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We Launched Our Flight 3 Patch? While Waiting For a Lift!

NASASpaceflight・2 minutes read

SpaceX is preparing Ship 28 for a wet dress rehearsal campaign with booster work done and a full stack creation. The timeline for completion is estimated around late February to early March, discussing engine swaps, static fire tests, and stacking details.

Insights

  • Ship 28 is undergoing preparations for a wet dress rehearsal campaign with subsequent booster work.
  • Live commentary is available for the lift of Ship 28, coinciding with the release of IF3 NSF merch.
  • Concerns over tile loss during re-entry are raised, emphasizing the importance of quality control in tiling installation.
  • Collaboration between SpaceX and NASA on heat shield development is highlighted, showcasing the benefits of shared expertise.
  • Speculation on Starship's future iterations, including potential extensions and payload bay enhancements, is discussed, focusing on increasing capacity and efficiency.

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Recent questions

  • What is a wet dress rehearsal campaign?

    A simulation of launch conditions without liftoff.

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Summary

00:00

SpaceX Ship 28 Prepares for Launch

  • Ship 28 is being prepared for a wet dress rehearsal campaign.
  • Work has been done on the ship after issues with the ship and booster.
  • A full stack is being created with Ship 28.
  • Live commentary is being provided for the lift of Ship 28.
  • The release of IF3 NSF merch is happening during the stream.
  • Engine swaps have been done, possibly requiring a static fire test.
  • The ship has been stacked on a booster 17 times during the day and 13 times at night.
  • Ship 26 is considered by many as having no clear purpose.
  • Ship 26 may be used for testing new techniques or as a test tank.
  • Elon Musk telling Kanye West about a timeline for SpaceX activities may be overly ambitious given current delays.

15:13

SpaceX's Starship Completion Timeline and Innovations

  • The timeline for completion is estimated to be around February 29th to the beginning of March, possibly a week longer than Elon Musk's Twitter announcement.
  • The completion timeframe is suggested to be four to five weeks, with three weeks seeming unrealistic.
  • The possibility of meeting the schedule is discussed, with the completion of tasks like prop load, wet dress, and final vehicle preparations.
  • A static fire test is mentioned, which can be done within a couple of days, but tile repairs may be needed afterward.
  • The estimated completion time is personally suggested to be around four weeks, aligning with a month away.
  • The weight of a ship is humorously compared to 20,000 Taylor Swifts, prompting calculations to verify the accuracy.
  • The discussion shifts to the potential of a Starship variant with nine engines, including three sea level and six vacuum engines.
  • The optimization process for Starship design is mentioned, with a possible V3 stretch ship in the future.
  • The control mechanism for the Chopsticks, used for stacking and potentially catching boosters, is explained to be autonomous.
  • The status of ship 28's payload door is clarified, indicating that it is not welded shut but held closed by locks until ready for flight.

29:50

Tile Inspection and Efficiency in Space Travel

  • 1. OBS inspections on flight day two compared with the belly shot of the orbital lifted in the Vib in the transfer aisle to ensure tile presence.
  • 2. Verification of every single tile or comparison if multiple tiles present to determine clearance for entry.
  • 3. Additional TPS test and check one day before re-entry to ensure clearance for landing.
  • 4. Concern over tile loss during re-entry, referencing ship 25's experience with significant tile loss.
  • 5. Focus on quality control, particularly in tiling installation, cleanliness, and stacking inside with closed doors for improved tile retention during Ascent.
  • 6. Collaboration between SpaceX and NASA on heat shield development, leveraging NASA's experience in the field.
  • 7. Speculation on potential payload insertion post-successful orbital insertion, with considerations for mass simulator or starlink satellites.
  • 8. Discussion on FTS arming process, involving manual pin removal for arming and subsequent safe during descent.
  • 9. Explanation on Raptor engine efficiency on Mars, with sea level Raptor working in Mars' atmosphere and vacuum Raptor optimized for space.
  • 10. Clarification on Mars' atmosphere being near vacuum, enhancing vacuum Raptor performance compared to sea level Raptor.

45:11

SpaceX's Starbase Prepares for Ship Lift

  • The atmosphere on Earth is thin at high altitudes, close to a vacuum, making vacuum-optimized engines more efficient than sea-level engines.
  • Elon Musk's SpaceX plans to extend the tanks and payload bay of their ships to accommodate more people, but changing the width of the ship would require a complete overhaul.
  • The current payload bay volume is around 1,000 cubic meters, larger than the ISS, with potential for expansion.
  • Smaller heat shield tiles are preferred for better plasma protection and flexibility around curves, possibly using pinned tiles for specific areas.
  • Workers at SpaceX's Starbase are preparing for a lift, with the ship being raised slightly and blocks removed for safety.
  • The Chopsticks, used for lifting and catching boosters, can move quickly into position for catches, with gravity aiding their descent.
  • The speed of the Chopsticks during catches may differ from lifts, with the possibility of using smaller, faster arms for catching.
  • Gravity assists in the Chopsticks' descent, making it more energy-efficient compared to lifting.
  • The construction of a second tower at Starbase is confirmed by Elon Musk, likely to begin after the third flight.
  • The anticipation for the lift at Starbase is high, with workers making final inspections and adjustments before stacking the ship on Booster 10.

01:00:10

"Full Stack Testing and Stacking Speculation"

  • The discussion revolves around the full stack and its relevance to the article's theme.
  • Speculation arises about testing the ship's connections by lowering it on a stand.
  • The importance of ensuring proper connections before stacking is highlighted.
  • Alex's theories are praised for their logical sense.
  • The timeline for testing and stacking the full stack is questioned.
  • The process of lowering the stack onto the stand and engaging clamps is anticipated.
  • The significance of stabilizers and pins in determining the lifting process is emphasized.
  • The potential for a Giga Press to create a large piece for Starship is debated.
  • Various fun payload ideas for Starship, including a Cybertruck or a Tesla Semi, are discussed.
  • Despite SpaceX's actions, the release of IF3 merch is confirmed to proceed as planned.

01:14:28

Excitement builds for Starship flight patch.

  • Workers at Starbase are constantly refreshing NASA's space.com on their phones, waiting for a patch release before the ship can lift off.
  • The release was initially planned for a full stack event, but delays have pushed it back.
  • The third flight patch for Starship has been designed by Poine and is now available on shop.nasaspaceflight.com.
  • The patch continues the storytelling theme of liftoff and flight, now focusing on the ship in flight.
  • The patch is available on various merchandise like t-shirts, hoodies, and water bottles.
  • The patch manufacturing method is similar to the second patch in terms of quality and thickness.
  • The patch won't animate like the transition seen on the stream.
  • Many viewers have purchased the patch and shared their excitement and plans for displaying it.
  • Some viewers collect all patches released, showing enthusiasm for the merchandise.
  • The coverage includes messages from viewers expressing gratitude and excitement for the patch release.

01:28:43

Pauling's Execution Drives Remarkable Outcomes

  • Pauling played a crucial role in bringing ideas to fruition, emphasizing the importance of execution.
  • Brainstorming sessions are essential, but ultimately, Pauling's execution is what leads to remarkable outcomes.
  • The team is already brainstorming a potential fourth flight due to increasing speed requirements.
  • Mention of potential inclusion of more fluid ounces in the collection, with a clarification of what "Oz" stands for.
  • Reference to past events involving ships 25 and 28, highlighting ongoing work on ship 28.
  • Trevor Snik takes over hosting duties, expressing frustration with the Imperial system and advocating for the metric system.
  • Discussion on the development of reusable launch vehicles, with mentions of Falcon 9 and other companies like Blue Origin and Landspace.
  • Mention of numerous Chinese companies working on Falcon-like vehicles, with a focus on Landspace's Juk 3.
  • Reference to the continuous upgrades and iterations of Falcon 9, indicating a similar trajectory for Starship.
  • Speculation on the number of versions or iterations Starship may undergo, with examples of significant changes between different ships.

01:45:17

SpaceX Acknowledges Support, Discusses Recovery Challenges

  • Messages of support and gratitude for the patch purchases are acknowledged.
  • The store is processing a high volume of support messages due to numerous purchases.
  • Speculation on the timing of Starship landing attempts and booster catches is discussed.
  • Estimates for successful recovery attempts for ships and boosters are provided.
  • The time taken for SpaceX to produce ships and boosters is detailed, with varying timelines.
  • Challenges in installing Raptors, plumbing, and heat shielding on boosters are highlighted.
  • The loud noise heard during stacking may have caused potential damage to the ship or booster.
  • Ship 26 cannot be stacked due to missing stabilizers, likely a structural test article.
  • Speculation on potential actions with ship 26 and its future is discussed.
  • The possibility of ship 28 being moved to a suborbital pad for a static fire is considered, but a roll is not expected.

