Single Flight Distance and Longest Continuous Flight Time. Kerzzah!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
weather has cleared up here and we have word from Sheltered Rock that the Deuce has just departed. We're taking this opportunity to also ferry some USI employees from their HQ there that will be assisting with the upcoming Progeny launches this month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here's just one of nearly 15,000 photos that were taken during the overflight of the survey area. Scientists will be studying them all closely for any sign of large creatures near or breaking the surface. Ted & Aldy said they saw nothing but mainly had eyes on instruments
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we just got patched through to the Deuce, now in range of Sheltered Rock. They got our message on their way back and have diverted, are now inbound to land at SRG. Aldeny flew quite the comprehensive search pattern!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
airship & aircraft companies may not be friends, but pilots are pilots & airship captains are always happy to pass along radio messages. We aren't relying on them tho, flight protocols mandate Deuce has enough fuel remaining to divert if needed once they contact us directly again
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're getting reports of some severe weather whipping up out to sea that could be moving our way. We've sent notice via airships traveling to Sheltered Rock & Ockr to attempt to raise Tedman and suggest they divert to SRG instead of return to KSC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
winds calm, aircraft has departed from Rwy09 to set them on course. Aldy is climbing now through 800m to 2.5km from which they will cruise and conduct their surveillance over the target area. Last time we hunted for sea beasts was in a Civvie: kerbalspace.agency/?p=5707
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
still dark out here but dawn is fast approaching over bit.ly/Sector_JENH, and it will be daylight by the time Aldy & Ted travel the 444km to reach it as they taxi the Deuce out for departure to conduct their aerial survey mission
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Mun would have a bigger advantage if we weren't at the equator, and able to launch straight into a proper 6Β° inclined orbit for an efficient Minmus transfer burn. Looks like we have a lot more thinking to do when it comes time to design our 1st extra-planetary mission!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the biggest difference is time, of course. A ~2 day trip to Minmus is 7x longer than to Mun, even though it's only 4x farther away. Also, beyond arrival Ξv needed, a long enough mission could use significantly less fuel at Minmus than Mun thx to its smaller size
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
where to go first? Answer may seem obvious, but a study has shown that visiting either one is very close to being equal in terms of fuel required. If circularizing ~50km over the surface, total trip Ξv for Minmus is only ~70m/s less than Mun. ~80m/s less at edge of SOI
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
again mariners have reported signs of large sea creatures breaching in the distance but have found nothing on closer inspection. If they are still near the surface, hopefully an aircraft overflight will not spook them away. bit.ly/GenesisProgram has the contract to investigate
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the airstrip is planned to be completed in March or April. Meanwhile this victory signals that a shift towards more fixed-wing aviation is finally happening & the deal for KSC to become an aircraft hub for Umbarg seems more like a possibility
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
C7 Aerospace has just won a major legal/business battle with the airship companies to get approval for a runway to be built at the Kongo Research Base. It will still receive airships but now also pax/cargo via Deuce & in future hopefully Dhumla too
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/ProgenitorProg⦠has been able to drop a battery from the next Mk6-II mission & so have room for one more science instrument. They just closed a contract for the slot & plan to collect negative gravioli readings from the highest point in space yet reached
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kerman Observatory has released a new image of Moho it took with its 4m scope, enlarged here 10 times, showing the side of the planet that has significant and deep cratering, which makes sense - most of impacts this close to sun would be at high velocities
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today we got a stripped-down version of the Mk1 command pod that will be integrated into a simulator. All 4 astronauts are lending a hand getting it built while the actual pod prepares for drop testing next week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
looking over the photos, Lead Scientist Cheranne and her team were stunned to see the extent of the damage, seen here from 3.7km ASL. Brighter areas used to have lots of trees that are now just ash
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
because Rwy01/19 is a shorter runway, the approach has to be done slower than normal but Tedman managed not to stall out before reaching the marked runway and set the Civvie down a bit rough & bumpy but otherwise without issue and is taxiing back to the HAB
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
banking around the hills west of KSC, configuring the aircraft for final, Ted will be the first pilot to actually make this approach, although it has of course been practiced in the simulator as part of their basic training when he & Aldy first joined the program
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
collection is complete, with one more pass for photos. Passing over Umbarg now, Tedman is slowly descending and will follow the coast and turn inland over the Cape to avoid the terrain that lies in the way of a direct approach into Rwy01
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tedman is approaching the southern end of the burn scar, preparing to descend down to 500m ASL and begin his collection runs. He will pass over the area 3 times from different directions and increasing altitude by 1km each pass
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
slight delay as the ground power unit died & ground crews had to bring out another. The GPU keeps the aircraft off battery power during preflight while the engine is off & also provides the juice to crank the engine on startup without further sucking the batteries dry
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
2nd sunrise is near and weather is looking good (Moho, Eve/Gilly & Jool above), although winds remain a bit on the strong side. Ted is suiting up, Civvie will depart in ~1 hour around mid-cycle so we can also get a good look at the burn scar from the air
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
additionally, head over to our website for a press release from the Ascension team with further details on the next Mk1 flight, which will *NOT* be trying to achieve orbit kerbalspace.agency/?p=8387
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
future launches are not scheduled yet because each rocket's future plans will depend on the outcome of its mission:
Mk6-I: survive re-entry?
Mk1-I: tech demo
MK6-II: useful if expendable?
See our Ops Tracker for more details on each upcoming mission ops.kerbalspace.agency
Mk6-I: survive re-entry?
Mk1-I: tech demo
MK6-II: useful if expendable?
