OT: ARES 1-X Test Launch this coming Tuesday... KSC

[SKYLANE]

For you space and aviation fans... a new rocket is lifting out of KSC on Tuesday morning, provided no slips in schedule.

Primarily testing the first stage solid rocket booster, the payload above is dummy. Should be fun to watch.

Launch 12 Noon UTC, I believe that is 8am EST, Oct 27

Google Constellation Program, Ares I & Ares V for additional info.

[Paul F.]

Should be interesting!

I'm skeptical of the revised version of the Ares 1 (does half what was planned, at twice the cost, with dubious performance predictions), but any new rocket is a good rocket!

At the very least, it may make the Falcon 9 from SpaceX look good if IT doesn't have a RUD on it's maiden flight*.











* RUD= Rapid Unscheduled Dissassembly

[Racer X]

UED.

Unplanned
Energetic
Disassembly

That's what we call them at work.

[Harbourmaster]

http://www.nasa.gov/multimedia/imagegall..._1499.html



"Building an Original

Platforms surround the Ares I-X in High Bay 3 of the Vehicle Assembly Building before it was moved to the launch pad on Oct. 20, 2009. Closer in height to the hulking Saturn V moon rockets than the space shuttle, Ares I-X looks unlike any rocket that's ever stood at Launch Complex 39. But it blends familiar hardware from existing programs with newly developed components.

Four first-stage, solid-fuel booster segments are derived from the Space Shuttle Program. A simulated fifth booster segment contains Atlas-V-based avionics, and the rocket's roll control system comes from the Peacekeeper missile. The launch abort system, simulated crew and service modules, upper stage, and various connecting structures all are original.

Image Credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller"