Author Topic: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20  (Read 49544 times)

Offline DaveS

  • Shuttle program observer
  • Senior Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 8526
  • Sweden
  • Liked: 1199
  • Likes Given: 65
LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« on: 04/19/2006 03:17 pm »
I thiught that I would start this thread in advance of the Atlas V with ASTRA 1KR launch tommorow.

A couple of minutes ago, the Atlas V began its rollout to the SLC 41 pad. Should be there in about 15 minutes.
"For Sardines, space is no problem!"
-1996 Astronaut class slogan

"We're rolling in the wrong direction but for the right reasons"
-USA engineer about the rollback of Discovery prior to the STS-114 Return To Flight mission

Offline DaveS

  • Shuttle program observer
  • Senior Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 8526
  • Sweden
  • Liked: 1199
  • Likes Given: 65
RE: April 20: Atlas V ASTRA 1KR launch
« Reply #1 on: 04/19/2006 03:33 pm »
It's now at the pad.
"For Sardines, space is no problem!"
-1996 Astronaut class slogan

"We're rolling in the wrong direction but for the right reasons"
-USA engineer about the rollback of Discovery prior to the STS-114 Return To Flight mission

Offline Jim

  • Night Gator
  • Senior Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 37440
  • Cape Canaveral Spaceport
  • Liked: 21450
  • Likes Given: 428
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #2 on: 04/19/2006 04:09 pm »
Forgot to post a video alert.  You can see it on the pad on here with a countdown status

http://countdown.ksc.nasa.gov/elv/

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #3 on: 04/19/2006 04:31 pm »
We'll have this as the live launch thread. Moving into the update section.
Support NSF via L2 -- Help improve NSF -- Site Rules/Feedback/Updates
**Not a L2 member? Whitelist this forum in your adblocker to support the site and ensure full functionality.**

Offline John44

  • Elite Veteran
  • Senior Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 3887
  • Netherlands
    • space-multimedia
  • Liked: 258
  • Likes Given: 0
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #4 on: 04/19/2006 06:52 pm »
Direct broadcast satellite
Separated mass: Approx. 4,332 kg (9,550 lbs)

Launch Vehicle:Atlas V, 411 configuration, designated AV-008

4-meter diameter (13.75 ft) payload fairing, 12.9 m/42.3 ft long

1 strap-on solid rocket booster, built by Aerojet, Sacramento, Calif.

Single-engine Lockheed Martin Centaur upper stage

RD-180 main engine, from Pratt & Whitney/Energomash

Weight at liftoff: 386,818 kg (852,788 lbs) with payload

Height: 58 m (191 ft)

Launch DateThursday, April 20, 2006

Launch Window:2 hours, 50 minutes
4:27-7:17 p.m. EDT
20:27-23:17 GMT

Launch Site:Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla.
Launch Complex 41

End User:SES ASTRA, Luxembourg

Satellite Manufacturer:Lockheed Martin Commercial Space Systems,Newtown, Pa.

Details for the launch broadcast:

  for Europe: transmission on transponder 116 on ASTRA 1G at 19.2E with following reception parameters: downlink frequency: 12669.50 MHz / downlink polarization: vertical /

transponder transmission rate: 22 MS/s QPSK FEC 5/6; Service name: ASTRA VISION 3

  for the US: transmission on transponder 17 on AMC 4 at 101o W , C-band analog with following reception parameters: downlink frequency: 4040 MHz / downlink polarization: vertical / Bandwidth: 36 MHz

  Test signals begin around 3.45 pm EDT (21.45 CET):

Webcast and photos on SES ASTRA’s website  http://www.ses-astra.com

for ASTRA 1KR Mission Overview / downloadable poster art
http://www.ilslaunch.com/stories/Current_Campaigns/


Offline censored account

  • Regular
  • Member
  • Posts: 53
  • Liked: 0
  • Likes Given: 0
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #5 on: 04/19/2006 07:23 pm »
GO Atlas, GO Centaur...............Good luck guys.

Offline Mark Max Q

  • Going Supersonic
  • Full Member
  • ****
  • Posts: 1185
  • Liked: 12
  • Likes Given: 15
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #6 on: 04/19/2006 08:31 pm »
It's been a long time coming. Last Cape launch was New Horizons?

Online edkyle99

  • Expert
  • Senior Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 15391
    • Space Launch Report
  • Liked: 8565
  • Likes Given: 1356
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #7 on: 04/19/2006 09:24 pm »
Quote
Mark Max Q - 19/4/2006  3:31 PM

It's been a long time coming. Last Cape launch was New Horizons?

Yes.  January 19, 2006 on AV-010.  Atlas has ruled at the Cape recently.  
There may be four or so Atlas V launches all told by year's end.  The
Boeing strike has stranded Delta launches since October 2005, but that
should end in May with the planned Delta IV GOES-N launch.  There may
be two Delta IV and one or two Delta II launches out of Canaveral this
year - a thin launch rate compared to the late '90s.

Sea Launch platform Odyssey has out-launched all of Cape Canaveral
so far this year.

 - Ed Kyle

Offline Jim

  • Night Gator
  • Senior Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 37440
  • Cape Canaveral Spaceport
  • Liked: 21450
  • Likes Given: 428
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #8 on: 04/19/2006 11:20 pm »
Quote
edkyle99 - 19/4/2006  5:24 PM
Quote
Mark Max Q - 19/4/2006  3:31 PMIt's been a long time coming. Last Cape launch was New Horizons?
Yes.  January 19, 2006 on AV-010.  Atlas has ruled at the Cape recently.  There may be four or so Atlas V launches all told by year's end.  The Boeing strike has stranded Delta launches since October 2005, but that should end in May with the planned Delta IV GOES-N launch.  There may be two Delta IV and one or two Delta II launches out of Canaveral this year - a thin launch rate compared to the late '90s.Sea Launch platform Odyssey has out-launched all of Cape Canaveral so far this year. - Ed Kyle

It was not the strike that grounded Deltas, it was lack of qualified FTS batteries.  The strike actually saved Boeing some money

Offline Skyrocket

  • Extreme Veteran
  • Senior Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 2631
  • Frankfurt am Main, Germany
  • Liked: 940
  • Likes Given: 172
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #9 on: 04/20/2006 12:08 pm »
A rocket with only one strap-on booster is a rather unusual sight:

http://tinyurl.com/l7yhk

Also unusual (but flown before) is the white painted Centaur stage - probably due to the rather long coasting periods in this launch.