See our Ops Tracker for more details on each upcoming mission ops.kerbalspace.agency
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
π we have launch dates for January!! π
Progeny Mk6 Block I: 1/15 @ 15:53 UTC
Ascension Mk1 Block I: 1/23 @ 22:21 UTC
Progeny Mk6 Block II: 1/31 @ 16:47 UTC
Progeny Mk6 Block I: 1/15 @ 15:53 UTC
Ascension Mk1 Block I: 1/23 @ 22:21 UTC
Progeny Mk6 Block II: 1/31 @ 16:47 UTC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
if you haven't noticed, all our various account banner images have been updated with a new aerial view of the Kerbal Space Center. Notable changes from last year are the new runway and the Ascension service towers. Here is the full image
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've now published 250+ research papers. Most of the time Cheranne can't get out of the office is because she's behind on her reviews! twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
also promising is last year we had only known of 41% of the impacts beforehand, this year it was 56%. with ATN Central coming online this year our ability to find asteroids will improve slightly, tho ATN North/South in 2020 will be key for polar sky coverage
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
overall impact rate (on or near land, anyways) has decreased since the last report by 66%, which helps to assure us we aren't finding less asteroids because we're missing a lot, there really are less out there near us now - maybe passing through a thinner region of the NKO belt
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN has once again worked with keologists to produce a map of all seismic events thought to be associated with asteroid impacts or air bursts - so size of event does not directly relate to asteroid size. Known events match up with predicted impacts of discovered asteroids
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we didn't have nearly as many photos to sort through this past year as we did at the end of 2017 so we've already picked out our top 100 images from 2018: flickr.com/photos/kerbal_β¦ overall favorite is the Ascension Mk1 going vertical for the 1st time
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
as eager as the astronauts are to train in the capsule for actual recovery events, first up will be Greggery - a test weight fitted w/ sensors to sit in the capsule as it's dropped for recovery testing later this month. Apparently the name is some kind of joke but we don't get it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
final day of general staff meetings for all programs. Debates have raged but everyone is still friends so far. Great to see so many opinions and ideas being expressed by team members on the various goals that should be pursued this year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
one of the reasons Head of R&D Wernher von Kerman wanted to get back to work so badly is because he says they are close to a breakthrough at last & they've also begun to work on studying the Monolith crystal vein's conductive properties twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we had 16 asteroids enter our SOI last month, one did not make it back out. So far only 5 have been discovered for January. The downward trend in known asteroid fly-bys appears to be continuing. We hear the ATN plans to release more data over the weekend regarding this
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bit.ly/GenesisProgram has a new contract for the Civvie to collect more air samples over the burn scar left by the airburst from the near-miss meteor strike back in Nov. A flight was done shortly after the fire, but we were unable to accept that contract due to the KSC shutdown
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
tl;dr - concept proven feasible, but not a useful means of getting to space with our current availability in aircraft or rocket technology, not to mention lack of any commercial support. Is a model we will definitely be keeping in mind for all future missions however
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here is the full report on the preparation and execution of launching a Progeny Mk1-B rocket off the back of the Deuce: kerbalspace.agency/?p=8264
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our crew had the whole day to come back but all of them were here early to begin getting organized for their return to active duty. Astronauts have nailed down their training schedule while the Flight Officers have inspected & cleared both aircraft ready for service
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ππ HAPPY NEW YEAR!! ππ
we hope everyone is having a great holiday and look forward to hitting the ground running tomorrow to begin solidifying our plans for 2019, which is looking to be another exciting year for space exploration π₯β¨
we hope everyone is having a great holiday and look forward to hitting the ground running tomorrow to begin solidifying our plans for 2019, which is looking to be another exciting year for space exploration π₯β¨
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
getting a look at all the launch trajectories was much harder this year given the overall height of the missions & the spread of launch azimuths used, but we did our best. You can always download telemetry for individual flights from the Ops Tracker to graph your own data
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the final tally for rocket flights from this past year is in! We did not include the Mk1-B, as that counted for atmospheric flight
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
finally, a look at release sites for all the KerBalloons that were lofted this past year, not counting any released at KSC for rocket launch upper wind monitoring. KerBalloon team also spent more time farther afield than in previous years
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
flights were far-ranging this year compared to last, with two new airports opening up at the beginning of the year to facilitate extended missions. You can make a map easily like this in the Ops Tracker, which lets you overlay as many flight tracks as you want
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
time for a look at operations we carried out solely within the atmosphere this year, starting with an overview of the two types of operational aircraft we currently have in service - looking forward to making that three next year!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ARO released a very brief statement acknowledging that some "interesting signal noise" was detected coming from "the region of space that included Jool" but denied that any follow-up observations were already scheduled once the telescope begins science observations next month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
anything in the news about the Arekibo Radio Observatory's 200m dish picking up alien signals coming from Jool is complete speculation. It is still wrapping up commissioning. Anything it *may have* detected so far will have to undergo a full study once it is fully operational
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
let's have a look at what all of our crew have accomplished this past year. For full details and history you can check out the bit.ly/CrewRoster on the Ops Tracker. Stay tuned for more year-end overviews as we continue to wrap up 2018
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the data from tests last week of the Viklun have been transferred in full to Bluedog - it looked good in our analysis! Unless they find anything serious we should have first delivery around March 2019 twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all 5 of the Ascension Mk1 fuel tanks have been assembled with fins and control surfaces. 2 of the 5 engines have arrived so they can be integrated next month to prepare for the next set of launches - we are currently aiming for late January
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
