Author Topic: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)  (Read 65732 times)

Offline Chris Bergin

This will be the live update thread for this launch attempt (1pm West Coast, 9pm UK).

This thread will be where Braddock (our Private Space Flight writer) will be entering live updates from the official media line SpaceX are providing. There is no webcast of any kind apart from the one for the media at the SpaceX HQ.

Current Status:

http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/content/?id=4073
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Offline Chris Bergin

Additional info just in, kindly posted by Keith. (Bringing as much of the required info into one thread).

Quote
kcowing - 25/11/2005  1:42 PM

Just got another SpaceX update:

Update 24 Nov 2005 9:10 pm EST: All prelaunch preparation is complete.  The final task of test firing the torch igniters worked on the first attempt, making us green for launch.  Since our launch was bumped by a day to Saturday (California time), we will make tomorrow a shorter day and do some of the optional checkouts of systems that might cause a halt in the countdown.

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Offline Chris Bergin

Previous SpaceX articles for background:

http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/content/?id=38 - SpaceX awarded $100m USAF contract

http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/content/?id=3832 - SpaceX reveals Falcon 1 Halloween date (delayed)

http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/content/?id=3937 - SpaceX sues Lock-Mart and Boeing

http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/content/?id=4062 - SPACEX set maiden flight - goals
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Offline Flightstar

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #3 on: 11/25/2005 01:54 pm »
All the best to them, although the doubts on the Merlin will prove to be an interesting one to watch.

Offline David AF

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #4 on: 11/25/2005 02:27 pm »
Unusual for the range to be lacking notice to the point of 24 hrs. Happens, but very rare.
F-22 Raptor instructor

Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #5 on: 11/25/2005 02:35 pm »
I was wondering if perhaps with the rainy weather moving in on the islands, if the Army moved up a higher priority launch to try to get the weather.  I imagine SpaceX has some sort of secondary status on the range.

-braddock

Offline Launch Fan

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #6 on: 11/25/2005 02:38 pm »
Loving your work, Braddock. Do you know what military launch this is?

Offline NASA_Twix_JSC

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #7 on: 11/25/2005 04:57 pm »
60 percent chance of unfavorable weather for tomorrow's launch window.

Offline newsartist

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #8 on: 11/25/2005 08:40 pm »
The radar hasn't worked for a bit, but here is the close focus satellite imagery for the islands:

http://www.rts-wx.com/

Offline Ad Astra

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #9 on: 11/25/2005 10:02 pm »
Looks like they had a chance right now. Weather cleared just in the last 30 minutes from what I can see.

Offline Launch Fan

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #10 on: 11/25/2005 10:51 pm »
Well for the last few hours its been like this. Correct me if I'm wrong, but is the downrange to the North East? If so, the weather was close, but stayed to the other end of the Island. The radar still isn't working to show the rain, so I'm only talking about cloud as if that is where the rain is.

Offline Launch Fan

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #11 on: 11/25/2005 10:54 pm »
The loop (remember, if you aren't viewing this within a short period of me posting this) shows everything mainly stayed to the south, south west of the Island.

http://www.rts-wx.com/satellite/loops/MTSAT-IR.shtml

Offline Orbiter Obvious

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #12 on: 11/26/2005 03:26 am »
Did anyone find out what the military launch was that held up the range?

Offline lmike

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #13 on: 11/26/2005 09:20 am »
Some new photos of the beast: http://www.spaceflightnow.com/falcon/f1/prelaunch.html  (sorry if it's been posted)  As an engineer, I just marvel at the PURE SIMPLICITY of their infrastructure... Check out their "erector truck" (and it traveled like that--the rocket on the truck, on a barge from the mainland!!!), and the "flame pit" really a deflection plate, a dozen people for the operations in the trailer with some PCs, all in all.  Granted for a half-a-tonne payload, but still WOW!  If NASA can strive to same standards from the beginnings I'll be happy.

Offline FransonUK

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #14 on: 11/26/2005 10:21 am »
May I annoy you by saying it would look better with wings ;)

Hope they get it launched tonight.
Don't ya wish your spaceship was hot like me

Offline UK Shuttle Clan

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #15 on: 11/26/2005 10:25 am »
Any latest on the weather for tonight?

Offline Chris Bergin

Quote
lmike - 26/11/2005  10:20 AM

Some new photos of the beast: http://www.spaceflightnow.com/falcon/f1/prelaunch.html  (sorry if it's been posted)  As an engineer, I just marvel at the PURE SIMPLICITY of their infrastructure... Check out their "erector truck" (and it traveled like that--the rocket on the truck, on a barge from the mainland!!!), and the "flame pit" really a deflection plate, a dozen people for the operations in the trailer with some PCs, all in all.  Granted for a half-a-tonne payload, but still WOW!  If NASA can strive to same standards from the beginnings I'll be happy.

Those haven't been posted before, but they're off the SpaceX website where there's a few more - including on of the "rocket on a truck" outside a building in a US city (which I forgot).