Gunter

Offline Jim

  • Night Gator
  • Senior Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 37440
  • Cape Canaveral Spaceport
  • Liked: 21450
  • Likes Given: 428
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #10 on: 04/20/2006 01:44 pm »
Vehicle is powered up

Offline Jim

  • Night Gator
  • Senior Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 37440
  • Cape Canaveral Spaceport
  • Liked: 21450
  • Likes Given: 428
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #11 on: 04/20/2006 02:36 pm »
Weather is 70% go

Offline R&R

  • Full Member
  • *
  • Posts: 155
  • Liked: 0
  • Likes Given: 0
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #12 on: 04/20/2006 03:46 pm »
Quote
edkyle99 - 20/4/2006  3:24 PM

Quote
Mark Max Q - 19/4/2006  3:31 PM

It's been a long time coming. Last Cape launch was New Horizons?

Yes.  January 19, 2006 on AV-010.  Atlas has ruled at the Cape recently.  
There may be four or so Atlas V launches all told by year's end.  The
Boeing strike has stranded Delta launches since October 2005, but that
should end in May with the planned Delta IV GOES-N launch.  There may
be two Delta IV and one or two Delta II launches out of Canaveral this
year - a thin launch rate compared to the late '90s.

Sea Launch platform Odyssey has out-launched all of Cape Canaveral
so far this year.

 - Ed Kyle

What Jim said is right about the strike, it had no real negative affect.  Also the Atlas V launch rate has benefited by still being commercially marketed.  Delta IV has been stuck (by Boeings own decision) with DOD and a few NASA launches.  After GOES-N will come two Heavies but only one this year.  If the deal is sealed on ULA it could look strangely reminiscent of the Atlas-Titan combo.  Hopefully ULA will help pull commercial customers back to Delta IV since they say they plan to again market there under ULA.  Go Atlas. :)

Online edkyle99

  • Expert
  • Senior Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 15391
    • Space Launch Report
  • Liked: 8565
  • Likes Given: 1356
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #13 on: 04/20/2006 04:24 pm »
Quote
R&R - 20/4/2006  10:46 AM

...  If the deal is sealed on ULA it could look strangely reminiscent of the Atlas-Titan combo.  Hopefully ULA will help pull commercial customers back to Delta IV since they say they plan to again market there under ULA.  Go Atlas. :)

The ULA deal annoucement said that Boeing and Lockheed "have entered into an
agreement to create a joint venture that will combine the production, engineering,
test and launch operations associated with *U.S. government* launches of Boeing
Delta and Lockheed Martin Atlas rockets."

My reading was that ILS would still buy Atlas launches direct from Lockheed rather
than ULA, for example.  

- Ed Kyle

Offline norm103

  • Veteran
  • Full Member
  • **
  • Posts: 207
  • Liked: 0
  • Likes Given: 0
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #14 on: 04/20/2006 05:14 pm »
Why is CNN on in the LCC for during the countdown?

Offline Jim

  • Night Gator
  • Senior Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 37440
  • Cape Canaveral Spaceport
  • Liked: 21450
  • Likes Given: 428
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #15 on: 04/20/2006 05:24 pm »
Quote
norm103 - 20/4/2006  1:14 PM Why is CNN on in the LCC for during the countdown?

That is not the LCC.  It is NASA's Mission Director's Center for ELV launches.  Since it is not a NASA mission, it is just shadowing the countdown

Offline DaveS

  • Shuttle program observer
  • Senior Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 8526
  • Sweden
  • Liked: 1199
  • Likes Given: 65
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #16 on: 04/20/2006 05:40 pm »
Going into the T-120 minute built in hold in about 10 minutes.
"For Sardines, space is no problem!"
-1996 Astronaut class slogan

"We're rolling in the wrong direction but for the right reasons"
-USA engineer about the rollback of Discovery prior to the STS-114 Return To Flight mission

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #17 on: 04/20/2006 05:41 pm »
April 12, 2006
Payload:

ASTRA 1KR
Direct broadcast satellite
Separated mass: Approx. 4,332 kg (9,550 lbs)
Launch Vehicle:

Atlas V, 411 configuration, designated AV-008

    * 4-meter diameter (13.75 ft) payload fairing, 12.9 m/42.3 ft long
    * 1 strap-on solid rocket booster, built by Aerojet, Sacramento, Calif.
    * Single-engine Lockheed Martin Centaur upper stage
    * RD-180 main engine, from Pratt & Whitney/Energomash
    * Weight at liftoff: 386,818 kg (852,788 lbs) with payload
    *

      Height: 58 m (191 ft)

Launch Date

Thursday, April 20, 2006
Launch Window:

2 hours, 50 minutes
4:27-7:17 p.m. EDT
20:27-23:17 GMT
Launch Site:

Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla.
Launch Complex 41
End User:

SES ASTRA, Luxembourg
Satellite Manufacturer:

Lockheed Martin Commercial Space Systems,Newtown, Pa.
Launch Vehicle Manufacturer:

Atlas vehicle and Centaur upper stage built by Lockheed Martin Space Systems in Denver, Colo.; San Diego, Calif.; and Harlingen, Texas.
Launch Services Provider:

International Launch Services, McLean, Va.
Satellite Use:

ASTRA 1KR, with its pan-European footprint, will provide DTH services for the whole of Europe. ASTRA 1KR is also planned to transmit HDTV channels across Europe. It ensures continuity of the unique inter-satellite back-up and provides replacement capacity for ASTRA 1B and ASTRA 1C.
Satellite Statistics:

    * A2100AX model
    * 17th A2100 satellite launched by ILS
    * All Ku-band
    * 32 active transponders first five years, 28 thereafter
    * Operating position 19.2 degrees East longitude
    * 15 years targeted lifetime

Mission Profile:

Atlas V will place ASTRA 1KR into orbit with a geosynchronous transfer orbit mission design, using a subsynchronous trajectory with two Centaur burn phases. The satellite's own attitude and orbital control system will perform a series of burns to lower apogee and raise perigee to geosynchronous altitude, circularize orbit and reduce inclination.
Spacecraft Separation:

About 1 hour 48 minutes after liftoff
Orbital Parameters: Separation

Apogee Altitude: 19,323 nm (35,786 km)
Perigee Altitude: 3,354 nm (6,212 km)
Inclination: 23.97 deg
ILS Mission Statistics:

    * 8th flight of Atlas V
    * 2nd Atlas flight in 2006
    * 3rd ILS mission this year
    * 100th launch for ILS
    * Atlas family has perfect record in 78 consecutive flights

NEWS MEDIA ACTIVITIES

All times are EDT unless otherwise indicated
Vehicle Rollout:

Reservations required, contact Julie Andrews of Lockheed Martin at [email protected] or 321-853-1567. Meet at CCAFS Pass & ID at 10 a.m. Wednesday, April 19, for transfer to bus that will take you to Pad 41.
Remote Camera Set-up:

Meet at CCAFS Pass & ID at 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 19, for transfer to van that will take you to Pad 41.
Media Briefing:

Pre-launch news conference at 4 p.m. Wednesday, April 19, at the Florida Space Authority building, 100 Spaceport Way, outside CCAFS Gate 1.
Launch Viewing:

Accredited media may use NASA's Kennedy Space Center Press Site. Those journalists not holding a permanent NASA press credential and badge should meet at the State Road 3 Pass & ID building by 2:45 p.m. on launch day for badging and escort to the Press Site. Departure at 3 p.m.
Live Broadcast:

In the U.S., AMC-4, transponder 17, C-band analog, 101 degrees West, downlink frequency 4040 MHz (vertical).

In Europe, New Skies NSS 7, transponder WHL3/EUH2 Ch 2, Ku-band digital, 338 degrees East, downlink frequency 11,073.500 (horizontal); symbol rate 6.1113, FEC 3/4.

Test signals begin about 3:45 p.m. EDT (19:45 GMT).
Support NSF via L2 -- Help improve NSF -- Site Rules/Feedback/Updates
**Not a L2 member? Whitelist this forum in your adblocker to support the site and ensure full functionality.**

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #18 on: 04/20/2006 06:09 pm »
For those in the UK (and most of Europe can get these channels I believe).

Live launch: Sky News. BBC News 24 - the latter doing a short feature on STS-121 soon.

Won't be the blanket coverage like we had for New Horizons, but if you're not around on the net, then these will be good options.
Support NSF via L2 -- Help improve NSF -- Site Rules/Feedback/Updates
**Not a L2 member? Whitelist this forum in your adblocker to support the site and ensure full functionality.**

Offline DaveS

  • Shuttle program observer
  • Senior Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 8526
  • Sweden
  • Liked: 1199
  • Likes Given: 65
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #19 on: 04/20/2006 06:25 pm »
Releasing the built in hold in 4 minutes!
"For Sardines, space is no problem!"
-1996 Astronaut class slogan

"We're rolling in the wrong direction but for the right reasons"
-USA engineer about the rollback of Discovery prior to the STS-114 Return To Flight mission

Offline DaveS

  • Shuttle program observer
  • Senior Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 8526
  • Sweden
  • Liked: 1199
  • Likes Given: 65
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #20 on: 04/20/2006 06:30 pm »
T-120 minutes and counting!
"For Sardines, space is no problem!"
-1996 Astronaut class slogan

"We're rolling in the wrong direction but for the right reasons"
-USA engineer about the rollback of Discovery prior to the STS-114 Return To Flight mission

Online edkyle99

  • Expert
  • Senior Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 15391
    • Space Launch Report
  • Liked: 8565
  • Likes Given: 1356
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #21 on: 04/20/2006 06:48 pm »
An interesting launch profile, with a high apogee initial parking orbit (167 x 22,422km x 24.83deg) and a long coast (nearly 1.5 hours) before the second Centaur burn puts Astra 1KR into a 6,212 x 35,786 km x 23.97 deg transfer orbit.  An Atlas 401 could have lofted this payload mass (4,332 kg) to a standard "Cape Canaveral" GTO, but SES Astra originally planned to launch Astra 1KR on an Ariane 5ECA, so the spacecraft probably needed the extra solid booster to make up the delta-v difference provided by Kourou's low inclination.

Is this the first white Centaur on an Atlas V-400 series?

 - Ed Kyle

Offline James Lowe1

  • Member
  • Full Member
  • ****
  • Posts: 846
  • New York City
  • Liked: 1
  • Likes Given: 0
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #22 on: 04/20/2006 06:51 pm »
To confirm the UTC time etc. UK launch time is 9:28pm.

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #23 on: 04/20/2006 06:53 pm »
Support NSF via L2 -- Help improve NSF -- Site Rules/Feedback/Updates
**Not a L2 member? Whitelist this forum in your adblocker to support the site and ensure full functionality.**

Offline Jim

  • Night Gator
  • Senior Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 37440
  • Cape Canaveral Spaceport
  • Liked: 21450
  • Likes Given: 428
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #24 on: 04/20/2006 07:05 pm »
The Atlas booster is starting to frost up

Offline Spirit

  • Veteran
  • Full Member
  • *
  • Posts: 180
  • Liked: 0
  • Likes Given: 0
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #25 on: 04/20/2006 07:17 pm »
Can you guys hear the sound of the live coverage?
There's no sound on my comp. I restarted the program and checked the preferences and options but still I hear nothing.
Regards,
Atanas

Offline Jim

  • Night Gator
  • Senior Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 37440
  • Cape Canaveral Spaceport
  • Liked: 21450
  • Likes Given: 428
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #26 on: 04/20/2006 07:33 pm »
Quote
Spirit - 20/4/2006  3:17 PMCan you guys hear the sound of the live coverage?There's no sound on my comp. I restarted the program and checked the preferences and options but still I hear nothing.

Which website?