full review of today's launch will not come until after we return to operations next year but we won't leave you all with nothing π Here is a look at the release and ascent from the ground and onboard cameras. Fwoooosh!! π youtube.com/watch?v=oDpjA1β¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Tad & Aldy have landed and Lymun is still fishing the rocket out of the water but reports that it landed without issue after fully deploying its parachute past 800m. Congratulations everyone!! π₯β¨π a fabulous way to cap off the operational year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have had a successful flight of the Mk1-B along with successful stall recovery of the Deuce! Rocket parachute has been pre-deployed at 5km to prevent it from nose-diving towards the ground as the booster remains attached with its angled fins. Rocket apokee was 16.399km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Deuce has come about and is setup on its approach to the drop point. Winds have been found to be within constraints and final checks are now underway, only ~5 minutes remain until the release maneuver
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we remain blessed with great weather, mostly sunny skies & calm winds - though once the aircraft gets higher up that could change but we will check that later. For now, Ted has begun the takeoff roll down Rwy27 as Aldy confirms his readouts for the rocket match Flight controllers
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
flight crew are aboard and working through preflight. (L to R) Tedman & Aldeny, Captain and First Officer respectively for this flight, will be putting all their practice runs to the test today at last. They posed by the aircraft earlier as the sun came up before climbing aboard
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
while we would like to have a chase plane, a Civvie cannot fly that high and we were unable to borrow any of the few other Deuce aircraft in service elsewhere. We will have a camera on the ground at KSC try to capture what it can in addition to the onboard cameras
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Flight Director Lanalye has just concluded the briefing for today's aerial launch attempt. Flight crew is heading out to the aircraft while controllers hop on to their consoles. Here is a look at what is in store and here you can review all the events since mid-2017 that led up to this mission www.kerbalspace.agency
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Dhumla is structurally complete a day ahead of schedule! Still needs gear, lights and plenty of interior work but it remains on track to begin flight testing towards the end of January. Aldy & Ted both say they can hardly wait
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
congratulations to the Genesis program for reaching the milestone of 100 missions! You can find links to all of them over the past 2.5 years in the vessel tabs on the program page. Kerzzah! bit.ly/GenesisProgram
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a look at what final approach is like at night, although with a nearly full Mun in the sky above the terrain was easy to see. Still, you can appreciate how the approach lighting makes things more visible for the pilot
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
passing overhead of KSC as he begins his final descent into the traffic pattern to land Rwy09, Aldy sent us this photo he took from the cabin after sunset as he climbed through 4.6km ASL
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Civvie has cleared terrain and we have regained contact with Aldeny, who reports no issues except the frigid cold at 5km ASL being only ~17Β°F! Thankfully he did not have to stay up there long (also cabin is unpressurized so oxygen deprivation can set in quick)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Flight Officer Aldeny is heading out from Flight Control after finishing his briefing to begin preflight. Contract calls for an evening flight with an overnight return, which will allow the collection of pollen data from later in the day than we have gathered it in the past
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after fit testing last week the astronauts have all been doing basic flight operation exercises in the pod to give all the electrical and computer systems a good work through. Bugs & issues have been noted. Remember - this is looking straight upwards, back to the floor
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
VHG-266(E) has just begun its transit through our system and will be tumbling by at 0.60 Munar Distance at closest approach later this week. It will also be another radar return target for Arekibo, which is wrapping up its commissioning phase this month
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after a bit of a battle with crosswinds Aldy is back on the ground taxiing to the HAB so the Atmospheric Fluid Spectro-Variometer can be attached for its science mission later this week, becoming the active Civvie while the other two stand down unless they are needed
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
good departure a few minutes ago as Aldy went into a steep climb after only ~400m of roll. He'll do various other performance checks, engine checks and control checks as he flies SW towards Umbarg, climbing to as high as 4km ASL
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Viklun vacuum engine had a successful first run on our test stand today. It is using a bell made for sea-level pressures from which the design team can validate the planned performance of the larger vacuum bell. There will be more static fires throughout this week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Deuce is taxiing back to the HAB after a fine landing. It will be brought back inside for mounting operations in preparation for its next mission. Tomorrow, weather permitting, Aldy will do a similar checkout of our operational Civvie
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
worst of the terrain avoided, Ted is about to turn from base leg onto final approach 12km out. It will be a steeper approach than normal because there's still a final ridge to clear but both pilots say they can see the runway clearly and will have no problems lining up
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
everything continues to look great. Flight has instructed Ted to come about & begin his descent to land back on Rwy09. Aldy will be on the controls as well to help ensure the approach is carried out safely - there are hills a few hundred meters high they'll have to pass low over
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Aldeny is co-pilot and runs comms to Flight, reports they have positive climb rate. He says Ted bounced off the runway because he didn't realize they were floating a few inches above it for a few seconds before touching down briefly again. So smooth of a roll!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Deuce is turning about at the end of Rwy09 after taxiing out a few minutes ago. Once lined up, Tedman will receive the clearance from Flight Control to push forward the throttles and begin his takeoff run down the newly-rebuilt and paved runway surface
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
sunset is approaching but we don't care anymore! With the new runway edge lighting and approach lights we can operate in full darkness when needed (VFR only still). Ted & Aldy are already out at the aircraft doing their preflight to depart in ~30 minutes
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
both our operational aircraft have been rolled back out to the tarmac after having their electronic systems checked and repaired where necessary. Later today Ted & Aldy will take up the Deuce to ensure everything is in working order prior to its next mission
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Scientists Cheranne was able to do some more testing with the seismic equipment around KSC before it had to be returned. Thankfully groundquakes in this area are virtually nonexistent because results show liquefaction is a real threat here at Cape Kernaveral
