NASASpaceFlight.com Forum
Commercial and US Government Launch Vehicles => Rocket Lab => Topic started by: Chris Bergin on 01/22/2019 08:47 pm
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Presser:
Rocket Lab to launch dedicated Electron mission for DARPA
The mission intends to space-qualify a new membrane reflect-array antenna and highlights the Electron rocket’s suitability as a responsive, flexible and rapidly-acquired launch service for commercial and government missions alike
Huntington Beach, California. January 22, 2019 – Small satellite launch company Rocket Lab announced today that its first mission of 2019 will be a dedicated launch of a 150kg satellite for the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). The mission highlights US Government demand for the type of responsive, ultra-flexible and rapidly acquired launch service that characterizes the Rocket Lab launch experience on Electron.
DARPA’s Radio Frequency Risk Reduction Deployment Demonstration (R3D2) mission is scheduled for launch in late February and intends to space-qualify a prototype reflect array antenna to improve radio communications in small spacecraft. The antenna, made of a tissue-thin Kapton membrane, packs tightly inside the small satellite for stowage during launch, before deploying to its full size of 2.25 meters in diameter once it reaches low Earth orbit. This high compaction ratio enables larger antennas in smaller satellites, enabling satellite owners to take advantage of volume-limited launch opportunities while still providing significant capability. The mission could help validate emerging concepts for a resilient sensor and data transport layer in low Earth orbit – a capability that does not exist today, but one which could revolutionize global communications by laying the groundwork for a space-based internet.
“Rapid acquisition of small satellite launch capabilities is increasingly important to US Government organizations like DARPA. The ability to rapidly space-qualify new technology and deploy space-based assets with confidence on short notice is a service that didn’t exist for dedicated small satellites until now,” says Rocket Lab founder and CEO Peter Beck. “We’re honored to provide Electron’s agile and flexible launch service to DARPA and we look forward to delivering the innovative R3D2 payload to orbit.”
The mission, the first of monthly Electron launches this year, will lift-off from Rocket Lab Launch Complex 1 on the Māhia Peninsula of New Zealand. To ensure precise insertion and responsible orbital deployment, the R3D2 payload will be deployed via the Electron Kick Stage to a circular orbit. Using this unique launch method, Electron’s second stage is left in a highly elliptical orbit where the stage is subject to significant atmospheric drag, causing it to de-orbit and burn up to nothing in a reduced time frame. The Kick Stage is then used to deploy the satellite payload to a precise orbit, following which the Kick Stage can perform a de-orbit burn to speed up its re-entry, leaving no orbital debris behind in space.
The Rocket Lab Electron launch experience is the world’s first customized small satellite launch service. With the choice of two Rocket Lab launch sites, and the ability to rapidly launch to orbit as frequently as every 72 hours, each mission is tailored to the customer requirements. For the first time, small satellite customers are enjoying unmatched flexibility, responsiveness and control over their own orbit.
ENDS
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https://twitter.com/RocketLab/status/1087829328610525184
https://twitter.com/DARPA/status/1087830155060543490
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That mission patch is on point.
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So mission name seems to be "DARPA R3D2" this time.
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Someone want to start predicting this new trajectory and orbit inclination et Cetera.
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https://twitter.com/peter_j_beck/status/1095576198338338816
Just popped down to the launch site today in preparation for wet dress roll out tomorrow. #LaunchSiteParadise
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https://twitter.com/rocketlab/status/1095801936341651456
They see us rollin'....😎
Roll out operations are underway at LC-1 in prep for our next launch. Today's a busy day for the pad team who will assess vehicle and ground systems, plus take Electron vertical for checkouts.
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https://twitter.com/peter_j_beck/status/1095920253937152004
Electron is on the pad. It’s going to be a busy year!
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https://twitter.com/Peter_J_Beck/status/1097366320801210371
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The previous launches' WDR took place 4 days before the first launch attempt, not sure why they haven't given us a NET date for this one.
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In the images above, the fairing is on the Electron for the WDR
Are the payloads encapsulated during this test and any subsequent hot fire?