Elon's people basically drove their rocket into town! :)

Now one for you engineers out there. Do you feel this is the best low cost "does what it says on the tin" type of rocket? I keep hearing these doubts about the Merlin. Anything you would personally have done different with the mandate they plan for their family of rockets?
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Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #17 on: 11/26/2005 11:08 am »
Elon said that only a total of 25 SpaceX employees would be on the Atoll for the launch.  I'm sure most of them are just watching or on-site as a contingency.  It seems realistic that once Falcon I launches become routine, the entire ground crew might just be a half dozen people.  TGV Rockets have nothing on SpaceX (TGV = Two Guys and a Van - http://www.nasaspaceflight.com/content/?id=3679 ).

The island weather forcast from the on-site RTS Weather Station as of several hours ago (Saturday evening local time):

TOMORROW
Sunday, November 27, 2005
Weather Forecast: Partly cloudy with a 20% chance of showers.
High: 87°F
Winds: NE-E at 14-20 knots with higher gusts near showers.

The wind seems a bit high.

Offline Justin Space

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #18 on: 11/26/2005 11:29 am »
The rain percentage is a lot better now but what's the limit with the wind?

Offline lmike

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #19 on: 11/26/2005 11:55 am »
Quote
Chris Bergin - 26/11/2005  5:56 AM

Quote
lmike - 26/11/2005  10:20 AM

Some new photos of the beast: http://www.spaceflightnow.com/falcon/f1/prelaunch.html  (sorry if it's been posted)  As an engineer, I just marvel at the PURE SIMPLICITY of their infrastructure... Check out their "erector truck" (and it traveled like that--the rocket on the truck, on a barge from the mainland!!!), and the "flame pit" really a deflection plate, a dozen people for the operations in the trailer with some PCs, all in all.  Granted for a half-a-tonne payload, but still WOW!  If NASA can strive to same standards from the beginnings I'll be happy.

Those haven't been posted before, but they're off the SpaceX website where there's a few more - including on of the "rocket on a truck" outside a building in a US city (which I forgot).

Elon's people basically drove their rocket into town! :)

Now one for you engineers out there. Do you feel this is the best low cost "does what it says on the tin" type of rocket? I keep hearing these doubts about the Merlin. Anything you would personally have done different with the mandate they plan for their family of rockets?

A regenerative nozzle cooling, instead of the ablative.  And I think they are considering that for the Merlin 2 (Falcon-5/9) In any case, my fingers are crossed for the flight...  This could be the breakthrough, all have been waiting for...

Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #20 on: 11/26/2005 12:12 pm »
Quote
Chris Bergin - 26/11/2005  6:56 AM

Those haven't been posted before, but they're off the SpaceX website where there's a few more - including on of the "rocket on a truck" outside a building in a US city (which I forgot).

Elon's people basically drove their rocket into town! :)

That picture of the rocket "in town" was taken in Washington DC in front of the Federal Aviation Administration headquarters last December.  They were facing some regulatory hurdles with the FAA, so took the issue to their doorstep, so to speak.
No one can say that SpaceX isn't good at creative problem solving... ;)

Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #21 on: 11/26/2005 12:22 pm »
Quote
lmike - 26/11/2005  10:20 AM

A regenerative nozzle cooling, instead of the ablative.  And I think they are considering that for the Merlin 2 (Falcon-5/9) In any case, my fingers are crossed for the flight...  This could be the breakthrough, all have been waiting for...

Last week Elon Musk called the decision to go with an ablative design "their single biggest mistake".  The Merlin 2 will indeed be a regenerative cooling design.

However, the Falcon-5 and 9 will use the existing Merlin-1, in configurations of between 5 and 27 engines!
Assuming they can be made reliable, of course...although Falcon-5 and 9 are designed for multiple engine failure redundancy.

The Merlin-2 is primarily for Elon's 100 ton-to-orbit ambitions, and will be of Saturn-V proportions.

Offline Terry Rocket

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #22 on: 11/26/2005 02:22 pm »
Quote
Justin Space - 26/11/2005  6:29 AM

The rain percentage is a lot better now but what's the limit with the wind?

It's a good question. The answer seems to be from what I can see as "Still go for a launch."

Offline Chris Bergin

Current Conditions
Temp: 83.5°F (28.6°C)
Humidity: 76%
Dew Point: 75.4°F (24.1°C)
Wind: ENE at 16 MPH
Sky: overcast
 

Needs to clear up....still not sure on the wind allowance for launch.
 
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Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #24 on: 11/26/2005 05:17 pm »
Okay, I got the weather limitations from SpaceX.

The weather limitations are:
No precipitation
Surface winds less than 22 knot gusts
No lightning potential within 10 miles

-braddock

Offline Rob in KC

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #25 on: 11/26/2005 05:21 pm »
Thanks.

Three hours to go before the opening of the window. Is it still a five hour window today?

Offline DaveS

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #26 on: 11/26/2005 05:25 pm »
Quote
Rob in KC - 26/11/2005  7:21 PM
 Is it still a five hour window today?
Four hour window. Opens at 21:00 GMT, closes at 01:00 GMT.
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Offline British NASA

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #27 on: 11/26/2005 06:25 pm »
100 minutes to go before the window :) I'm actually excited about this.

Offline newsartist

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #28 on: 11/26/2005 06:35 pm »
Wind seems to be between 14-17 right along, all week; (Trade Wind?), so I would assume they are happy with that, and don't expect higher unless a short squall develops.