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Engineer Simon says the HAB and VAB are ready to get back to work, but Flight Director Lanalye is still waiting for Mission/Launch Control to be brought back online, as it contains the most electronic components. She says mid-next week should see them fully operational again
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all crew have been recalled this weekend to begin active duty once again starting next week. Everyone else is still working through the weekend and almost around the clock to get KSC back to operational status. Right now that's looking like sometime towards the end of next week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
all the pieces are in place - well the big ones at least. Lots of little details like lighting still to be installed after the wings & tail section are joined. Too bad they can't just snap together. A few hundred meters of wires/cables also need to be hooked up over the next 2wks
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ORJ-043(C) has officially been named bit.ly/_Tantalus, with thanks to @AFancyPenguin for the suggestion! Truly apt, for if predictions hold true it will have come and gone well before we could ever hope to reach it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've taken delivery of the Mk1 Ascension crew capsule, which will be prepared over the next month to be put through a variety of tests starting in January to certify it fit for space flight hopefully later in the year so we can begin sub-orbital kerbed missions
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Engineer Simon is happy to be resuming integration in the VAB soon, confirms that we have all the parts ready or on order to arrive in time to complete 2 Mk6-I rockets and 1 Mk6-II rocket for launch in Jan/Feb. 5 Ascension boosters will also be made ready for 2019 launches
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
YQB-102(D) entered back on 11/24 and passed by at 2.23 Munar Distance on 11/25. Astronomers say it will be back in 2032 for another pass at 2.67 MD - once again entering our SOI on 11/24 for the close approach on 11/25. Cosmic serendipity!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
no time off this weekend! Everyone is pitching in to begin getting the KSC buildings affected by the EM field back up to operational status by the end of the month, including the VAB and HAB so work can resume on Ascension, Progeny and Genesis projects in December
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Ockr and Sheltered Rock airports have had night lighting on their runways since they were built last year. Kravass' runway has recently had edge lighting installed as well. All 4 airports can now conduct night operations (in VFR conditions only)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
taken a little over an hour ago, the new runway has been completed since earlier this week and with the EM field down we can finally test the edge lighting! A slightly longer length extends from the opposite runway threshold as well. The middle has no lighting
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the 150m radius is a bubble, so it would also exclude airspace above the dome however the airspace floor over KSC is 1km so that would not be an issue. Could affect future runway placement but otherwise will not pose any problems for future KSA operations at KSC
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
crowds have mostly dispersed from around the Monolith. Whether or not deliverance was granted we are not sure but researchers are happy to have easier access again. EM field still holding at 150m - it's possible this could be maintained indefinitely
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Cheranne says her team also took time to study the seismic equipment and its effective use in order to one day apply the same principles to instruments that could accompany a probe to another body. They plan to do more research on this in 2019
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Scientists Cheranne and researchers are back from their seismic study. Cheranne loves getting out of the office and into the field, says the new research outpost (we help scout the location last year kerbalspace.agency/?p=7363) is looking great
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
EM field remains stable at 150m, no other outward activity detected from the Monolith. Pilgrims still holding vigil, awaiting "spiritual deliverance" according to those in charge
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
apparently when told of the field reduction all the pilgrims packed in even closer to the Monolith dome, convinced it meant the healing energies were now more concentrated for them. That's their belief - there is no scientific evidence that an EM field can heal you of anything
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we just got word from the surface that the EM field has collapsed down to 150m! It will continue to be monitored this week and if it looks to be holding steady we'll begin the work of getting the affected buildings back up to operational status over the next few weeks
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
EM field status remains unchanged. Researchers are just hoping there is still some internal work that needs to be done within the crystal structure that makes up the base before the Monolith has no further reason to keep the field active
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
new orbital data is up for bit.ly/_Alaba after extra care was taken in observing its new orbit for this next set of predictions, which extend to May 2019. We'll see if these hold true better than the last attempt. Large radial shifts will occur at the next 5 passes at the ascending node, while inclination will change only 1.2Β°
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
EM field remains stable. Lead Scientist Cheranne is out in the field but the researchers she assigned to monitor the Monolith are keeping a nonstop watch on its status. If any change occurs, we will know immediately. No other activity from the Monolith has yet been reported
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today's first checkup of the Monolith bore hole has found it is now completely filled in and the surrounding area is even resurfaced. Religious followers have already been gathered and praying for hours now. No effect seen so far on the EM field
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we are now just 2 days from projected closure of the bore hole into the crystal base of the Monolith. EM field remains stable - scientists were hoping to see it begin to reduce by now. A large influx of pilgrims has begun to arrive for what they believe will be an event this wknd
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we and the rest of the scientific community are not pleased to see religious leaders failing to condemn the actions of the kerbs that waited on the surface for "deliverance". They are saying their "souls are traveling the stars". We respect their choice but don't believe in it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we consider this to be a very sad result of all the absurd theories that sprung up after the passage of bit.ly/Pilirani, where many Monolithic followers believed it was really an alien space ship that had come through to take away the True Believers π
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a grisly discovery was made today by meteorite hunters of 7 bodies a few km from the epicenter beneath the airburst. They appear to have died from the compression wave traveling along the ground. Monolithic totems carried on their persons reveal them to be religious followers
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
fires are dying down out in the grasslands researchers feel it's safe enough to explore. Of course, intrepid private hunters may have already begun to scour the land despite the dangerous conditions. No doubt scientists will have to buy some back but with risk can come reward...
