Can I ask why this needs such a powerful launcher, according to the link below it's going to use the 551 configuration of the Atlas V.http://solarprobe.jhuapl.edu/mission/status.php
Quote from: Star One on 09/29/2013 08:15 pmCan I ask why this needs such a powerful launcher, according to the link below it's going to use the 551 configuration of the Atlas V.http://solarprobe.jhuapl.edu/mission/status.phpThe orbit requires it - to get close to the sun, you need to remove as much of the 30 km/s the earth moves. So, big launcher, light payload.
Seven.
Quote from: GClark on 09/30/2013 10:46 amSeven.Thanks. I believe at one point they were talking about using a Jupiter gravity assist but changed that to Venus.
NASA is beginning the process of procuring a launch vehicle for solar probe plus: https://www.fbo.gov/?s=opportunity&mode=form&id=3060e9441252d36ffceae289a1fef314&tab=core&_cview=0 . The mass is 685 kg and the C3 is 154 km^2/s^2. I believe this is beyond what Falcon 9 can handle, even with a kick stage. The solicitation requires "at least one successful flight of the common launch vehicle configuration...prior to the proposal due date, which is anticipated to be September 2014," and Falcon Heavy isn't expected to launch until 2015, so it looks like SpaceX will not be eligible to bid. Presumably an Atlas will win.
It wouldn't be an Atlas because such a solicitation is not needed to buy an Atlas. Atlas is already on the NLS II contract.
IMNSHO this represents Due Diligence.This mission has been baselined for an Atlas V 551 w/Star 48BV since the 2008 redesign. NASA is doing this solicitation so they can show anyone who may happen to question their launcher selection "See, we asked."Just my (admittedly somewhat sarcastic) .02...
Not required, if that were the case. NASA doesn't have do such a thing if a launch vehicle on the NLS II meets the requirements.
There is engineering required and legally required. This falls into the later.