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In the images above, the fairing is on the Electron for the WDR
Are the payloads encapsulated during this test and any subsequent hot fire?
I don't think we've ever heard the answer to that question- the best solution might just be to tweet at Peter Beck and ask at some point... I would however guess that (for now) they're doing something similar to SpaceX and not have a payload in the fairing as a way of preventing any sort of AMOS type situation... tho I could be wrong.
I will say I am also surprised that we don't even have a NET date given the success they've apparently had during this launch campaign...
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In the images above, the fairing is on the Electron for the WDR
Are the payloads encapsulated during this test and any subsequent hot fire?
I don't think we've ever heard the answer to that question- the best solution might just be to tweet at Peter Beck and ask at some point... I would however guess that (for now) they're doing something similar to SpaceX and not have a payload in the fairing as a way of preventing any sort of AMOS type situation... tho I could be wrong.
I will say I am also surprised that we don't even have a NET date given the success they've apparently had during this launch campaign...
DARPA payload and its experimental mision is reason for vague target date.
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DARPA payload and its experimental mision is reason for vague target date.
The fact they don't have the launch licence yet can't help either.
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DARPA payload and its experimental mision is reason for vague target date.
The fact they don't have the launch licence yet can't help either.
Think they don't need the FAA license for launching a payload for the USAF.
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https://twitter.com/Peter_J_Beck/status/1097366320801210371
So what happened in the meantime? Any news?
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https://twitter.com/Peter_J_Beck/status/1097366320801210371
So what happened in the meantime? Any news?
Per: https://www.rocketlabusa.com/launch-info/launch-complex-1/
LAUNCH INFORMATION
Rocket Lab's next launch is the DARPA R3D2 mission. The mission will lift-off from Launch Complex 1 carrying a prototype reflect array antenna designed to improve radio communications in small spacecraft.
The launch window is yet to be announced.
I emailed the project lead and they for this particular mission cannot confirm a change in the launch date at this time.
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New window will be known in the next few days, per Rocket Lab (asked them).
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Any update on when this bad boy is going to launch?
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Any update on when this bad boy is going to launch?
Peter does not answer.
https://twitter.com/Jrcraft_youtube/status/1102298350148186113
https://twitter.com/mahargbe/status/1102304601695346688
https://twitter.com/DJBInfante/status/1102301088647045121
https://twitter.com/LeJules_/status/1102312372562259970
https://twitter.com/Jack19267067/status/1102310055360118785
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I'm afraid the lack of response from RocketLab on launch dates is typical of new space. They are obviously having problems but are afraid of admitting this because they think it makes them look bad. Therefore, they keep silent in the hope that no one notices!
https://www.teepublic.com/t-shirt/1616002-vintage-ostrich-head-in-sand
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Or their customers aren’t ready to launch, and they have enough class to not call out (expose) their clients.
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Or their customers aren’t ready to launch, and they have enough class to not call out (expose) their clients.
If DARPA payload is having problems thought they would of moved to next mission.
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Unless, as we just saw with SpaceX, NASA and the DM-1 mission, DARPA has priority as part of the agreement to fly, then unless the delay is significant, like months, they need to keep the launch site reserved for this launch.
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Be patient, they will let us know when they are ready for launch.
They are still a very young company and new to orbital launches, i am sure they are learning lots about their vehicle and launch pad and that data takes time to process.
Just remember how long it took other new space companies to really be in a position to start increasing their flight rate.
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https://twitter.com/darpa/status/1103348053694734336
The RF Risk Reduction Deployment Demonstration (R3D2) made it to New Zealand this week. Payload integration has begun for its ride into low-Earth orbit on @RocketLab Electron, targeted for later this month.
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https://twitter.com/rocketlab/status/1103367553659748352
Following a delay to payload arrival, the R3D2 spacecraft is now at LC-1 & integration is underway! The launch window has been adjusted to the second half of March to provide the prime contractor with additional time to complete payload and spacecraft validation & verification.
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Rocket Lab Presser!