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSA HQ in Umbarg is back up to full staff and operations. Specialist Bill is here helping his home cavern clean up some small rockfalls. No injuries reported during the event, tho a few minor ones have come out of cleanup ops. This near-miss wasn't a wake-up but still scary!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the grasslands are burning on the outskirts of the airburst area, several minor impact craters have been found. Researchers'll have to wait for the conflagration to die down bfore they can pick thru the area for meteorite samples, which could take a day or 2 depending on weather
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
reports from Umbarg are good. Very minor rock falls, keothermal power remains online and cavern officials have already said they hope to clear kerbs to return within the next 4-6 hours. Airships will soon be enroute to check out the airburst location
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
remote observation of the event was knocked offline from the compression wave of the airburst that occurred at ~4.5km ASL when YGD-619(C) slammed into the denser lower atmosphere. It had already partially broken up before hand but still was a frighteningly forceful explosion
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSA HQ has been evacuated fully, as we are near the middle of the main cavern, whose ceiling is about 200m above us. Hopefully rockfall damage is minimal. We'll be standing by in Kravass to the north for word on the aftermath of the event
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
2 hrs until atmospheric entry of YGD-619(C) & final prep is underway in Umbarg. All who could have evacuated to the other 3 cavern systems, all who remain have been moved to the inner walls away from the large open spaces in the central areas. Emergency services standing by
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Monolith remains on track to seal over bore hole by the 17th, no further sampling or direct contact has been made by researchers. EM field remains constant. Pilgrim traffic remains manageable as well for the existing shanty town surrounding the containment dome
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
at 2.6 kilotons it's actually quite light for a Class-C, meaning there's a good chance it's a loose rubble pile that will break up on entry. Still, everyone is preparing for the worst. This is the closest entry point to date near a populated area since twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers have confirmed the inbound trajectory of YGD-619(C), which entered our SOI early today. It was discovered back on 10/23 so preparations have been underway in Umbarg since then to ensure a ground impact will not cause serious damage within the underground caverns
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the new moonlet is on a even longer orbit than Vieras, taking over 13 days to make one revolution. It will not encounter Mun's SOI again until Sept 30th of next year, but it looks like that encounter will toss it back out into kerbolar orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have another moonlet added to the Ops Tracker! bit.ly/ORJ-043_C was revealed today by astronomers, found in orbit after a recent pass through Mun's SOI. KAS is once again accepting name proposals. Names must not begin with A,C,M,P,R or V
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
crystal base of the Monolith continues to heal at its constant pace, which will see the bore hole closed over by 11/17. EM field remains constant as well. No growth reported on either crystal stubs of the veins that were severed and no power issues in Kravass or Umbarg
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
#OTD 1 year ago a Progeny Mk5 sporting improved SRBs & lighter parts blew everyone away with a staggering apokee of 493km - the 1st rocket to reach high Kerbin space >250km. It was also noteworthy for this iconic aerial ascent image. Mission recap: kerbalspace.agency/?p=5916
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
report from maritime services that the OLZ-440(C) event did create a large wave (whether by impact or air burst could not be observed) that washed away the docks used to offload cargo for transport to the ATN North construction site causing weeks of delay at least to the project
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers have confirmed that OLZ-440(C), which entered our SOI earlier today, is on course as predicted to impact the water if it survives atmospheric entry. All maritime operations in support of ATN North construction have ceased until after the event
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
#OTD 2 years ago we suffered our first in-flight failure with the Progeny Mk2 when the multi-stage rocket failed to separate properly. We learned many valuable lessons from this incident! Recap the mission here: kerbalspace.agency/?p=2253
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Experimental Engineering Group have delivered our new inline material bays and mystery goo containment units. They have been toughened, re-certified and will be integrated next month if EM field drops to be tested on Progeny Mk6 Block I flights kicking off the new year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Monolith update: still looking at mid-Nov for bore hole to finish healing, we should have an exact date next week. Chipping off just a few small crystal samples to analyze activated the sonic defense for about 3 hours. The edifice is certainly not tolerating further interference
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after nearly a month of digging, drift tunneling along the crystal veins leading from the Monolith to Kravass and Umbarg was halted today. No further branches were discovered. The past 2wks scientists have installed seismic sensors to monitor the rest of the vein lengths
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
here's a look at this past weekend's transit of Moho along with the two transits that were recorded last year. There might be a very slight graze next July but the next major Moho transit will not be until late October of next year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
36 minutes ago this photo was taken from down by the shore looking back at KSC during the today's 1st sunset over the mountains. It has been edited to bring out Minmus, visible to the lower right of the sun just beginning a transit, which will be over by next sunrise
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
congrats to Lead Scientist Cheranne and her research team for winning a lucrative contract to explore some seismic disturbances (tectonic, not Monolith related), working out of the new surface settlement that has just begun to be established nearby
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're getting weekly status reports from Lead Scientist Cheranne's surface team monitoring the Monolith's healing progress. Bore hole closure rate remains constant, as does the EM field. Sonic defenses remain inert even on close approach
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
incredible news from the Kerbal Astronomical Society - astronomers have discovered what appears to be a huge asteroid on a highly-elliptical and inclined orbit around Kerbol! Full press release: kerbalspace.agency/?p=8103
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with cessation of major science studies KNN has also reported that religious leaders have begun talks with scientists and government officials on the possibility of converting the Monolith dome into a temple along with a more permanent settlement in the immediate vicinity
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're pleased to hear from the surface science teams that religious leaders have been working together to keep the amount of pilgrims around the Monolith at any one time to manageable levels, ensuring that once KSC is back to operations we do not need to support them as well
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
taken earlier this day cycle from atop Building B in the Support Village, progress being made on the new runway - about half has been broken down & that half will begin to be rebuilt and paved while the other half is broken down
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
bore hole measurements made yesterday show it continues to close at a rate that will see it healed up by mid-Nov. We still have to see whether the EM field drops or further reduces its size but if able to resume surface ops, would work towards Jan '19 Ascension & Progeny launches
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Kerbal Astronomical Society has chosen to rename NXP-702(D) formally as bit.ly/Vieras, which implies its status as a guest of our system. Thanks to @Rod31097420 for the suggestion! This is our 6th official moonlet discovered so far