I'm not sure what the Army is letting them use for cameras, so overcast, with no precip or lightning, may not take much away from them at all.

SpaceflightNow has a text feed on the launch, from the California Press Site, but it hasn't been updated in a while.

Offline Andy L

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #29 on: 11/26/2005 06:42 pm »
There's a live feed from Braddock on here. But better as we can talk about it at the same time.

Offline SimonShuttle

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #30 on: 11/26/2005 07:03 pm »
Good luck SpaceX. One hour to go.

Offline Chris Bergin


Current Conditions
Temp: 83.7°F (28.7°C)
Humidity: 74%
Dew Point: 74.8°F (23.8°C)
Wind: ENE at 17 MPH
Sky: overcast
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Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #32 on: 11/26/2005 07:36 pm »
Just an update.  I'm in on the SpaceX Press call now.  No news, the line hasn't really come to order yet.

Offline Chris Bergin

A bit of a farce at the moment, with noisey journalists at the press center drowing each other out. The phone line sounds like a washing machine and apparently MSNBC just shouted at people to press mute on their phone lines, it's that bad!
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Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #34 on: 11/26/2005 07:50 pm »
SpaceX Rep: "Everything looks great....everything looks like ti is coming together real well."

Offline DaveS

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #35 on: 11/26/2005 07:51 pm »
T-17 minutes and counting. I hope that SpaceX will begin to send out some updates soon!
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Offline Chris Bergin

15 mins to launch window opening and SpaceX are making their opening comments.
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Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #37 on: 11/26/2005 07:52 pm »
SpaceX: Launch attempt in just a few minutes.  Everything we have heard is that the window will open at 1pm.  We haven't heard anything about any delay.

Unfortunately, it doesn't sound like SpaceX or the rpess room in CA is getting a live feed right now.... :(

Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #38 on: 11/26/2005 07:53 pm »
Okay,. they are trying to patch us through to the audio from Kwajalain now.

Offline Grooble

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #39 on: 11/26/2005 07:53 pm »
Ah details at last.

Offline Flightstar

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #40 on: 11/26/2005 07:54 pm »
Godspeed Falcon I

Offline Chris Bergin

Launch attempt at the top of the hour - countdown proceeding to that target.
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Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #42 on: 11/26/2005 07:58 pm »
I think that the noisy room may actually be the audio feed from control in Kwajalein...they just seem to be focused on other things instead of updating California or us.  The SpaceX rep in CA (Larry Williams) apologized that there wasn't much interesting to hear yet...although it sounds like someone just got their video projector working.  :)

Offline bad_astra

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #43 on: 11/26/2005 07:59 pm »
I wish them the best of luck. This could be a monumental day.
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Offline Justin Space

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #44 on: 11/26/2005 08:00 pm »
A T- countdown would be great :)

Offline Grooble

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #45 on: 11/26/2005 08:01 pm »
If they are successful i will eat the breakfast pictured <- on their behalf.

Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #46 on: 11/26/2005 08:02 pm »
Continued pure chaos on the line here....

Offline Rocket Ronnie

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #47 on: 11/26/2005 08:03 pm »
Sky News UK just went with T-5 mins and counting....with a fault being worked.

Offline Tap-Sa

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #48 on: 11/26/2005 08:04 pm »
To which ever deities it may concern; please let this one go smoothly. Us humans could really use this break. Thanks in advance!

Offline Rocket Ronnie

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #49 on: 11/26/2005 08:04 pm »
And then lost the feed and went to an ad break! Argghhhh!

Offline AndyMc

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #50 on: 11/26/2005 08:06 pm »
Brace Yourselves, Here we go!..................

Offline Chris Bergin

T-2 mins and counting.
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Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #52 on: 11/26/2005 08:07 pm »
Williams(SpaceX): Less than t-2 minutues, exact time being checked on now.

Offline Chris Bergin

ONE HOUR DELAY.
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Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #54 on: 11/26/2005 08:08 pm »
Williams(SpaceX): Just received an e-mail from kwajalein taht they have a 1 hour delay.  Don't know the reason for the delay at this point.

They are now aiming for 2pm Pacific Coast time US.

Offline Chris Bergin

Launch hold comfirmed. One hour hold. More details to follow.
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Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #56 on: 11/26/2005 08:10 pm »
Just a note: Larry Williams from SpaceX, who is trying to keep us updated, is the SpaceX VP for International and Government Affairs.

Offline bad_astra

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #57 on: 11/26/2005 08:11 pm »
That close to T-0 it almost sounds like a scheduled hold. I'm really interested in their launch sequence with such a tiny crew. This is great.
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Offline Tap-Sa

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #58 on: 11/26/2005 08:11 pm »
The communication between SpaceX HQ and Kwajalein happens via email at a moment like this???  :o

Offline Chris Bergin

Nobody seems to know what the heck they are doing! No reason for the hold at this time.
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Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #60 on: 11/26/2005 08:16 pm »
SpaceX HQ is still trying to determine the nature of the delay.

Offline Chris Bergin

Ok, someone just finally asked what the delay was caused by. Answer "they are trying to find out". So we're pending a reason.

I do believe I heard someone in the background say Hold at T-10 mins - re-start to launch at the top of the hour. So we're 50 mins from launch attempt 2 at this time.
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Offline Launch Fan

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #62 on: 11/26/2005 08:19 pm »
Now this is more fun that George Diller on NASA TV yes?.......ok, maybe not ;)

Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #63 on: 11/26/2005 08:20 pm »
To get a sense of the chaos on this line, it seems to be switching between someone typing loudly, a dot matrix printer, an NPR radio station, and the chaos of the room in California... :)

Offline BarryKirk

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #64 on: 11/26/2005 08:24 pm »
Well, it's really getting the adrenaline going.

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #65 on: 11/26/2005 08:25 pm »
The SpaceX web site has also now announced the delay, but still no reason why.

Offline Chris Bergin

I'm pretty sure we are in a hold at T-10 - with a second attempt at 10pm UK (5pm EST).

They were saying they thought they got down to T-2m or 3m, so I don't think they held at a designated point.

We have no information on what the fault was - if it was a fault. Or if the weather took it off a green light.
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Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #67 on: 11/26/2005 08:26 pm »
Current conditions at the atoll are wind ENE at 20 MPH...wind has picked up.  Don't know if that's a reason.
http://www.rts-wx.com/

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #68 on: 11/26/2005 08:29 pm »
They mentioned once that if you could stand up straight, then the wind wasn't too strong to launch.

Offline newsartist

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #69 on: 11/26/2005 08:29 pm »
We can dream that they realized that the press connection was garbage, and they realized that 'go or blow' they look like a bunch of backyard bombers to a lot of writers.

Offline Chris Bergin

"Right now we're in a hold while the winds persist" - pretty sure I picked that up in the background.

(Trying FBI tactics here with the digital phone plugged through the midi system with the bass on zero) :)
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Offline Chris Bergin

Ok, so on the last information, we're 30 minutes from launch - holding at T-10m.

There have been no words out of a SpaceX person to confirm though.
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Offline Tap-Sa

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #72 on: 11/26/2005 08:40 pm »
SpaceX, what gives? Reporting from '60s N-1 launches in USSR was more lively than this...

Offline Grooble

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #73 on: 11/26/2005 08:41 pm »
Any update on the audio/video?

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #74 on: 11/26/2005 08:43 pm »
Quote
Tap-Sa - 26/11/2005  3:40 PM

SpaceX, what gives? Reporting from '60s N-1 launches in USSR was more lively than this...

Was that before or after they blew up? :)

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #75 on: 11/26/2005 08:43 pm »
I wish we had more information too.  SpaceX seems to have left the phone line (even though they have at least MSNBC and Reuters on the line here with us).

Offline Chris Bergin

Journalists now making jokes on the phone line about the obvious. Still there's some fool of a journalist typing away on his keyboard for all to hear. I don't know whether to laugh or cry at this attempt to feed the media with info.
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Offline Tap-Sa

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #77 on: 11/26/2005 08:47 pm »
Quote
Flightstar - 25/11/2005  11:43 PM
 
Was that before or after they blew up? :)

Both. Somebody send an U-2 to check what's going on at the atol :)

Offline Chris Bergin

Here we go! T-20 m. Tower about to lower. Confirmed.
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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #79 on: 11/26/2005 08:50 pm »
Larry Williams of SpaceX: "We now have T-20, and will soon be lowering the tower."

Offline BarryKirk

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #80 on: 11/26/2005 08:51 pm »
If the launch itself goes well and the sat reaches orbit safely... All of this will be forgiven and forgotten... Until the next time.

Offline Chris Bergin

T-18 mins and counting.
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Offline David AF

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #82 on: 11/26/2005 08:53 pm »
Weather is clear for the attempt. This looks like there's a launch coming!
F-22 Raptor instructor

Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #83 on: 11/26/2005 08:54 pm »
SpaceX: "There is apparently a 2:10 launch time.  Let me find Larry Williams and I will bring him over"

Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #84 on: 11/26/2005 08:58 pm »
SpaceX: "We should be getting some more audio updates shortly."

Offline Chris Bergin

T-10m holding, due to the Weather!! Could be a very short weather hold due to cloud.
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Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #86 on: 11/26/2005 08:59 pm »
Larry Williams of SpaceX: They went on hold due to the weather.  We are apparently at T-10.

Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #87 on: 11/26/2005 09:01 pm »
"Was the weather the cause of the first hold?"
Larry Williams of SpaceX: "We don't know.  I don't believe that was the case."

Offline Chris Bergin

So, we're holding at T-10m and now we don't know why.
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Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #89 on: 11/26/2005 09:03 pm »
Quote
braddock - 26/11/2005  5:01 PM

"Was the weather the cause of the first hold?"
Larry Williams of SpaceX: "We don't know.  I don't believe that was the case."

At least we can all rest assured that we are no less well informed than the SpaceX VP in California.. :)

Offline Tap-Sa

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #90 on: 11/26/2005 09:04 pm »
Quote
Chris Bergin - 26/11/2005  12:03 AM

So, we're holding at T-10m and now we don't know why.

Maybe this is a planned ten minute hold if the actual launch time is 2:10 whatevertime ?

Offline Chris Bergin

I think this was taken 30 mins ago. Wind ENE. Cloud could be a good reason - hard to tell when it's 30 mins ago.
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Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #92 on: 11/26/2005 09:07 pm »
"T-10 and holding"

Offline Chris Bergin

Confirmed: T-10m and holding. Hold is not built in, it's for some reason (cloud, or unconfirmed.)
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Offline Chris Bergin

Something about a LOX tank problem? Seems to be getting a few mentions.

Where's Diller when you need him! ;)
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Offline Chris Bergin

For what it's worth at this time:

Current Conditions
Temp: 84.4°F (29.1°C)
Humidity: 73%
Dew Point: 74.8°F (23.8°C)
Wind: ENE at 20 MPH
*******Sky: overcast*******
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Offline Chris Bergin

Re-fill of the LOX tank is in progress. T-10m and holding for weather...which they have now confirmed.
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Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #97 on: 11/26/2005 09:18 pm »
SpaceX: "They were refilling the liquid oxygen tanks last I heard"

Offline Avron

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #98 on: 11/26/2005 09:18 pm »
100 users online

Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #99 on: 11/26/2005 09:18 pm »
Chris, how do you beat me every time? :)

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #100 on: 11/26/2005 09:19 pm »
Quote
braddock - 26/11/2005  10:18 PM

Chris, how do you beat me every time? :)

I have a crack team of trained monkeys transcribing my every word ;)
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Offline DaveS

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #101 on: 11/26/2005 09:19 pm »
I'm starting to doubt that any launch is possible today. It seems like SpaceX really needs to polish their PR department.
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Offline Cretan126

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #102 on: 11/26/2005 09:24 pm »
Frankly, up to this point, I thought PR was one of their strengths (along with sugar-daddy Elon's stash of cash).

Offline bad_astra

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #103 on: 11/26/2005 09:25 pm »
first launch isn't a PR event. The self-congradulatory post-launch press conference, is.
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Offline BarryKirk

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #104 on: 11/26/2005 09:26 pm »
Well, remember that the press thing was difficult for NASA too.  In the early Mercury days, they didn't update the press fast enough and now they provide non-stop boredom.

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #105 on: 11/26/2005 09:31 pm »
Anyone on the phone listening to this, that's slowely losing the will to live, with the tap tap tap of that journalist in San Fran, and the "oooohhh, ewwwwww" of the slightly drunk and very annoying woman at the HQ?

T-10m and holding, but you know that already ;)

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Offline Chris Bergin

RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #106 on: 11/26/2005 09:37 pm »
"Countdown soon" pending.

T-10m and counting.
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Offline Shuttle Scapegoat

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #107 on: 11/26/2005 09:39 pm »
Might they run out of time to launch?

Offline Tap-Sa

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #108 on: 11/26/2005 09:40 pm »
Quote
Chris Bergin - 26/11/2005  12:37 AM

"Countdown soon" pending.

T-10m and counting.

Really counting?

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #109 on: 11/26/2005 09:40 pm »
Quote
Shuttle Scapegoat - 26/11/2005  10:39 PM

Might they run out of time to launch?

They are 90 minutes into a window of four hours.
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Offline Chris Bergin

RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #110 on: 11/26/2005 09:47 pm »
Another delay!

The need to re-fill the LOX tank again.

1 to 2 hour delay!
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Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #111 on: 11/26/2005 09:48 pm »
Larry Williams with SpaceX is back on the line.
Larry Williams of SpaceX: It sounds like we are going to have another delay.  They have to go back to the main island to refill the LOX tank.  [Are still going to try to launch in the launch window].  A minimum of 1-2 hour delay.

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #112 on: 11/26/2005 09:48 pm »
Boil off.
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Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #113 on: 11/26/2005 09:49 pm »
Larry Williams of SpaceX: We should have an announcement from the island from our CEO Elon Musk in a couple of minutes.

Offline DaveS

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #114 on: 11/26/2005 09:49 pm »
I wonder why they don't keep the LOX tank at a stable replenish mode like they do with Deltas and Shuttle ETs? Wouldn't that save alot of time?
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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #115 on: 11/26/2005 09:49 pm »
Elon about to make a statement in the next few minutes.
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Offline bad_astra

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #116 on: 11/26/2005 09:52 pm »
A 2 hour delay will end the window for today, I think.
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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #117 on: 11/26/2005 09:53 pm »
Looking at the map of the atoll, that sounds like a very strange logistical procedure!

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #118 on: 11/26/2005 09:59 pm »
If Musk has an announcement its almost a dead cert that the flight will be delayed for another day.

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #119 on: 11/26/2005 10:02 pm »
1:30 to 2hrs from now they will re-attempt the launch.
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Offline Chris Bergin

RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #120 on: 11/26/2005 10:02 pm »
1:30 to 2hrs from now they will re-attempt the launch.
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Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #121 on: 11/26/2005 10:02 pm »
Larry Williams of SpaceX: "We are still attempting to launch today.  We had someone go to the pad to make a manual adjustment to the LOX fill tank.  We hope to launch in an hour and a half to two hours from now."

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #122 on: 11/26/2005 10:05 pm »
Q: "How large a support control crew do you have, other than the government people, either there or at Kwajalein?"
Larry Williams of SpaceX:  "We have about 25 people on the island." ... [Q: Specifically for control of the launch?] "We have 6 people in our launch mission control center."

Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #123 on: 11/26/2005 10:06 pm »
We have been promised yet another update, and are waiting, complete with Muzak... :)

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #124 on: 11/26/2005 10:13 pm »
A manual "adjustment" of the fill tank on the pad? Frozen valve?

They are beginning to scare me.

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #125 on: 11/26/2005 10:14 pm »
Supermarket music too  :o

Still waiting for the update, but right now it is an attempt at 00:30am to 1am UK time (7:30pm to 8pm East coast time).
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Offline Orbiter Obvious

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #126 on: 11/26/2005 10:15 pm »
Quote
newsartist - 26/11/2005  5:13 PM

A manual "adjustment" of the fill tank on the pad? Frozen valve?

They are beginning to scare me.

Is that bad?

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #127 on: 11/26/2005 10:23 pm »
It sounds like they have started the re-fill of the LOX tank.
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Offline Chris Bergin

RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #128 on: 11/26/2005 10:24 pm »
"They appear to be working on the fill line that is connected to the Falcon I"
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Offline Chris Bergin

RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #129 on: 11/26/2005 10:28 pm »
Launch window may be extended - SpaceX
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Offline Chris Bergin

RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #130 on: 11/26/2005 10:30 pm »
1hr 15 mins from now is the earliest time they can attempt the launch.

"Problem with the pressure in the upper stage" - in works. That could delay the whole show if the fix is not carried out soon.

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Offline Chris Bergin

RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #131 on: 11/26/2005 10:31 pm »
Corrected himself, it's the loading tank that is having either a valve or pressure issues.
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Offline lmike

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #132 on: 11/26/2005 10:37 pm »
just wanted to say thanks for braving it for us, guys.  hmm, I'm starting to feel they'd be better off just updating their web site if they felt like it, instead of this strange conference call complete with getting put on hold with muzak to boot.  Anyway, as long as the rocket does its thing.  Go SpaceX

Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #133 on: 11/26/2005 10:39 pm »
People in the press room are commenting on the video feed as they watch the work underway on the LOX line.

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #134 on: 11/26/2005 10:43 pm »
Quote
braddock - 26/11/2005  5:05 PM

Q: "How large a support control crew do you have, other than the government people, either there or at Kwajalein?"
Larry Williams of SpaceX:  "We have about 25 people on the island." ... [Q: Specifically for control of the launch?] "We have 6 people in our launch mission control center."

That makes me sick :)

Offline lmike

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #135 on: 11/26/2005 10:43 pm »
Quote
Chris Bergin - 26/11/2005  5:31 PM

Corrected himself, it's the loading tank that is having either a valve or pressure issues.

... guess that'd explain the LOX thing.  and sounds like they have enough of it, the boiloff can be calculated in advance, but the storage tank has gone kaput, so they have to go to the main island to get more of it, or maybe I'm confused?  wasting an hour off the launch window "to get more lox" is not a good business practice with commercial customers.  anyways, this is also a learning experience for them ( I hope)

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #136 on: 11/26/2005 10:49 pm »
I think you've got it exactly right. It does seem they were having boil off (as you do) and when that call of an LOX problem came about - that's maybe when the value of the holding tank became an issue - replenish wasn't then met - launch hold.

Now they've got to get this other tank over there - while engineers get the feedline off the other tank and/or value, ready for the new tank.
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Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #137 on: 11/26/2005 10:58 pm »
I'm still holding the line here folks for new news, but there has been nothing but silence and hold music for quite some time.

Okay, apparently they are still seeing folks working on the line.  Best guess to launch in the press room is 5pm Pacific time (1am UK I believe), in about an hour.

Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #138 on: 11/26/2005 11:02 pm »
SpaceX: They have extended the launch window, and still hope to be good to go today.  "But, obviously, we'll have to wait and see."


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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #139 on: 11/26/2005 11:11 pm »
The launch window has been extended two hours, from the original 5 to 7pm Pacific Coast time (3am UTC/UK time).

SpaceX has cut the conference line temporarily (mostly to get rid of the hold music), and we are supposed to dial back in in one half hour.

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #140 on: 11/26/2005 11:24 pm »
Better get the pipe and slippers out then. Looks like we're in for a long night ;)

So, to sum up. We're looking at a launch attempt at 1am UK (8pm East Coast) - which of course is, as Wayne Hale would say a NET time.

Next update will be when they phone lines are back up for the second leg, in about 15-20 mins from now. (30 minutes past the hour).
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Offline newsartist

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #141 on: 11/26/2005 11:25 pm »
Braddock? Can you or anybody see video of the 'work on the line?"

My best GUESS, entirely from the confused reports, at what is going on....

There wasn't a LOX shortage: there was a feed problem between the tank and the bird. Water-ice from tropical condensation in a line or valve that wasn't purged? The trip to "the main island" might mean from the control center to the pad, to troubleshoot, not bring more LOX?

Offline Grooble

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #142 on: 11/26/2005 11:26 pm »
I'm gonna run out of milk..

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #143 on: 11/26/2005 11:30 pm »
Quote
newsartist - 27/11/2005  12:25 AM

Braddock? Can you or anybody see video of the 'work on the line?"