Offline Spirit

  • Veteran
  • Full Member
  • *
  • Posts: 180
  • Liked: 0
  • Likes Given: 0
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #27 on: 04/20/2006 07:34 pm »
http://countdown.ksc.nasa.gov/elv/

Is there another live video stream?
Regards,
Atanas

Offline Chris Bergin

Support NSF via L2 -- Help improve NSF -- Site Rules/Feedback/Updates
**Not a L2 member? Whitelist this forum in your adblocker to support the site and ensure full functionality.**

Offline Jim

  • Night Gator
  • Senior Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 37440
  • Cape Canaveral Spaceport
  • Liked: 21450
  • Likes Given: 428
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #29 on: 04/20/2006 07:43 pm »
Quote
Spirit - 20/4/2006  3:34 PMhttp://countdown.ksc.nasa.gov/elv/Is there another live video stream?

There is no audio on those streams from that page

Offline Stardust9906

  • Global Moderator
  • Full Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 1279
  • Durham, UK
  • Liked: 57
  • Likes Given: 1369
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #30 on: 04/20/2006 07:46 pm »

Offline Spirit

  • Veteran
  • Full Member
  • *
  • Posts: 180
  • Liked: 0
  • Likes Given: 0
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #31 on: 04/20/2006 07:47 pm »
I see only a short clip when I play it. Is it going to start later or there is some trick?
Regards,
Atanas

Offline Nick L.

  • Elite Veteran
  • Senior Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 3857
  • A unique little aerospace company
  • Liked: 6
  • Likes Given: 4
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #32 on: 04/20/2006 07:47 pm »
Quote
Chris Bergin - 20/4/2006  2:37 PM

http://streamvox.streamos.com/vyvx/ils042006/

I don't see anything when I click on those links: all I get is the blue screen that tells the mission name and launch time.  :(
"Now you may leave here for four days in space, but when you return it's the same old place..."

Offline Stardust9906

  • Global Moderator
  • Full Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 1279
  • Durham, UK
  • Liked: 57
  • Likes Given: 1369
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #33 on: 04/20/2006 07:50 pm »
Quote
Spirit - 20/4/2006  8:47 PM

I see only a short clip when I play it. Is it going to start later or there is some trick?

Coverage on that stream is listed to start at 4:05 EDT.

Offline Jim

  • Night Gator
  • Senior Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 37440
  • Cape Canaveral Spaceport
  • Liked: 21450
  • Likes Given: 428
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #34 on: 04/20/2006 07:51 pm »
Quote
Nick L. - 20/4/2006  3:47 PM
Quote
Chris Bergin - 20/4/2006  2:37 PMhttp://streamvox.streamos.com/vyvx/ils042006/
I don't see anything when I click on those links: all I get is the blue screen that tells the mission name and launch time.  :(

It doesn't go live until 5 after the hour

Offline Nick L.

  • Elite Veteran
  • Senior Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 3857
  • A unique little aerospace company
  • Liked: 6
  • Likes Given: 4
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #35 on: 04/20/2006 07:51 pm »
Quote
Jim - 20/4/2006  2:51 PM

Quote
Nick L. - 20/4/2006  3:47 PM
Quote
Chris Bergin - 20/4/2006  2:37 PMhttp://streamvox.streamos.com/vyvx/ils042006/
I don't see anything when I click on those links: all I get is the blue screen that tells the mission name and launch time.  :(

It doesn't go live until 5 after the hour

Oh, I see. Sorry about that!
"Now you may leave here for four days in space, but when you return it's the same old place..."

Offline Stardust9906

  • Global Moderator
  • Full Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 1279
  • Durham, UK
  • Liked: 57
  • Likes Given: 1369
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #36 on: 04/20/2006 08:01 pm »

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #37 on: 04/20/2006 08:10 pm »
Support NSF via L2 -- Help improve NSF -- Site Rules/Feedback/Updates
**Not a L2 member? Whitelist this forum in your adblocker to support the site and ensure full functionality.**

Offline James Lowe1

  • Member
  • Full Member
  • ****
  • Posts: 846
  • New York City
  • Liked: 1
  • Likes Given: 0
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #38 on: 04/20/2006 08:29 pm »

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #39 on: 04/20/2006 08:30 pm »
Attempting to record the launch - which will be available a few minutes afterwards.
Support NSF via L2 -- Help improve NSF -- Site Rules/Feedback/Updates
**Not a L2 member? Whitelist this forum in your adblocker to support the site and ensure full functionality.**

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #40 on: 04/20/2006 08:31 pm »
T-10 minutes.
Support NSF via L2 -- Help improve NSF -- Site Rules/Feedback/Updates
**Not a L2 member? Whitelist this forum in your adblocker to support the site and ensure full functionality.**

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #41 on: 04/20/2006 08:33 pm »
Polling underway.

All GO for launch.
Support NSF via L2 -- Help improve NSF -- Site Rules/Feedback/Updates
**Not a L2 member? Whitelist this forum in your adblocker to support the site and ensure full functionality.**

Offline Nick L.

  • Elite Veteran
  • Senior Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 3857
  • A unique little aerospace company
  • Liked: 6
  • Likes Given: 4
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #42 on: 04/20/2006 08:34 pm »
All go for launch!
It's sure going to be an odd sight seeing the rocket climb away with only one SRB.
"Now you may leave here for four days in space, but when you return it's the same old place..."

Offline Stardust9906

  • Global Moderator
  • Full Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 1279
  • Durham, UK
  • Liked: 57
  • Likes Given: 1369
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #43 on: 04/20/2006 08:35 pm »

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #44 on: 04/20/2006 08:36 pm »
Count picked up at T-4mins
Support NSF via L2 -- Help improve NSF -- Site Rules/Feedback/Updates
**Not a L2 member? Whitelist this forum in your adblocker to support the site and ensure full functionality.**

Offline Jim

  • Night Gator
  • Senior Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 37440
  • Cape Canaveral Spaceport
  • Liked: 21450
  • Likes Given: 428
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #45 on: 04/20/2006 08:37 pm »
going outside to watch

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #46 on: 04/20/2006 08:38 pm »
On internal power. T-2 mins and counting.
Support NSF via L2 -- Help improve NSF -- Site Rules/Feedback/Updates
**Not a L2 member? Whitelist this forum in your adblocker to support the site and ensure full functionality.**

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #47 on: 04/20/2006 08:39 pm »
Launch enabled. Vehicle armed and smooth on internal.

T-1:20 mins
Support NSF via L2 -- Help improve NSF -- Site Rules/Feedback/Updates
**Not a L2 member? Whitelist this forum in your adblocker to support the site and ensure full functionality.**

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #48 on: 04/20/2006 08:39 pm »
Vent valves locked. T-1 min

Go Atlas.
Support NSF via L2 -- Help improve NSF -- Site Rules/Feedback/Updates
**Not a L2 member? Whitelist this forum in your adblocker to support the site and ensure full functionality.**

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #49 on: 04/20/2006 08:40 pm »
T-10 seconds. Go Atlas. Go Centaur.

GREEN BOARD.

Support NSF via L2 -- Help improve NSF -- Site Rules/Feedback/Updates
**Not a L2 member? Whitelist this forum in your adblocker to support the site and ensure full functionality.**

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #50 on: 04/20/2006 08:40 pm »
Launch!

Looks very strange with the single booster.
Support NSF via L2 -- Help improve NSF -- Site Rules/Feedback/Updates
**Not a L2 member? Whitelist this forum in your adblocker to support the site and ensure full functionality.**

Offline Nick L.

  • Elite Veteran
  • Senior Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 3857
  • A unique little aerospace company
  • Liked: 6
  • Likes Given: 4
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #51 on: 04/20/2006 08:40 pm »
Liftoff!
"Now you may leave here for four days in space, but when you return it's the same old place..."

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #52 on: 04/20/2006 08:42 pm »
T+1min. Max Q. Vehicle flight nominal

Waiting for SRB burout.

13.5 miles.

2,500 mph.
Support NSF via L2 -- Help improve NSF -- Site Rules/Feedback/Updates
**Not a L2 member? Whitelist this forum in your adblocker to support the site and ensure full functionality.**

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #53 on: 04/20/2006 08:43 pm »
2.9 Gs.

SRB jettison.

T+2:30mins.
Support NSF via L2 -- Help improve NSF -- Site Rules/Feedback/Updates
**Not a L2 member? Whitelist this forum in your adblocker to support the site and ensure full functionality.**

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #54 on: 04/20/2006 08:43 pm »
Standby for first stage burnout and sep.

32miles.

6,900 mph.

T+3 mins.
Support NSF via L2 -- Help improve NSF -- Site Rules/Feedback/Updates
**Not a L2 member? Whitelist this forum in your adblocker to support the site and ensure full functionality.**

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #55 on: 04/20/2006 08:44 pm »
First Stage seperation. T+4 mins.
Support NSF via L2 -- Help improve NSF -- Site Rules/Feedback/Updates
**Not a L2 member? Whitelist this forum in your adblocker to support the site and ensure full functionality.**

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #56 on: 04/20/2006 08:45 pm »
T+5mins.

100 miles high. 350 miles downrange.

12,000 mph.
Support NSF via L2 -- Help improve NSF -- Site Rules/Feedback/Updates
**Not a L2 member? Whitelist this forum in your adblocker to support the site and ensure full functionality.**

Offline mong'

  • Whatever gets us to Mars
  • Full Member
  • ****
  • Posts: 689
  • Liked: 0
  • Likes Given: 0
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #57 on: 04/20/2006 08:46 pm »
Damn that thing was fast !
Beautiful launch !

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #58 on: 04/20/2006 08:47 pm »
I've managed to record a super high quality launch video. Uploading it as we speak.
Support NSF via L2 -- Help improve NSF -- Site Rules/Feedback/Updates
**Not a L2 member? Whitelist this forum in your adblocker to support the site and ensure full functionality.**

Offline Nick L.

  • Elite Veteran
  • Senior Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 3857
  • A unique little aerospace company
  • Liked: 6
  • Likes Given: 4
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #59 on: 04/20/2006 08:48 pm »
Quote
Chris Bergin - 20/4/2006  3:47 PM

I've managed to record a super high quality launch video. Uploading it as we speak.

Chris, I can't wait to see your video!  ;)
"Now you may leave here for four days in space, but when you return it's the same old place..."

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #60 on: 04/20/2006 08:50 pm »
Quote
Jim - 20/4/2006  9:37 PM

going outside to watch

I'm very jealous.
Support NSF via L2 -- Help improve NSF -- Site Rules/Feedback/Updates
**Not a L2 member? Whitelist this forum in your adblocker to support the site and ensure full functionality.**

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #61 on: 04/20/2006 08:51 pm »
Stardust, did you get some screenshots? I'll capture some off the launch video if not.
Support NSF via L2 -- Help improve NSF -- Site Rules/Feedback/Updates
**Not a L2 member? Whitelist this forum in your adblocker to support the site and ensure full functionality.**

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #62 on: 04/20/2006 08:53 pm »
T+12 minutes. Waiting for ILS to update launch status. All nominal on the data run.
Support NSF via L2 -- Help improve NSF -- Site Rules/Feedback/Updates
**Not a L2 member? Whitelist this forum in your adblocker to support the site and ensure full functionality.**

Offline Stardust9906

  • Global Moderator
  • Full Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 1279
  • Durham, UK
  • Liked: 57
  • Likes Given: 1369
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #63 on: 04/20/2006 08:54 pm »
Quote
Chris Bergin - 20/4/2006  9:51 PM

Stardust, did you get some screenshots? I'll capture some off the launch video if not.

I have them.  Preparing now.

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #64 on: 04/20/2006 08:55 pm »
T+15 minutes. In the first burn of the Centuar. All nominal.
Support NSF via L2 -- Help improve NSF -- Site Rules/Feedback/Updates
**Not a L2 member? Whitelist this forum in your adblocker to support the site and ensure full functionality.**

Offline Stardust9906

  • Global Moderator
  • Full Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 1279
  • Durham, UK
  • Liked: 57
  • Likes Given: 1369
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #65 on: 04/20/2006 08:55 pm »

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #66 on: 04/20/2006 08:59 pm »
Thanks Stardust :)

Vehicle at 104 miles. Into the long coast phase. L+17 minutes.

High quality launch video available in 60 seconds.
Support NSF via L2 -- Help improve NSF -- Site Rules/Feedback/Updates
**Not a L2 member? Whitelist this forum in your adblocker to support the site and ensure full functionality.**

Offline Stardust9906

  • Global Moderator
  • Full Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 1279
  • Durham, UK
  • Liked: 57
  • Likes Given: 1369
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #67 on: 04/20/2006 09:01 pm »

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #68 on: 04/20/2006 09:04 pm »
High quality launch video...you need to be a forum member (it's free) to view the video (this helps the servers avoid blowing up from all the lurkers we have here).

http://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=2272&posts=1#M32022
Support NSF via L2 -- Help improve NSF -- Site Rules/Feedback/Updates
**Not a L2 member? Whitelist this forum in your adblocker to support the site and ensure full functionality.**

Offline eeergo

RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #69 on: 04/20/2006 09:06 pm »
Just before liftoff, at engine ignition, it looked like they had an on-board camera on the rocket, but they didn't show any footage... Wonder if they will show it afterwards?
-DaviD-

Offline Stardust9906

  • Global Moderator
  • Full Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 1279
  • Durham, UK
  • Liked: 57
  • Likes Given: 1369
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #70 on: 04/20/2006 09:08 pm »

Offline Spirit

  • Veteran
  • Full Member
  • *
  • Posts: 180
  • Liked: 0
  • Likes Given: 0
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #71 on: 04/20/2006 09:08 pm »
As far as I could see the lens was dirty.
Regards,
Atanas

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #72 on: 04/20/2006 09:08 pm »
Quote
eeergo - 20/4/2006  10:06 PM

Just before liftoff, at engine ignition, it looked like they had an on-board camera on the rocket, but they didn't show any footage... Wonder if they will show it afterwards?

I believe that camera's sole purpose is to show engine ignition. I'm not sure if it's even on the rocket.
Support NSF via L2 -- Help improve NSF -- Site Rules/Feedback/Updates
**Not a L2 member? Whitelist this forum in your adblocker to support the site and ensure full functionality.**

Offline Jamie Young

  • This custom rank is currently being decided on
  • Full Member
  • ****
  • Posts: 1327
  • Denver
  • Liked: 52
  • Likes Given: 151
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #73 on: 04/20/2006 09:10 pm »
Quote
Chris Bergin - 20/4/2006  4:04 PM

High quality launch video:

http://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=2272&posts=1#M32022

Wow, that's a great video. Much better than the small box ILS have.

Online edkyle99

  • Expert
  • Senior Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 15391
    • Space Launch Report
  • Liked: 8565
  • Likes Given: 1356
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #74 on: 04/20/2006 09:12 pm »
I notice that your headline says "Launch Success".  Wouldn't it be better
to wait until spacecraft separation, after the second Centaur burn, to
declare "success"?

 - Ed Kyle

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #75 on: 04/20/2006 09:16 pm »
Quote
edkyle99 - 20/4/2006  10:12 PM

I notice that your headline says "Launch Success".  Wouldn't it be better
to wait until spacecraft separation, after the second Centaur burn, to
declare "success"?

 - Ed Kyle

I'm a very confident person ;)

Yes, good point. Getting carried away...I'll change it.
Support NSF via L2 -- Help improve NSF -- Site Rules/Feedback/Updates
**Not a L2 member? Whitelist this forum in your adblocker to support the site and ensure full functionality.**

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #76 on: 04/20/2006 09:18 pm »
Live coverage will resume in an hour.
Support NSF via L2 -- Help improve NSF -- Site Rules/Feedback/Updates
**Not a L2 member? Whitelist this forum in your adblocker to support the site and ensure full functionality.**

Offline Stardust9906

  • Global Moderator
  • Full Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 1279
  • Durham, UK
  • Liked: 57
  • Likes Given: 1369
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #77 on: 04/20/2006 09:19 pm »

Offline SimonShuttle

  • Elite Veteran
  • Full Member
  • ****
  • Posts: 1795
  • Manchester, England
  • Liked: 44
  • Likes Given: 89
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #78 on: 04/20/2006 09:22 pm »
Thanks for the images and info. And a big thanks for the video! That's what I call a fast turnaround :)

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #79 on: 04/20/2006 09:28 pm »
Pleasure.

Don't forget, we've got another launch tomorrow morning (10am UK time - 5am EST)
Support NSF via L2 -- Help improve NSF -- Site Rules/Feedback/Updates
**Not a L2 member? Whitelist this forum in your adblocker to support the site and ensure full functionality.**

Offline eeergo

RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #80 on: 04/20/2006 09:31 pm »
Thanks indeed for the coverage, really nice! And for the awesome video! I'll be here tomorrow, following another of your great live threads! :)
-DaviD-

Offline Spirit

  • Veteran
  • Full Member
  • *
  • Posts: 180
  • Liked: 0
  • Likes Given: 0
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #81 on: 04/20/2006 09:34 pm »
I will be working till 5 p.m UK tomorrow  :(
I haven't watched Delta II launch for ages :(
Regards,
Atanas

Offline kraisee

  • Expert
  • Senior Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 10560
  • Liked: 807
  • Likes Given: 40
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #82 on: 04/20/2006 09:38 pm »
The launch looked great from down in Cocoa Beach.   Got a nice "distant thunder" rumble for quite a few minutes too, even at 17 miles from the pad.

http://65.33.118.71/Public/DSCN0241m.JPG">

Ross.
"The meek shall inherit the Earth -- the rest of us will go to the stars"
-Robert A. Heinlein

Offline Spirit

  • Veteran
  • Full Member
  • *
  • Posts: 180
  • Liked: 0
  • Likes Given: 0
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #83 on: 04/20/2006 09:45 pm »
Great shot! I wish I was there too!
Regards,
Atanas

Offline Tony T. Harris

  • Full Member
  • *
  • Posts: 178
  • Liked: 14
  • Likes Given: 2
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #84 on: 04/20/2006 09:52 pm »
Quote
kraisee - 20/4/2006  4:38 PM

The launch looked great from down in Cocoa Beach.   Got a nice "distant thunder" rumble for quite a few minutes too, even at 17 miles from the pad.

http://65.33.118.71/Public/DSCN0241m.JPG">

Ross.

I had a very similar view. Next time I should arrange to meet you. I know that store!
Former Saturn V propulsion systems lead engineer.

Offline Jim

  • Night Gator
  • Senior Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 37440
  • Cape Canaveral Spaceport
  • Liked: 21450
  • Likes Given: 428
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #85 on: 04/20/2006 10:12 pm »
Checkout Stardust's photo's on post #32021.  You can see the angle of the RD-180 exhaust countering the SRB's thrust  

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #86 on: 04/20/2006 10:24 pm »
Into the second burn of the Centuar.
Support NSF via L2 -- Help improve NSF -- Site Rules/Feedback/Updates
**Not a L2 member? Whitelist this forum in your adblocker to support the site and ensure full functionality.**

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #87 on: 04/20/2006 10:27 pm »
Shutdown. Standing by for spacecraft seperation.
Support NSF via L2 -- Help improve NSF -- Site Rules/Feedback/Updates
**Not a L2 member? Whitelist this forum in your adblocker to support the site and ensure full functionality.**

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #88 on: 04/20/2006 10:29 pm »
Spacecraft seperation! Well done to all involved!
Support NSF via L2 -- Help improve NSF -- Site Rules/Feedback/Updates
**Not a L2 member? Whitelist this forum in your adblocker to support the site and ensure full functionality.**

Offline DaveS

  • Shuttle program observer
  • Senior Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 8526
  • Sweden
  • Liked: 1199
  • Likes Given: 65
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #89 on: 04/20/2006 10:29 pm »
Spacecraft seperation confirmed!
"For Sardines, space is no problem!"
-1996 Astronaut class slogan

"We're rolling in the wrong direction but for the right reasons"
-USA engineer about the rollback of Discovery prior to the STS-114 Return To Flight mission

Offline R&R

  • Full Member
  • *
  • Posts: 155
  • Liked: 0
  • Likes Given: 0
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #90 on: 04/20/2006 11:01 pm »
Quote
edkyle99 - 21/4/2006  10:24 AM

Quote
R&R - 20/4/2006  10:46 AM

...  If the deal is sealed on ULA it could look strangely reminiscent of the Atlas-Titan combo.  Hopefully ULA will help pull commercial customers back to Delta IV since they say they plan to again market there under ULA.  Go Atlas. :)

The ULA deal annoucement said that Boeing and Lockheed "have entered into an
agreement to create a joint venture that will combine the production, engineering,
test and launch operations associated with *U.S. government* launches of Boeing
Delta and Lockheed Martin Atlas rockets."

My reading was that ILS would still buy Atlas launches direct from Lockheed rather
than ULA, for example.  

- Ed Kyle

ILS can't buy from Lockheed if ULA is finailized. since they are in it with Boeing evenly.  ILS will buy from ULA who will offer whatever vehicle meets the spacecraft requirements, launch timframe cost desires etc.  Lockheed and Boeing split the profits from any ULA launch 50-50.  ILS and Boeing Launch Services will market launches based on the best deal they can get from ULA. Their incentive will be to get as much profit from the selling of the launch and won't care what rocket it goes on.  ULA is prohibited from selling launches to anyone else for several years by the joint venture agreement.

Offline Shuttle Man

  • Veteran
  • Full Member
  • ****
  • Posts: 498
  • KSC
  • Liked: 28
  • Likes Given: 2
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #91 on: 04/20/2006 11:08 pm »
Great work on the live event coverage again!
Ex-Apollo, waiting for NASA to finish what we started.

Online edkyle99

  • Expert
  • Senior Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 15391
    • Space Launch Report
  • Liked: 8565
  • Likes Given: 1356
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #92 on: 04/21/2006 02:42 am »
Quote
R&R - 20/4/2006  6:01 PM

Quote
edkyle99 - 21/4/2006  10:24 AM

Quote
R&R - 20/4/2006  10:46 AM

...  If the deal is sealed on ULA it could look strangely reminiscent of the Atlas-Titan combo.  Hopefully ULA will help pull commercial customers back to Delta IV since they say they plan to again market there under ULA.  Go Atlas. :)

The ULA deal annoucement said that Boeing and Lockheed "have entered into an
agreement to create a joint venture that will combine the production, engineering,
test and launch operations associated with *U.S. government* launches of Boeing
Delta and Lockheed Martin Atlas rockets."

My reading was that ILS would still buy Atlas launches direct from Lockheed rather
than ULA, for example.  

- Ed Kyle

ILS can't buy from Lockheed if ULA is finailized. since they are in it with Boeing evenly.  ILS will buy from ULA who will offer whatever vehicle meets the spacecraft requirements, launch timframe cost desires etc.  Lockheed and Boeing split the profits from any ULA launch 50-50.  ILS and Boeing Launch Services will market launches based on the best deal they can get from ULA. Their incentive will be to get as much profit from the selling of the launch and won't care what rocket it goes on.  ULA is prohibited from selling launches to anyone else for several years by the joint venture agreement.

Does this mean that Boeing Launch Services could buy Atlas launches?  That ILS could fly Delta IV?  The original press release said that ILS and BLS would not be participants in the Alliance.

If true, I would expect Delta IV to disappear in short order since Atlas will surely beat it on a cost basis.

 - Ed Kyle

Online edkyle99

  • Expert
  • Senior Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 15391
    • Space Launch Report
  • Liked: 8565
  • Likes Given: 1356
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #93 on: 04/21/2006 03:04 am »
Quote
Jim - 20/4/2006  5:12 PM

Checkout Stardust's photo's on post #32021.  You can see the angle of the RD-180 exhaust countering the SRB's thrust  

Funky!  Was that thing "skidding" sideways a bit as it initially rose from the pad, or was that an optical illusion?

 - Ed Kyle

Offline Rocket Guy

  • Full Member
  • ****
  • Posts: 1349
  • Liked: 7
  • Likes Given: 1
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #94 on: 04/21/2006 03:47 am »
It was a beautiful launch, crystal clear skies and nice sun angle. Atlas deserves a toast. They pick a date six months in advance and off it goes to the second. Will have launch photos soon.

Offline censored account

  • Regular
  • Member
  • Posts: 53
  • Liked: 0
  • Likes Given: 0
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #95 on: 04/21/2006 04:17 am »
Well done Atlas!

