Is everything okay?
Starship 28’s Raptors swapped just weeks before the launch! But why?
The assembly of the second tower has begun! Where’s the rest?
Starship will launch a space station! And Virgin Galactic is ceasing all spaceflight activity…
My name is Felix. Welcome to What About It!? Let’s dive right in!
Starship Updates The excitement over the third launch of
Starship is growing non-stop. However, it looks like one of the prototypes for this
flight needs some maintenance. Is it that bad? Follow me and find out! There’s so much
to cover in this episode! It’s crazy. Our journey today starts at the
production site, where the upper stage of the next orbital Starship - Ship
28 - has been the focus of much activity. Regrettably, this has not been the
kind of attention SpaceX hoped for... Following its departure from the
High Bay, the prototype was moved to a Raptor installation stand.
At first, we thought this was just a temporary parking spot, but reality
turned out to be a little more serious. On January 31st, one of the Raptor center
engines was swapped for another one. Then, merely two days later, our
photographer, John, captured the removal of a vacuum Raptor from the prototype.
Engine swaps themselves are not an issue anymore. SpaceX has streamlined this process to such
an extent that it can be done within hours. However, the burning question is: Why do they
need to replace Raptors so close to the launch? There are several potential explanations.
Despite the Raptor’s capability to generate enormous thrust and flame that will
destroy everything in its path, it is, paradoxically, a rather fragile piece of hardware.
Even minor damage, such as a dent in its bell, could render it useless, turning
it into a high-tech paperweight. Damage may have occurred during the final
assembly or during the most recent static fire. Alternatively, insights gained from the second
launch might have revealed issues with these earlier serial number engines - Perhaps a
critical flaw in their design - requiring the switch to newer models.
This replacement suggests a minor setback in the launch schedule.
While Valentine's Day is likely no longer on the table, rumors are that February is still SpaceX’s
target for launch, so no need to panic just yet. Since we're already in the area,
let's go into the first Mega Bay, where we have something quite spectacular to show.
SpaceX recently shared pictures from inside this building, and the scene they depict
is nothing short of breathtaking. Not one, not two, but three Super Heavy boosters
proudly stand before us, fully assembled! To the left, we find the next in line for
flight - Booster 10, right next to Booster 12 in the center, and Booster 11 to the right.
These giants rest on the newly erected work stands - part of SpaceX's initiative to
streamline the production of Starships. Three rockets, each capable of delivering more
than twice the thrust of the legendary Saturn V, side by side. These are the largest rockets
ever built and they’re building up inventory. Let that sink in!
The picture also offers a glimpse into the tooling used for Booster production.
It showcases the work platforms strategically placed for worker access and a pair
of bridge cranes used to hoist the prototype sections into place.
In front of the work stands, we see the two segments of Super Heavy Booster 13.
Fairly recently, we’ve discussed the installation of its CO2 tanks, which you can actually
see up close in one of the pictures. Since then, the two segments
have been joined, bringing the count of near-complete boosters to four.
This is insane! Here’s a question for you. Do you think we’ll see these four launch
this year? Let me know in the comments! Another point of interest captured in this
image is the entrance to the new Mega Bay. Let's delve a bit deeper into this topic, as we've
uncovered the manufacturer responsible for this door, which sheds light on how exactly it works.
Initially, we speculated that SpaceX might possibly opt for a door system similar to the
one employed at the Vehicle Assembly Building – solid panels that move independently.
However, the actual design appears to use an entirely different mechanism from
a Turkish company known as Shipyarddoor. This door was hinted at several
months ago through the installation of vertical guides made from structural steel.
Similar structures were also seen during the construction of the second Mega Bay, meaning
that both buildings are getting protection. The functionality of this system
hinges on two components - the top horizontal beam and the bottom beam.
The top beam is the heart of the system, housing the bulk of the mechanical and electronic
elements essential for the door's movement. Central to this system are
steel cables secured by pulleys. These pulleys support the cables
that are then wound or unwound by two electric motors located in the middle.
Operated together, they allow for some redundancy - should one motor fail, the
other is fully capable of taking over. Positioned to the right are limit switches.
These switches play an important role in detecting the door's position, ensuring the
motors stop once the door is completely open. The bottom beam's design is
also surprisingly simple. It’s equipped with additional limit switches
for enhanced safety and six wheels that allow it to move smoothly along the guides.
We actually saw this beam in action before the fabric segments were installed.
Mounted atop this beam is another component equipped with numerous wheels.
A closer look at our latest aerial photos, possible thanks to Redline Helicopter
Tours, reveals two such parts were stored right next to the first Mega Bay.
This part acts as a load arrestor, a critical safety mechanism designed to prevent the door from
crashing down in the event of a cable failure. Additionally, it also prevents the door from
being opened when the wind is too strong, protecting the prototypes from accidental damage.