Rocket Lab designates launch window for DARPA R3D2 mission
Huntington Beach, California – March 6, 2019: US small satellite launch company Rocket Lab has designated a 14-day window for the next Electron launch, the RF Risk Reduction Deployment Demonstration (R3D2) mission for DARPA. The window will be open from 17 - 30 March 2019, NZDT. Within the window, lift-off will be scheduled between 11:30 and 15:30 NZDT (22:30 – 02:30 UTC).
Rocket Lab’s Senior Vice President of Global Launch Services, Lars Hoffman, says the DARPA R3D2 mission highlights Electron’s critical role in enabling small satellite innovation by delivering responsive and tailored launch services to rapidly space-qualify new technologies.
“Small satellite technology is evolving at break-neck pace, and the DARPA R3D2 mission is a prime example of the significant capabilities small satellites can deliver now that frequent and reliable access to space is a reality on Electron,” he says. “Our team has racked up three orbital missions and deployed 24 satellites already, but the R3D2 mission is particularly exciting. It marks the first dedicated Rocket Lab mission carrying a single satellite that maximizes Electron’s nominal lift capability of 150kg.”
Live video coverage of the launch will be available on Rocket Lab’s website at www.rocketalbusa/live-stream. For real-time updates on launch day, follow Rocket Lab on Twitter @RocketLab
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The window opens on 16 March UTC! Thread title update?
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DARPA payload and its experimental mision is reason for vague target date.
The fact they don't have the launch licence yet can't help either.
Think they don't need the FAA license for launching a payload for the USAF.
FAA today published the license LLS 17-095 (https://www.faa.gov/about/office_org/headquarters_offices/ast/licenses_permits/media/LLS%2017-095%20License%20Mod%20-%20Order%20A%20-%20Rev%203%20-%20Rocket%20Lab%20USA%20-%20License%20and%20Orders%20(FINAL%202018-12-11).pdf) (Rev. 3), issued Dec 11, 2018, expires Dec 31, 2019
Rev 2 was for "test launches".
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Looking at the pictures they Tweeted--did they encapsulate the payload at the customer site in the US?
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Looking at the pictures they Tweeted--did they encapsulate the payload at the customer site in the US?
LC-1 is a New Zealand Site.
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Looking at the pictures they Tweeted--did they encapsulate the payload at the customer site in the US?
LC-1 is a New Zealand Site.
I think Ragmar's question is:
Did they encapsulate the payload at the customer site in the USA, and then ship it ENCAPSULATED to NZ, LC-1?
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Press Kit! Payload mass is 150 kg and orbit is 425 km at 39.5°.
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"WASHINGTON — Rocket Lab's first launch of the year, which was scheduled for late February, has been pushed back to the second half of March because of the delayed arrival of its payload, an experimental military satellite."
https://twitter.com/DARPA/status/1103348053694734336
looks like the usual red tape excuses for Darpa delivery delays..
A lot like when you are late with an assignment but you know you need it to look like you turned it in on time.
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https://twitter.com/RocketLab/status/1106351364475486209
Delayed to NET late next week.
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https://twitter.com/northropgrumman/status/1106676564266242048
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Set for Sunday!
https://twitter.com/RocketLab/status/1108929530125680640
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24 hours to launch!
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Rocket Lab
Verified account @RocketLab
46 minutes ago
We are at L-1 day for the @DARPA #R3D2 mission on Electron! Weather is tracking green and we're currently targeting no earlier than 22:30 UTC tomorrow (11:30 NZDT) for lift-off.
twitter.com/RocketLab/status/1109633560195915776
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ARTICLE: Rocket Lab to begin monthly launches with dedicated DARPA mission -
https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2019/03/rocket-lab-dedicated-darpa-mission/
- By Thomas Burghardt
https://twitter.com/NASASpaceflight/status/1109859006267428865
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https://twitter.com/RocketLab/status/1109864903437762560 (https://twitter.com/RocketLab/status/1109864903437762560)
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https://twitter.com/Saul10203/status/1109624779584098305 (https://twitter.com/Saul10203/status/1109624779584098305)
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NET 23:36 UTC
https://twitter.com/RocketLab/status/1109889221509017600
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Sunrise shot of Electron vertical from Peter Beck.