I thought he made it totally clear he's on the phone line.
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Offline Grooble

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #144 on: 11/26/2005 11:33 pm »
How is the weather?

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #145 on: 11/26/2005 11:37 pm »
Not too great on the latest image:

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Offline SimonShuttle

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #146 on: 11/26/2005 11:39 pm »
Well this is a laugh a minute from the SpaceX people. When the next attempt if they can't do it within the window they are working with>

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #147 on: 11/26/2005 11:40 pm »
Quote
SimonShuttle - 27/11/2005  12:39 AM

Well this is a laugh a minute from the SpaceX people. When the next attempt if they can't do it within the window they are working with>

We'll do it all again tomorrow. Same start to the window of 9pm UK.
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Offline lmike

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #148 on: 11/26/2005 11:40 pm »
just in... (via hobbyspace.com)  someone's bloggin http://kwajrockets.blogspot.com/  "...There is no turning back now. "  here we go

Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #149 on: 11/26/2005 11:40 pm »
Okay, I'm back online.  The conference line hasn't started up again yet.

Looks like the wind picked up a few MPH (it's at 20mph).  SpaceX says launch limit is gusts to 22 knots ( I don't know how gusty it is).


Offline Chris Bergin

RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #150 on: 11/26/2005 11:42 pm »
I'll see if we can confirm....but they haven't even restarted the media event.
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Offline lmike

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #151 on: 11/26/2005 11:43 pm »
... the steely-eyed missile men... (Bad link - enter a working URL)

*sorry, the link seemed to work, anyway, there's a photo of the (rather relaxed) control room on the spacex (?) blogger's page.

Offline DaveS

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #152 on: 11/26/2005 11:49 pm »
According to Spaceflightnow.com, the LOX problem has been fixed and launch is scheduled for 7:50 pm EST.
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Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #153 on: 11/26/2005 11:49 pm »
They finally restarted the call.   SpaceX HQ expects a good chance for a launch in approximately 20 minutes.

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #154 on: 11/26/2005 11:50 pm »
SpaceX say it'll be about another 20 minutes yet but are yet to confirm. It won't be 7:50 Eastern. It'll be 8pm Eastern.
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Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #155 on: 11/26/2005 11:51 pm »
Our Kwajalein blogger is reporting that they are on hold at T-10 minutes to "refill Helium tanks and other procedures."
http://kwajrockets.blogspot.com/

Offline DaveS

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #156 on: 11/26/2005 11:52 pm »
Saw that now.
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Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #157 on: 11/26/2005 11:56 pm »
According to our blogger, the first hold was due to a slower-than-expected helium pump, used for fuel tank pressurization.

The second hold was due to a LOX value failing to close.


Offline Chris Bergin

RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #158 on: 11/26/2005 11:59 pm »
LAUNCH SCRUB FOR THE DAY.
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Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #159 on: 11/27/2005 12:00 am »
SpaceX: Just got an update, we are scrubbing for today.  Our next launch window is 9am tomorrow morning.  Stand by for a minute and I'll try to get more of an update.

Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #160 on: 11/27/2005 12:01 am »
Our blogger has a different story:
"Another anomoly appeared during the T-Minus 10 minute hold. The rocket computer rebooted and there is not enough LOX to analyze the problem.

That really sucks.

Next launch date is January based on current LOX delivery estimates."

Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #161 on: 11/27/2005 12:02 am »
Larry Williams of SpaceX: "we have not gotten confirmation on what the plan is for tomorrow.  If you can keep an eye on our web site, we will post information on our web site, and tell you what our next launch date is."

Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #162 on: 11/27/2005 12:05 am »
The conference was just ended.

Offline Chris Bergin

RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #163 on: 11/27/2005 12:09 am »
Well that was eventful.

Thanks to all on this thread, and let's see if they can try again next year :(
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Offline AndyMc

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #164 on: 11/27/2005 12:17 am »
Many thanks to yourself Chris, and braddock for keeping us informed. Much appreciated :)

Offline DaveS

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #165 on: 11/27/2005 12:21 am »
Yes many thanks to Chris and braddock for the updates! Let's hope for better luck next time!
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Offline James Lowe1

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #166 on: 11/27/2005 12:22 am »
That was eventful wasn't it! Well that shows how it is with rockets. They aren't simple.

Great work by Braddock. And also Chris - who you won't know has worked through to what is now the early hours of his birthday.

Offline kcowing

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #167 on: 11/27/2005 12:29 am »
The January blog entry is incorrect. According to SpaceX, the next launch date will be at least a week, but could be mid-December.

Offline Launch Fan

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #168 on: 11/27/2005 12:39 am »
Drama, surreal, hopes, confusion, hope, then an anti-climax. Rocket Science is anything but boring!

Offline Flightstar

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #169 on: 11/27/2005 12:44 am »
Quote
kcowing - 26/11/2005  7:29 PM

The January blog entry is incorrect. According to SpaceX, the next launch date will be at least a week, but could be mid-December.

That's an important find. Thank you.

I was otherwise begining to wonder about their contingency plans.

Happy Birthday to Chris. How old now?

Offline Orbiter Obvious

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #170 on: 11/27/2005 12:48 am »
Why is there such a long delay, even to the middle of Dec?