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSA HQ back online, upgrades went well according to our IT kerbs. Surface team assigned to monitoring the Monolith will be making new measurements tomorrow on the bore hole to confirm the rate of closure is holding steady since last week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KSA HQ will be offline tomorrow through the weekend for networking infrastructure upgrades, but we've given the ATN kerbs account access so any incoming asteroids will still be reported
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
in a gesture of goodwill the government will continue to allow worshipers to visit the site without oversight. Researchers will continue passive monitoring as well. Due to the ground excavations, the dome will need to remain in order to protect against flooding
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the effort to penetrate the Monolith has been indefinitely suspended and the bore hole will be allowed to heal. Current estimates put this happening by mid-November. We still don't know if this will bring about the end of the EM field as well, but everyone is hoping it will
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
with only 15 known asteroids passing through our SOI last month we continue to see a reduced trend that looks to continue into this month as well. Astronomers are considering whether we might be passing through a relatively empty area in the belt of NKOs
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
construction has begun on the sites for both Northern and Southern Deep Space Network observatories. They are scheduled to be completed and commissioned in 2020 and will help keep us in touch with future polar satellites
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a branch has been found and severed leading off to Kravass from the main trunk of crystal, reports KNN. The drift along the Umbarg vein has still turned up nothing. Discussion on whether to continue attempts to penetrate beneath the Monolith are ongoing
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
#OTD 2 years ago we launched our first rocket ever (bit.ly/Progeny_Mk1-A) and 1 year ago we launched our first automated rocket (bit.ly/Progeny_Mk5)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
our astronaut crew are officially on leave through the remainder of the month - maybe even into October depending on how the Monolith behaves. They've worked hard nonstop since the beginning of the year and have certainly earned a good deal of vacation time!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although no new power outages have been reported, repercussions from the ones last month are still being felt as financial markets took a big hit & have not yet fully recovered. KerBalloon is finding it difficult to close any contracts with a reasonable rate of return
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today Arekibo finally begins it commissioning phase! All the hardware has been installed within the structure completed earlier this year and the telescope can begin observing known radio sources to calibrate & compare data with past observations over the remainder of the year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
latest reports from KNN say no new branches found yet as digging continues around the clock. No new reports of power outages either. Keologists have been studying seismic data around Sheltered Rock & Ockr, saying no obvious sign of crystal growths seen near the caverns
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the capsule will begin manufacturing to be delivered late November for initial trials to start in December. It will be assembled here in Umbarg and parts come from other caverns, including Kravass, so any future power issues could affect the delivery date
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the decision was made late last month during the final stages of capsule testing that neither pod prototype was quite good enough, so engineers spent the last few weeks working furiously on combining the best of both to design the final Mk1 capsule
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
surface instruments at KSC recorded no change in the size or strength of the EM field either. Leading assumption is that the energy was used to power greater crystal growth elsewhere, likely new filaments towards Umbarg & Kravass
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
researchers gained access to the Monolith through the throng of pilgrims and measured the change to the bore hole to discover it had not healed as fast as they would have expected with the power drained from Kravass before the crystals were excised
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Kravass is in the process of restoring power after they had to perform another conduit replacement to eradicate new crystal growth. Umbarg has not yet been affected and teams at both veins are now working around the clock to tunnel in search of any branches
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
2 calendar years means different things to different planets. Here's a look at how far all the planets have traveled since the day the KSA was founded back in 2016. All the planets closer than Dres have completed at least one kerbolar year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KNN reports power authorities are going to start drifting underground back along the two veins they cut to look for branches. As ideal as it would be to just sever things closer to the source, at greater distances the Monolith should be able to do less to impede them
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
β¨π happy birthday to us!! πβ¨ Today marks the start of Year 3 for KSA operations. Our founder and Ops Director @DKerman_KSA has some words to share on the current state of things π₯ kerbalspace.agency/?p=8039
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have a new moonlet! Astronomers discovered bit.ly/NXP-702_D already in orbit. It's likely not been there long due to its large eccentricity. We'll see how well they predicted its first known Mun encounter early next year before seeing where it might end up long-term
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
astronomers have confirmed UIX-921(C) will be coming down over the water south of KSC. Should present little to no danger - it will occur at low tide which places us nearly 70m above sea level. Still, those still on the surface have been warned (pilgrims too)
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
today work was begun on our dirt runway thru October. It will be broken down to ground level and rebuilt to handle heavier aircraft, leveled back at is previous height and then paved over. Edge lighting will also be installed so takeoffs and landings can be done at night
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
spending the last few days probing the area of last week's temblor with ground penetrating radar, keologists have enough evidence to suggest a new crystal vein is being grown towards Kravass. Perhaps Umbarg too? Power authorities are considering what actions to take
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
once again violence has thankfully been avoided at the Monolith site. Drilling teams have not returned while researchers work on a way around the additional defensive measure & religious pilgrims have mostly gone back to just praying a lot. Gov't forces have left the area
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
latest report from the surface is the ultrasonic defenses have stopped again but no decision has been made to resume drilling. Unrest among the pilgrims in the area also growing as they feel they should join in on the Monolith's act of defense & keep gov't teams out of the area
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
update on the Monolith drilling operation is that they have once again been forced away. While use of the defense mechanism makes sense and is effective, researchers remain puzzled as to why it stayed silent and even allowed them to get this close for so long
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
in case you don't recall, the Monolith had made an ultrasonic noise that prevented close examination in the past. It ceased after the first incident when we reached space and for some reason this is the first time it has returned since twitter.com/KSA_MissionCtrβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Monolith began emitting ultrasonic noise again late yesterday, which forced kerbs to retreat from the immediate area to about 300m outside the dome before the headaches and nausea wore off. Emission ended a few hours ago and KNN reports drilling has just resumed once more
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
latest KNN report from the drilling is that better-than-expected progress is being made. The shaft has already surpassed the point where it was before the EM field kicked in and ground level could be reached sometime late this weekend or early next week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KNN reports drilling has begun. The setup requires 4 kerbals at a time to crank the drill, they have three teams that will work shifts around the clock and stop only to check on drill bit wear, replace as needed and observe overall progress