https://twitter.com/Peter_J_Beck/status/1109894415055642624
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Electron LOX load has started!
https://twitter.com/RocketLab/status/1109926182823170050
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Rocket-Lab-press-kit-DARPA-R3D2
https://www.rocketlabusa.com/assets/Uploads/Rocket-Lab-press-kit-DARPA-R3D2.pdf
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Link to livestream.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tbcc5SmUu-Q
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Rocket Lab
Verified account @RocketLab
1 minute ago
Blue skies over Launch Complex 1 today. Weather is green for launch! ☀️The webcast for today's mission will be live in approx 60 minutes. Lift-off is targeted for 23:36 UTC.
twitter.com/RocketLab/status/1109942172759949312
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It's a beautiful, calm day for a launch down there - about 22 degrees Celcius! :)
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Scrub!
Rocket Lab
Verified account @RocketLab
12 seconds ago
The team has identified a video transmitter 13dB down with low performance. It's not an issue for flight, but we want to understand why, so we're waiving off for the day. We'll assess and advise a new target lift-off time soon.
twitter.com/RocketLab/status/1109957631299538945
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As Steven notes, in tweet form:
https://twitter.com/RocketLab/status/1109957631299538945
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Weather tomorrow looks to be about the same as today's:
https://www.metservice.com/rural/hawkes-bay#!/mahia
However the weather seems to start going downhill Wednesday night into Thursday. Here's to hoping for a quick issue resolve and it doesn't turn into something that takes a while to figure out.
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Rocket Lab
Verified account @RocketLab
5 minutes ago
Launch update: The team is going to take tomorrow to replace the video transmitter, then we'll be back on the pad to launch @DARPA’s R3D2 satellite. Rocket Lab is currently targeting no earlier than 22:30, Tuesday 26 March UTC for launch.
twitter.com/RocketLab/status/1110001051208429568
Rocket Lab
Verified account @RocketLab
5 minutes ago
No video transmitter = no launch webcast, and we all love a good show!
twitter.com/RocketLab/status/1110001249804414976
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Launch has been pushed back another 24 hours due to high winds.
https://twitter.com/RocketLab/status/1110348953986297856
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And yet another 24 hours:
https://twitter.com/RocketLab/status/1110638209770254336
A weather & COLA window (space traffic) briefing has been completed for the @DARPA R3D2 launch from LC-1. With limited COLA windows and a high chance (45%) of violating weather criteria tomorrow, launch is now planned for no earlier than 22:30 UTC, 28 March.
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There's a high pressure system moving into the area over the next couple of days, so, fingers-crossed, they should be good to go this time.. before it gets nasty again early next week.
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https://twitter.com/RocketLab/status/1111342200804143104
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Timelapse sunrise:
https://twitter.com/RocketLab/status/1111352502828433408
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Link to livestream.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OaUSf0D95vs
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LOX load has started!
https://mobile.twitter.com/RocketLab/status/1111378916885749760
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Rocket Lab
Verified account @RocketLab
3 minutes ago
We are at T-60 minutes for the @DARPA #R3D2 mission on Electron! Launch webcast will go live approx. 15 mins before target lift-off
twitter.com/RocketLab/status/1111394440222900224
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Peter Beck
@Peter_J_Beck
4 minutes ago
T-50 mins
twitter.com/Peter_J_Beck/status/1111396808201109504
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Webcast should be starting soon.
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Link to livestream.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OaUSf0D95vs (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OaUSf0D95vs)
The webcast is now live
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Webcast has begun.
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T-10 minutes. Go has been given for launch.
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T-8 minutes. Showing DARPA video.
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T-7 minutes. Ending webcast after separation of kickstage.
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T-6 minutes. Building one Electron every 30 days.
FTS on internal power.
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T-5 minutes. Range is green. Autosequence is on.
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T-4 minutes. Heater fans are off. Vehicle is ready for flight.
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T-3 minutes. Go for autosequence start.
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T-2 minutes. Vehicle is on internal power.
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T-1 minutes. Stage 1 and 2 are pressed.
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Liftoff!
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LAUNCH!
https://twitter.com/NASASpaceflight/status/1111409760593543168
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T+1 minute.
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T+2 minutes.
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Good staging.
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First stage spearation.
T+3 minutes.
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Fairing separation.
T+4 minutes.
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T+5 minutes. Beginning throttle down.
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Slight attitude oscillation on the upper stage. Was it this significant on previous flights?
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T+6 minutes.
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Hotswap.
T+7 minutes.
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T+8 minutes.
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Cutoff.
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Was that the kick stage that just went by in the view from the nozzle camera?
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Some cool video clips from Micheal Baylor:
https://twitter.com/nextspaceflight/status/1111409790687678464
https://twitter.com/nextspaceflight/status/1111410413495681024
https://twitter.com/nextspaceflight/status/1111411475208269824
https://twitter.com/nextspaceflight/status/1111412011441618944
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Kickstage separation .
Animation of satellite separation to occur in about 40 minutes.
Webcast has ended.
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Was that the kick stage that just went by in the view from the nozzle camera?
I believe that was the Moon. A clear crescent
VERY nice launch
Good views of the first stage, fairing halves, and batteries falling away.
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Was that the kick stage that just went by in the view from the nozzle camera?
I think that's the Moon.
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There was lot more pitch roll during 3rd stage separation than I remember from previous missions.
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Upcoming events. At the end of the webcast they said the next launch is in April.
+00:49:52 Kick Stage ignites
+00:51:45 Curie engine powering Kick Stage cuts off
+00:53:15 Payload separates from launch vehicle
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The burn should have completed by now.
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Separation should have occurred. Standing by for confirmation from Rocketlab.
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https://twitter.com/Peter_J_Beck/status/1111425984828313601
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Success! Congratulations to Rocketlab and DARPA for the successful launch!
Rocket Lab
Verified account @RocketLab
59 seconds ago
Payload deployed. Precise orbital insertion by Electron's Kick Stage. Mission Success!
twitter.com/RocketLab/status/1111427291857379329
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Congratulations to Rocket Lab and DARPA. I hope the experimental satellite works. It looks like an interesting mission. I can even envision that this antenna technology might be adapted for space telescopes.
I've noticed on this and previous launches that Electron seems to wobble a bit on its way up to orbit. Is that because it's so small and light?
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25.
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Updated link to today's launch
DARPA R3D2 Launch - 03/28/2019
Published on Mar 28, 2019
Lift-off of the R3D2 mission for DARPA occurred at 23:27 UTC on March 28, 2019, from New Zealand's Mahia Peninsula
https://youtu.be/TGhlWMJtDEI?t=001
https://youtu.be/TGhlWMJtDEI
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https://twitter.com/planet4589/status/1111465456764968961
Successful Electron launch confirmed with three objects tracked in orbit: 16A (presumed R3D2) in 421 x 438 km x 39.5 deg orbit; 16B (presumed kick stage) in 417 x 438 km x 39.5 deg; 16C (Electron 2nd stage) in 199 x 434 km x 39.5 deg orbit.
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https://twitter.com/rocketlab/status/1111444518308470785
Electron's nine Rutherford engines roaring off the pad today. Credit for this beautiful shot goes to our launch team members @VonBraunnabe and @samstoms. #GoElectron!
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This article revealed the R3D2 payload on 20 November 2018! The article says that DARPA paid $6.5M for this launch.
https://thespinoff.co.nz/business/20-11-2018/what-lies-inside-rocket-labs-secret-us-military-contracts/
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https://spacenews.com/northrop-grumman-highlights-benefits-of-orbital-atk-acquisition/
While not a formal confirmation this mission is a success, follow extract suggests the antenna deployment has been successful.
DARPA has said little about R3D2 after its launch, but Warden’s comments suggested the mission was going well. “This successful demonstration will lend support to developing additional smaller, faster to launch and lower cost capabilities that can optimize the new commercial market for small, inexpensive launch vehicles by both the DOD and commercial users,” she said. “We’re extremely proud of this effort and I want to congratulate the entire team on its success.”