02:02:58

"Starship's Weight and Design Advancements"

  • The weight of the tiles on the ship is discussed, with the conclusion that while they add weight, it's not significant compared to the overall weight of the vehicle.
  • The Starship, when fully fueled, weighs around 1,400 metric tons, making the tile weight inconsequential.
  • Collaboration and inspiration in reusable rocketry designs, like the Starship, are seen as positive for progress in space exploration.
  • Legal protection for SpaceX's intellectual property, especially against overseas companies like China, is mentioned, with ITAR regulations potentially playing a role.
  • The design similarities in rockets, like the Falcon 9 and Starship, are attributed to engineering tradeoffs and adherence to the laws of physics.
  • The potential extension of Starship's length by 10 to 15 meters for version 3 is discussed, with considerations on payload capacity and propellant availability.
  • The purpose of extending the ship is to increase payload capacity, enable more propellant for further destinations, and potentially allow the ship to reach orbit without the booster's assistance.
  • The booster's role in providing the necessary push for Starship to reach orbit is highlighted, with the goal of the ship being extended rather than the booster.
  • The importance of powerful Raptors in reducing burn time and enabling the ship to reach orbit independently is emphasized.
  • Updates on the status of the ship's preparations for a lift, including the stabilizers being in place and the anticipation of a lift within an hour or so.

02:20:46

"SpaceX Ship 28 Static Fire Protocol"

  • Ship 28 has static fired twice from subal pad B.
  • After a wet dress, a minimum of one D stack is needed to arm the flight termination system.
  • Multiple D stacks may be required after a wet dress rehearsal for thorough checks before launch.
  • SpaceX needs to submit mishap reports to the FAA for approval.
  • SpaceX has never attempted a static fire of a full stack unless for a launch attempt.
  • The ship is held up by a four-point system with ball pins and stabilizers.
  • The booster is also held by a four-point system with lift points and stabilizers.
  • The first stack of 420 was done with a crane, which was considered janky.
  • The Press plate on the ship interfaces pressurization lines with the ship cuti.
  • Naming of Starships is debated, with suggestions to name cruise ships after shuttles and keep tanker names simple.

02:38:09

Comparing Polaris Dawn to Dragon spacecraft maintenance.

  • Polaris Dawn is compared to Jared Isaacman's personal Dragon spacecraft.
  • Crew members are seen inspecting the concrete base at the production site.
  • The crew is speculated to be filling in cracks or performing maintenance.
  • Humorous anecdotes about losing tools like a 10 mm socket are shared.
  • Discussion on the use of Imperial units in aircraft construction.
  • Speculation on the cleanup of foreign object debris (FOD) for a wet dress rehearsal.
  • Details on the mishap investigation process led by SpaceX and the FAA.
  • Uncertainty surrounding the launch date for Starship IF3, leaning towards March.
  • Explanation of the FAA's role in ensuring safety and proper procedures.
  • Speculation on the differences between Starship Version 3 and the HLS variant.

02:56:26

"American Angry Starship Speculation and Rocket Thrust"

  • Angry American mentions Starship Jack Kilt um musical wolves with $5 Super Chat
  • Discussion about the media button being pressed for fun
  • Mention of Duramax being both metric and Imperial, with confusion about what Duramax is
  • Speculation about a forklift or scissor lift seen across the stand
  • Observation of a CO2 tank possibly blocking the view
  • Mention of Starship Serenity as a potential cool name
  • Members picking up patches from the store and positive feedback received
  • Discussion on rocket thrust to weight ratios, with comparisons to various rockets
  • Speculation on extending the tower for larger Starship versions
  • Mention of booster capabilities to reach orbit by itself and potential modifications needed

03:15:35

SpaceX addresses fuel sloshing for engine safety.

  • SpaceX encountered issues with fuel sloshing in the tank during engine reignition, potentially causing engine failure.
  • To address the problem, SpaceX added slosh baffles to the tank's bottom, observed after the tank's return from the mega bay.
  • The baffles aim to prevent excessive fuel movement within the tank during acceleration, aiding engine performance.
  • During booster 10's roll back for static fire, a vent-like structure was noticed on the liquid oxygen tank, hinting at potential design improvements.
  • The dynamic nature of the booster's flip during flight poses challenges, including forces from engine blasts and pressure changes affecting fuel states.
  • Rapid acceleration changes within the tanks can lead to gas-liquid transitions, risking damage due to pressure fluctuations.
  • SpaceX's learning process during flights, akin to ship flips during SN flights, is crucial for understanding and improving booster performance.
  • The complexity of Super Heavy's design, with multiple cryogenic fluids and autogenous pressurization, presents unique challenges compared to Falcon 9.
  • SpaceX's water deluge system during launches, while seemingly inefficient, is a common practice in rocket launches for safety and cooling purposes.
  • Despite expectations for a lift, SpaceX trolled observers by returning ship 28 to its stand, prompting continued monitoring for potential future lifts.

03:33:20

"Stream Signing Off, Thanks to Team"

  • Stream signing off due to lack of significant activity
  • Host Trevor Snic thanking Kevin Michael Reed and Jay for operating the stream, with Gauge on camera support
  • Encouragement to check out Starbase live for ongoing content viewing opportunities
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