This article is a "tour de force" Chris... Thank you!
Is this thread only for discussing about construction of Pad39A, or generally about FH maiden flight?
It is my understanding that LC-39A will also be used for NASA-funded Falcon-9 v.1.1 launches too, including Dragon cargo and crew. I'm sure there are lots of folk at KSC who are glad that ISS crews will launch from their side of the island rather than from CCAFS. It occurs to me that the RSS could be re-purposed too, some structural modifications so it folds around the Falcon-9 to allow on-pad servicing rather than having to roll back to the HIF. From the article, I got the impression that this isn't in SpaceX's plans right now but it might be at least a Powerpoint proposal somewhere in the organisation.
It seems that the tower is not needed either, since the TEL can provide the function.And can some one tell me what is Boca Chica launch site intended for? Forgive me if this question has beem asked.
Also, there is no difference whether ISS crews launch from KSC or CCAFS.
Quote from: Jim on 11/17/2014 05:25 pmAlso, there is no difference whether ISS crews launch from KSC or CCAFS.In engineering and operational terms? Quite correct. However, this is about politics, perceptions and managerial turf. In that environment, it matters very much.