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
why have we not found more small moons of Jool & the other gas giants? No telescope is looking at them enough. All are too busy scanning the sky for asteroids that could endanger us. As more scopes come online in the coming years, more time can be spent looking at planets
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
following the Kerbin probes will be named missions into longer-term orbits to carry out various tasks including mapping, communications, science studies and technology testing. Larger Ascension vehicles will be developed to lift heavier loads. No timeline yet for a Munshot, sry!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ultimately, unless failures occur on orbit, none of the Kerbin probes will remain in space and all will eventually decay back into the atmosphere to burn up - except for the RTG test missions of course, which will return the generator to the surface for re-use or safe disposal
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
what we can say is that the Kerbin series of satellites will test numerous new tech, including reaction control systems, larger-capacity batteries, a radioisotope thermoelectric generator and all the science instruments that will eventually fly on the Extremis probes
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
not much has been said still of Kerbin I, our first planned satellite to launch when Ascension Mk1 proves it is able to make orbit reliably. It is still under constant redesign as the capabilities of the Ascension Mk1 & satellite requirements on orbit become clearer
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
KerBalloon program is the only one that can still run fairly normally & have finally got all their support teams supplies & equipment transferred from KSC and setup offsite here in Umbarg to begin accepting new mission contracts, like this one to bit.ly/Area_M-32Q
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
although several arrests were made, authorities were able to give researchers access to the Monolith site without sparking violence over the weekend so equipment could be hauled in. Researchers now say they plan to begin drilling later this week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
18 asteroids remained the final count for August, with two impacts. In addition to a below-avg count it had an above-avg perikee distance. Are asteroids getting fewer and father? Only more data will let us know for sure. Time will tell!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
late yesterday seismic sensors picked up a rather strong 5.4 magnitude groundquake less than 50km southeast of Kravass. It's notable because keologists say there are no known fault lines or volcanic activity in the area. A team has been dispatched to investigate
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we had a great day welcoming visitors back to KSC. Buses only travel across the causeway to the edge of the EM field & drop off groups for walking tours. Obviously anyone bringing electronic devices with them will regret it. Yes, kerbs did, despite the warnings. Of course
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
efforts to get a mechanical drilling rig setup this week have been mostly unsuccessful due to the number of pilgrims in the area protesting the actions and not allowing equipment into the site. Tensions are beginning to rise again as gov't threatens forced removal
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we just finished evaluating the various construction equipment and the good news is we may be able to get some renovations done while operations are halted. Yup - we are looking at you, runway!
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
while other airports could support the continued construction of the Dhumla if we were to move the assembly offsite, none of them are good places to loft a brand new aircraft. The low altitude and flat terrain around KSC is the ideal flight testing environment
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this week some construction vehicles were staged outside the EM field at the Support Village, today they will all be driven into the EM field to see how they fare. As long as their electric starters are used outside the field, their mechanical systems should not be affected
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Head of R&D Wernher & his dept still working on Extremis science instruments, Lead Scientist Cheranne has her field team deployed at KSC to help work with Monolith researchers, Lead Engineer Simon is assisting with our TBA jet engine program
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've finished transferring what equipment we can from KSC to Umbarg HQ so programs can continue development work as best as possible. Progeny still analyzing Mk6 debris. Extremis plotting trajectories. Ascension reviewing capsule tests. Genesis prepping Dhumla test requirements
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
great news from across the Kerblantic - bit.ly/DSN_Central has completed construction! It still has a few months of equipment setup & comms cabling to undergo but by early next year we can begin using the 27m dishes for extended downrange tracking of Ascension
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the effort is underway to setup a mechanical drilling system and see if the reduced healing rate of the Monolith can allow researchers to bore further upwards and still possibly reach the underside at ground level, as mentioned in our last report
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the day was only minutes old when KER-248(E) came tumbling in, set to pass no closer than 3.67 Munar Distance. Speaking of tumbling, getting a better idea of how asteroids rotate will be something Arekibo's radar will allow astronomers to investigate next year
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it seems KSC security has more to deal with than Monolith pilgrims (who have not been a problem, by the way - just a potential one). Two daredevils managed to sneak on campus, break into the VAB and parachute down from the roof. They were apprehended after landing
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
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
in case anyone recalls us speaking about various KSC buildings being "shielded", which we have in the past, that was against background planetary EM to ensure instruments can be calibrated properly. This localized EM field is much, much stronger
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
ATN's rate of spotting asteroids hasn't fallen but the number of unique objects spotted has. Sometimes up to half of objects noted in observations are already known. Astronomers are now thinking our system hosts just a few tens of thousands instead of hundreds of thousands
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
report from KNN on the pilgrims surrounding the Monolith talks about how many feel "cleansed" and rejuvenated. We can assure you there is no scientific research being done right now on any health benefits from EM field immersion
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this was taken standing just outside the 2.5km outer edge of the EM field (near the engine test stand). You can make out some of the larger tents setup around the burn scar off in the distance near the Monolith research dome if you look closely
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we now know the EM field is still active because the bore hole is in fact continuing to fill, just at a pace now only measurable in days. New estimates say it could take as long as 3 months to heal. Here is an updated report for the past 2 weeks: kerbalspace.agency/?p=7933
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the Atmospheric Fluid Spectro-Variometer has been removed from Civvie #2 and is being shipped to Kravass to be installed on a Civvie borrowed from the flight school so scientists can still get their regular bi-monthly pollen readings
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
as frustrating as it may be to have our operations largely shut down, this does free up lots of time for us to tackle tasks like upgrading our Ops Tracker. Look at all we want to do and fix, and feel free to make your own suggestions! github.com/KSAMissionCtrlβ¦
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
still, everyone agrees it's too early to say that this will remain constant. The rapid field collapse could mean it has enough energy reserved now only for days or weeks of continued projection. No one still knows why the field remains if crystal growth has ceased
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
surface instruments monitoring the EM field show no change since yesterday, not even minor fluctuations. It would appear this is how much the Monolith can sustain itself without help from our power grids, perhaps it is also tapped in to some other source
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Flight Officers Aldeny & Tedman have been released while KSA operations are down. Genesis has ground work for them, but not enough to keep them around full time. They will be returning to Kravass and Sheltered Rock, respectively, to help with GA flight training
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
latest surface update reports field size remains stable at 2.5km and still strong enough to generate dangerously high levels of current in active electronics. Crystal growth at severed vein sites appears to have stopped, same with drill hole. Unknown why EM field is still up then
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
orbital update for bit.ly/_Alaba has been posted. It will make another encounter on 8/25, against prev predictions of a months-long stable period. Going forward one encounter we are very precise - beyond that, work still needs to be done w/ trajectory plotting accuracy
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
field size just collapsed rapidly from 3.8km down to 2.5km over the last ~5 minutes. If the Monolith is conserving energy, it could possibly remain stable at this size for some time before continuing to grow smaller. All KSC buildings are still within the field, barely
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
EM field has fallen to under 5km and continues to become smaller, although not continuously. It has stopped and rebounded slightly several times but the overall trend appears to be a reduction in size
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
BREAKING NEWS! We just heard from surface crew monitoring the EM field and it has begun to shrink. Round-the-clock workers on both veins have continued to chip away and prevent any new growth
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have confirmation from KNN the Umbarg vein has been broken. Still no apparent response from the Monolith nor has the EM field size changed even the slightest. Researchers at the Monolith site say the bore hole continues to be filled at the same pace also
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
kerbs working on the Kravass vein were the first to break completely through, Umbarg vein not far behind. They will continue to widen the gap while an eye is kept on the EM field size, which currently does not seem to be affected
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
since the explosives failed, kerbs have simply begun to hack away at the remaining structure with both manual and power tools in a final attempt to break the connection at both locations. Everyone is waiting for further updates from KNN
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the main crystal veins were blown up just a little while ago - or at least, the attempt was made. Although visibly damaged, they appeared to soak up the majority of the energy from the blast. Instruments at KSC recorded a slight EM field increase before it settled back to 6km
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Alaba has now entered Mun's SOI for its 12th recorded flyby, doing so this time while passing its ascending node. We can't see it at the moment but will be able to observe it shortly after it exits over the night side of Kerbin. Orbital update should be posted tomorrow
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
this also settles the nagging problem scientists had with their initial theory, which posited the EM field was was a defensive measure. We don't need electricity to drill, but now we know doing so manually might not be faster than its healing rate
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
much like new crystal was grown to reattach to power conduits, the hole that was drilled is slowly healing. The field has stabilized at 6km, and the hole could be healed in ~2 weeks. Whether the EM field will shut off once the hole is healed is still unknown
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we know what the Monolith is doing. Returning to the research site several days ago, scientists inspecting the bore hole saw it was a few cm shorter and narrower than what was last measured before the EM field sprang up. Over the past week they have watched it close up further
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we're very happy to see this cause frankly things were getting super tense between all 3 factions over the past several months & hopefully this will help appease everyone to some degree, calm things back down afterwards. We would hate to have to deal with fighting in our backyard
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
after days of negotiations, we just heard on KNN that scientists have convinced the government the Monolith presents no immediate threat to kerbals near it and have made an agreement with religious leaders for followers to remain while the field is active & research is suspended
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
meanwhile on our end we've made sure KSC security is back in place to prevent any looting or occupation by Monolithic followers hiding from government forces looking to remove them. The situation has not yet turned violent but it has grown scarily close
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
the plan that we have heard from KNN reports is current excavations of the main crystal veins running to Kravass & Umbarg will be used to blow them up, creating a large enough gap that any attempts to regrow can be seen and stopped before a reconnection can be made
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we were not fortunate enough to be on a grid that wasn't affected by the latest brownout, which ended earlier today. With yet another conduit replacement completed, power authorities say a plan is moving forwards to sever the connection closer to the source
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a recent discovery from the ATN has blown away the previous record holder for distant Kupier Belt Object. VDE-587(B) is approaching the outer Kerbolar system, falling from a distance of 46Tm - that's 46 *trillion* meters!! It takes an incredible 20,688 years to complete one orbit
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
of course the field has no effect on any kerbal, believer or not, and government security forces have already begun their own operations to move in and remove anyone that comes within the 10km quarantine zone they setup the day after the Monolith activated
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
over the past wk as word has spread about the Monolith's new behavior & the vacancy of KSC religious followers have flocked to the site by any means necessary, many taking days-long journeys over land. They believe the field is meant for their sanctuary & will repel non-followers
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we've worked out the basic logistics for being able to continue most of our operations without the ability to use KSC, if needed. Right now we are waiting for a better idea of just how long-lasting this EM field is & whether there is a way to counter or disable it
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
it's impossible to also monitor all the conduits all the time, so if new crystals do decide to grow & attach themselves we probably won't know until a blackout or brownout occurs. The government & power authorities say they are working on a more permanent solution
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
EM field has continued to shrink, but as it has grown smaller the rate has decreased. It is either stabilizing via some other power source or there are already new crystals growing into power conduits. Data collection on power usage too rudimentary to know quickly
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
surface instruments reported prior to the 2nd blackout the EM field had begun to shrink. It has rebounded to 9km before we could shut off the power again but once more is beginning to reduce in size & could be gone by the end of the week
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
a 2nd power drain struck late on the 10th & took out the majority of Umbarg and Kravass. Where the power stopped reaching customers is the area that was searched to find the new crystal growths. Once again a full power shutdown and conduit replacement was required
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
Lead Scientist Cheranne is leading a team back to KSC to setup monitoring equipment over this weekend so we can keep track of the EM field's size and strength over time, as well as continue to monitor for signs of toxins or radiation
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
we have released the report on the events that occurred this past Tuesday, which will serve as our Ops Summary for this week. Additional updates will be posted as we get more information on the EM field surrounding KSC. kerbalspace.agency/?p=7917
Kerbal Space Agency
@KSA_MissionCtrl
high-level KSA staff meeting will be held tomorrow to work up a full assessment of the current situation and decide what steps will be taken moving forward over the next several days. We will have details in our