Offline Rocket Guy

  • Full Member
  • ****
  • Posts: 1349
  • Liked: 7
  • Likes Given: 1
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #96 on: 04/21/2006 05:31 am »

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #97 on: 04/21/2006 06:26 am »
Very nice. Now get yourself on a fast plane to Vandenberg ;)
Support NSF via L2 -- Help improve NSF -- Site Rules/Feedback/Updates
**Not a L2 member? Whitelist this forum in your adblocker to support the site and ensure full functionality.**

Offline quark

  • Veteran
  • Full Member
  • ****
  • Posts: 444
  • Liked: 0
  • Likes Given: 0
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #98 on: 04/21/2006 06:34 am »
Under ULA, ILS would continue to market Atlas to commercial customers.  Those Atlas rockets would be built and operated by ULA under a subcontract to ILS.  ILS would not market Delta rockets.  BLS would have marketing & sales responsibility for Delta to the commercial market.  However, Delta IV is not currently for sale commercially.

The skidding of AV-008 was real.  The RD-180 has to gimbal about a degree to balance the moment from the single SRB.  That gimbal is in the same direction as the 3 degree fixed angle of the SRB.  The result is a side force that causes the vehicle to "crab" a little.  All this is planned into the mission design...

79 consecutive successes for the Atlas program.  :)  :)  :)  :)

Online edkyle99

  • Expert
  • Senior Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 15391
    • Space Launch Report
  • Liked: 8565
  • Likes Given: 1356
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #99 on: 04/21/2006 01:57 pm »
Quote
quark - 21/4/2006  1:34 AM

The skidding of AV-008 was real.  The RD-180 has to gimbal about a degree to balance the moment from the single SRB.  That gimbal is in the same direction as the 3 degree fixed angle of the SRB.  The result is a side force that causes the vehicle to "crab" a little.  All this is planned into the mission design...

79 consecutive successes for the Atlas program.  :)  :)  :)  :)

That makes sense, since the RD-180 must take a moment to fully gimbal after
liftoff - plus the roll program may have to happen then.  The forces seemed
to balance out after a few seconds.  Kinda neat.

79 consecutive successes for Centaur on an Atlas (a Centaur failed on a Titan
a few years ago, due to faulty programming), yes, but only eight for
Atlas V.  That CCB and its SRBs are completely different animals than the
balloon tank Atlases.  This was, for example, only the 14th flight of an
RD-180.

 - Ed Kyle

Offline Kayla

  • Extreme Veteran
  • Full Member
  • ***
  • Posts: 396
  • Liked: 0
  • Likes Given: 0
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #100 on: 04/21/2006 06:26 pm »
Even more impressive for the Atlas team. 100% mission success on 7 different versions of the Atlas: Atlas II, IIA, IIAS, IIIA, IIIB & V-4XY, & V-5XY (Counting all subsequent Atlas V variants as 1 Type).  Can anyone else in the industry claim a similar development success record?  Shows the evolutionary development and continuous product improvement actually work!

Offline Rocket Guy

  • Full Member
  • ****
  • Posts: 1349
  • Liked: 7
  • Likes Given: 1
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #101 on: 04/21/2006 07:32 pm »
RD-180 gimbal for the one SRB was 0.5 degrees (out of 8 maximum in any direction!). Not bad at all.

Offline Flightstar

  • Lurking around OPF High Bay 2
  • Full Member
  • ****
  • Posts: 1894
  • KSC, Florida
  • Liked: 78
  • Likes Given: 8
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #102 on: 04/21/2006 07:57 pm »
Quote
Kayla - 21/4/2006  1:26 PM

Even more impressive for the Atlas team. 100% mission success on 7 different versions of the Atlas: Atlas II, IIA, IIAS, IIIA, IIIB & V-4XY, & V-5XY (Counting all subsequent Atlas V variants as 1 Type).  Can anyone else in the industry claim a similar development success record?  Shows the evolutionary development and continuous product improvement actually work!

Hear hear!

Online edkyle99

  • Expert
  • Senior Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 15391
    • Space Launch Report
  • Liked: 8565
  • Likes Given: 1356
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #103 on: 04/21/2006 08:15 pm »
Quote
Kayla - 21/4/2006  1:26 PM

Even more impressive for the Atlas team. 100% mission success on 7 different versions of the Atlas: Atlas II, IIA, IIAS, IIIA, IIIB & V-4XY, & V-5XY (Counting all subsequent Atlas V variants as 1 Type).  Can anyone else in the industry claim a similar development success record?  Shows the evolutionary development and continuous product improvement actually work!

Ariane 4 comes closest, with 74 consecutive successes using the various Ariane 4 variants (still best for a single GTO launcher model series).  But for shear consecutive success numbers, the current leader is reportedly Tsyklon 2 with a current string of 91 consecutive successes.  The R-7 Soyuz/Molniya launcher managed something like 147 consecutive successes during the 1990s.    Delta 2 currently has a Delta-best run of 65 consecutive successes underway.  Shuttle worked 87 times in a row, but is perceived to be a howling failure.

They're doing something right in Littleton, but this week's launch was still only the 8th Atlas V successes in a row.  Proton M worked perfectly during its first 10 flights, Shuttle during its first 24, etc. ...

 - Ed Kyle

Offline Kayla

  • Extreme Veteran
  • Full Member
  • ***
  • Posts: 396
  • Liked: 0
  • Likes Given: 0
RE: LIVE: Atlas V - ASTRA 1KR launch: April 20
« Reply #104 on: 04/22/2006 12:30 am »
Very good summary of successes across the industry!  Congratulations to all that are trying in the very challenging environment of launch.  

I was not trying to say that Atlas had the greatest launch success record, although it is among the best.  But to have that many different development projects go with 100% success is real testament to the Atlas team!  They learned from the problems of the 1980’s and the Atlas I.  It is this type of successful development that NASA should be taking advantage of.

Shuttle has truly has a mixed record.  As you say 87 success in a row is fantastic, as are its on orbit and return capabilities.  However, at almost $5B/year to launch 4 or 5 missions, it is overly expensive.  Not having an ascent abort capability was a tragedy.  And the current situation of relying on the Russians to get American astronauts to orbit is a travesty.  It is time for NASA to take a lesson from the military.  For Space Exploration to succeed NASA must have assured access to orbit, meaning multiple launch options.

Tags:
 

Advertisement NovaTech
Advertisement Northrop Grumman
Advertisement
Advertisement Margaritaville Beach Resort South Padre Island
Advertisement Brady Kenniston
Advertisement NextSpaceflight
Advertisement Nathan Barker Photography
1