Update of Texas Starship prototype construction
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Link here. The article is mostly what I would call “in the weeds,” mostly of interest to engineering geeks. Nonetheless, the progress described suggests that they are working hard to meet Musk’s proposed schedule of first test flight by October, and even have a small chance of doing it.
Please consider donating to Behind the Black, by giving either a one-time contribution or a regular subscription, as outlined in the tip jar below. Your support will allow me to continue covering science and culture as I have for the past twenty years, independent and free from any outside influence.
Regular readers can support Behind The Black with a contribution via paypal:
If Paypal doesn't work for you, you can support Behind The Black directly by sending your donation by check, payable to Robert Zimmerman, to
Behind The Black
c/o Robert Zimmerman
P.O.Box 1262
Cortaro, AZ 85652
Link here. The article is mostly what I would call “in the weeds,” mostly of interest to engineering geeks. Nonetheless, the progress described suggests that they are working hard to meet Musk’s proposed schedule of first test flight by October, and even have a small chance of doing it.
What is with the stainless steel panel construction?
Its very annoying to me, what is the purpose?
Musk is saying that cryoformed Stainless Steel, has better heat performance, and with only minor heat shielding on the leeward (into the wind) side no other thermal protection will be needed. (Cryoformed is meant that the metal is processed at cryogenic temps while being shaped and somehow makes it more temp resistant).
They tested hexagon tiles on the Starhopper, and other tiles on the last CRS mission.
Demonstrably the SS construction is WAY simpler/cheaper than Carbon Fiber. (Demonstrated by the fact, vehicle #3 is approach completion in under 8 months (Starhopper in Tx, Mk1 in Tx, Mk2 in FL).
It is freaky, and cool and amazing to watch. Will it work? Sure hope so. Good news is they plan to test it…
Thank you.
It still annoys the hell out of me.
Annoying it may be.
Quick to build however it is.
Orbit we go.
Is that a haiku?
Syllables I cannot
Count with accuracy.