Quote from: smfarmer11 on 02/28/2017 04:19 pmThe kestrel in the trunk idea is a non starter mainly because it's use of cryogenic propellants. Better would be a superDraco with a higher expansion ration for better ISP, and the storability of hypergolics. However this subject was discussed extensively in this thread:https://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?topic=40318.0As for "junk in the trunk" I don't see it becoming a service module but I do think it will likely carry one or even a few expendable free flying camera equipped cubesats or something similar that will separate, maneuver, and maintain somewhat close formation with the capsule as it swings by the moon to provide the ultimate drone imagery of the Dragon with the lunar surface rotating underneath. Images will be transmitted to the capsule as part of the tourist package and for SpaceX promotional use. Such a thing could also be as simple as a few wifi GoPros or commercial 360 degree ball cameras ejected from under the nose cap.
The kestrel in the trunk idea is a non starter mainly because it's use of cryogenic propellants. Better would be a superDraco with a higher expansion ration for better ISP, and the storability of hypergolics. However this subject was discussed extensively in this thread:https://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?topic=40318.0
Great minds think alike Quote from: Helodriver on 02/28/2017 05:09 pmQuote from: smfarmer11 on 02/28/2017 04:19 pmThe kestrel in the trunk idea is a non starter mainly because it's use of cryogenic propellants. Better would be a superDraco with a higher expansion ration for better ISP, and the storability of hypergolics. However this subject was discussed extensively in this thread:https://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?topic=40318.0As for "junk in the trunk" I don't see it becoming a service module but I do think it will likely carry one or even a few expendable free flying camera equipped cubesats or something similar that will separate, maneuver, and maintain somewhat close formation with the capsule as it swings by the moon to provide the ultimate drone imagery of the Dragon with the lunar surface rotating underneath. Images will be transmitted to the capsule as part of the tourist package and for SpaceX promotional use. Such a thing could also be as simple as a few wifi GoPros or commercial 360 degree ball cameras ejected from under the nose cap.
You're thinking of something like this: https://phys.org/news/2016-10-selfie-microsatellite-captures-images-chinese.html
They have been flying prototypes in the ISS for years. See S.P.H.E.R.E.S.They pre-date VR/ball cams but the guidance, communication and propulsion (warm CO2) has gotten a lot of flying time.Creating an update with modern batteries and processing power would seem a logical evolution.
To simplify the thing, it could be a one use item. It would be released at the optimum time to get the hero shot, and then left on its own. This would eliminate worries about it doing any damage. Alternately, it could be on an extensible arm (selfie stick) to capture images like Curiousity has. And then fold back up. This eliminates the need for antennas and RF interference worries. Matthew
At one point, this was part of the CONOPS for ISS. It was a piece of hardware called AERCam. A proof of concept demonstration flew on STS-87. I can't find any concrete information for when or why it was cancelled, though.
Getting a shot of the Dragon re-entering the Earth's atmosphere would be Extra Credit. Like, lots of freakin extra credit. And I think this can be done.
A. After passing the moon, the camera trajectory is going divert from the Dragon because mid course corrections. And since the Dragon does not thrusters in couples, any attitude change is going to result in a delta VB. What is going to aim the camera at the Dragon?C. Also, what is going to keep the camera from hitting the Dragon? There still is a chance of collision.D. There is no point in doing this during entry. The plasma will block any imaging.