https://behindtheblack.com/behind-the-black/points-of-information/adras-j-gets-within-50-feet-of-abandoned-rocket-stage/ Mon, 16 Dec 2024 16:14:55 +0000 hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 https://behindtheblack.com/behind-the-black/points-of-information/adras-j-gets-within-50-feet-of-abandoned-rocket-stage/#comment-1537514 Mon, 16 Dec 2024 16:14:55 +0000 https://behindtheblack.com/?p=110677#comment-1537514 I think the launch environment is different than what it encounters in orbit. Much less dynamic with acoustics, vibrations and pressure changes vs thermal stress, atomic oxygen, UV and micro-meteors/bits of debris. Once it’s in orbit, it’s a different world.

]]> https://behindtheblack.com/behind-the-black/points-of-information/adras-j-gets-within-50-feet-of-abandoned-rocket-stage/#comment-1537391 Sun, 15 Dec 2024 22:53:14 +0000 https://behindtheblack.com/?p=110677#comment-1537391 M Puckett,
Are you sure it is the same stuff? The Japanese may not have the same environmental regulations as the U.S., and they may be using more robust insulations than we used on the Shuttle’s External Tank (ET). We already know from bad experience that the ET insulation flaked off like mad during launch.

]]> https://behindtheblack.com/behind-the-black/points-of-information/adras-j-gets-within-50-feet-of-abandoned-rocket-stage/#comment-1537355 Sun, 15 Dec 2024 17:09:50 +0000 https://behindtheblack.com/?p=110677#comment-1537355 The SOFI looks fine on that stage. I remember being assured it would flake off like mad and clog LEO if we attempted to use ETs as wet workshops. And the above stage has what, been in orbit for approximately 20 years now?

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