Offline James Lowe1

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #171 on: 11/27/2005 12:52 am »
Quote
Orbiter Obvious - 26/11/2005  7:48 PM

Why is there such a long delay, even to the middle of Dec?

Because they need to ship in more LOX from the U.S. It's a several thousand mile trip.

And Flight, Chris is 34 now, he said when he was moaning to me about it on MSN, while telling me not to mention it on site ;)

Offline kcowing

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #172 on: 11/27/2005 02:47 am »
The SpaceX launch is scrubbed for today. As I warned, the likelihood of an all new rocket launching from an all new launch pad on its first attempt is low.
 
The reason for the delay was an auxiliary liquid oxygen (LOX) fill tank had a manual vent valve incorrectly set to vent. The time it took to correct the problem resulted in significant LOX boiloff and loss of helium, and it was the latter that caused the launch abort. LOX is used to chill the helium bottles, so we lose helium if there is no LOX to cool the bottles.
 
Although we were eventually able to refill the vehicle LOX tanks, the rate at which we could add helium was slower than the rate at which LOX was boiling away. There was no way to close the gap, so the launch had to be called off. In addition, we experienced an anomaly with the main engine computer that requires further investigation and was arguably reason in and of itself to postpone launch.
 
We are anticipating rescheduling the launch within a week at the earliest but probably longer as we need to bring in LOX and helium from Hawaii. Our LOX plant on Omelek will not replenish our supply in time.
 
- Elon Musk

Offline David AF

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #173 on: 11/27/2005 03:19 am »
Quote
kcowing - 26/11/2005  9:47 PM
 
The reason for the delay was an auxiliary liquid oxygen (LOX) fill tank had a manual vent valve incorrectly set to vent.

- Elon Musk

Seeing the word manual suggests this was a proceedure error by one of the SpaceX engineers?
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Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #174 on: 11/27/2005 08:21 am »
Quote
David AF - 26/11/2005  11:19 PM

Seeing the word manual suggests this was a proceedure error by one of the SpaceX engineers?

Kinda impossible to know, but from the blog of Elon Musk's brother, it sounds like the Army procedures didn't help at all.  Apparently they were forced to wait for over an hour for permission from the range to go back to the launch site island while most of their LOX boiled out the open valve at a rate of 500 gallons per hour.  The Army required some form of procedure writeup that they had to write on the spot and then wait for approval.  It must have been infuriating.

The blog of Elon's brother, who is on the island with the team, really proved to be the best source of information on the launch, and makes SpaceX look good (especially compared with the utter confusion of SpaceX HQ on the conference call).  It also has some very interesting background on the atoll.

http://kwajrockets.blogspot.com/2005_11_01_kwajrockets_archive.html

Offline lmike

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #175 on: 11/27/2005 08:33 am »
Well, it's a let down in a way, but the learning they are getting is priceless.  I'm still awed by the fact that there are just 6 people in that control trailer doing the launch.  They also seem to be having fun as they do this rather serious rocket business (judging by the blog), and are being inventive.  Enthusiasm counts for a lot to me.  Must be a great place to work.  And thanks for the reporting guys!

Offline Terry Rocket

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #176 on: 11/27/2005 12:54 pm »
Must be fun being rich, but they need to get it right eventually cause theres other private companies looking to do this and need positive investors to back them.

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #177 on: 11/27/2005 04:26 pm »
Quote
Terry Rocket - 27/11/2005  8:54 AM

Must be fun being rich, but they need to get it right eventually cause theres other private companies looking to do this and need positive investors to back them.

SpaceX needs investors and is depending on a successful Falcon 1 program to attract the funds needed to develop the Falcon 9. Musk is wealthy, but he's nowhere near being in the same class with people like Paul Allen.

John B. Dobbins

Offline braddock

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #178 on: 11/28/2005 12:35 pm »
Elon Musk is estimated to _have_ been worth about $250 - 350 million when he sold PayPal.  He's now spent about $100 million of that on SpaceX.  That's a pretty substantial chunk of his net worth to spend on a brave gamble.  He won't starve, but obviously this is more than a toy to him.  

Everything Musk says indicates that he believes in doing this in the hopes that this will make us a true space-faring species.  Cut-rate prices can only make money in volume, and the launch market really doesn't seem to be there to support this.  If he makes $1 million net off of his $6.7 million Falcon I flights, he's going to need an awful lot of customers to get rich in this business.  Especially since a lot of people with much deeper pockets will come out of the woodwork to compete if he can induce a real market.  

He should just call it the SpaceX Foundation and at least get the tax deduction.  But I'm very glad he's doing it.

Offline lmike

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #179 on: 11/28/2005 02:19 pm »
Brad (if I may) is absolutely right, IMHO.  There are billionares spending money on "God knows what", but Mr. Musk is "into it" and is not afraid to bet his fortune on it.  This counts for a lot in terms of the investors' anticipations.  It takes a 'kick-starter' to spin the machine.   Speaking from my Silicon Valley experience... The venture capital will follow...  I hope...

Offline Flightstar

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RE: SpaceX Falcon 1 Live update thread (Nov. 26 attempt)
« Reply #180 on: 11/30/2005 06:46 pm »
Won't be back to a possible launch until at least Dec. 18

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