The working principle of the door is pretty straightforward - the motors wind the steel cable,
lifting or lowering the bottom bar as needed. However, the construction of the actual door is
more complex than one might initially assume. The cover is constructed in segments,
each requiring a horizontal steel or aluminum truss framed by two layers
of PVC, which is a type of plastic. This configuration forms a durable "sandwich"
with the beam nestled between the fabric layers. These segments are then connected, resulting
in a robust yet surprisingly lightweight door that occupies minimal space when open.
When the door opens, the fabric parts fold neatly, and the beams rise together.
Additionally, there’s a special piece of material on the bottom that ensures
a tight seal when fully closed. Now, why do I explain all this? Well, the structure
provides insulation against sound, fire, and wind. Remarkably, the door is
engineered to withstand winds of up to 260 kilometers or 160 miles per hour.
That’s enough to survive a Category 4 hurricane! It’s an innovative system that's usually
used as a shipyard or aircraft hangar door. I guess from now on, they can also
advertise it as a rocket hangar door! SpaceX doesn’t use off-the-shelf systems
that often, so it’s great to finally see a piece of hardware with some
public information available. Boca Chica is known for devastating natural
disasters. What are your thoughts? Will this new door withstand a possible hurricane?
Share your predictions in the comments. Looking at things from the birds-eye view
can really tell you a lot about the inner workings of Starbase. How about you
go see all of this for yourself? Book your own ride at Starbase and see
these things in person, or just enjoy one of the most incredible views in the world.
Go to redlineheli.com/felix! You'll find the link in the description as well!
I promise you won’t ever forget this. With those modifications to the Mega Bay in place,
we're about to witness a dramatic increase in the production rate of Starship prototypes.
Yet, manufacturing these behemoths is only part of the equation - the real
challenge lies in launching them. This brings us to the development
of the second launch tower. In a previous episode, I took you
through the meticulous process of erecting a launch tower - from draining
wetlands to installing the launch table. Here’s a card to the tower building
episode. Now, we're finally starting to see some actual progress!
During our most recent aerial flyover, we saw two sets of footings for what
will become the second launch tower. These elements are necessary for securing
each corner of a launch tower segment, allowing the construction team to
install horizontal beams between them. By January 26th, the beginnings of the eighth
section appeared to be underway, with the first column erected in a vertical position.
However, our initial excitement was short-lived, as the column was soon laid down…
Persistence paid off, though, with the column re-installed on February 1st,
marking a definitive start to this section. But Felix, how can you be so certain this is
indeed the eighth section and not, for instance, the first one?
Great question! Firstly, seven sections of this
tower have already been completed, meaning that there’s not much to choose from.
Secondly, the eighth section is notably shorter than a standard OLIT section.
It’s easy to miss, but both the seventh and eighth segments are designed to fit
two horizontal beams instead of three. This actually differs from the
configuration seen at LC-39A, where the seventh section supported
three beams and the eighth only one. This modification was likely done to
address balance issues encountered when lifting the sections of the tower.
With the eighth section actively being constructed at Starbase, all that’s
missing is section number nine. It holds the equipment necessary to run
a cable used by Mechazilla’s arms. Some parts of it are already at Sanchez, which
hints that it will also be built there. The other sections are slowly
making their way to Starbase. For example, segment seven is already at the
Port of Brownsville, waiting for transport. It will soon be accompanied by four more sections!
Footage from LabPadre’s cameras at Kennedy Space Center revealed that segments, recently equipped
with piping, were moved towards the port. They are ready for transport. The question
that remains is whether a single barge can fit all of them or if multiple deliveries to
the Port of Brownsville will be necessary. Only time will tell…
Upon arrival, these sections will be transported to the Sanchez site, where
they will likely undergo further outfitting with things like propellant and hydraulic lines.
The idea is to finish as much work as possible on the ground to accelerate the
building process. It’s just way easier to flesh them out on the ground compared to
working at several hundred feet height. As of now, the base for the second
tower has yet to begin construction. SpaceX is likely postponing this phase
until after Starship's third launch. We hoped that they would construct
the tower in an area obtained through a land swap with Cameron County.
However, the negotiation process for this deal has experienced delays.
The proposal was removed from the agenda of a meeting scheduled for January 25th to
allow for further comments from the public. The final decision on the land swap is expected
by March 28th. If SpaceX wants to begin the construction of the second tower soon, it will
likely occur within the area they already own. That’s the big mystery. Where do you think the
second launch tower will ultimately be located? Do you believe construction could
begin before Starship's third launch? Share your thoughts in the comments
- I always enjoy reading them! Now, here’s a little task for you before
we continue with more Starship news. YouTube may have unsubscribed you without your
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Surfshark, Surf with your own set of rules! Thank you, Surfshark! Check them out! Going back
to the news, we’re staying on the topic of SpaceX, as we've received confirmation of a brand
new dedicated Starship mission. That’s right! This comes after our recent discussion about
how Starship will revolutionize the market for commercial space stations.
What a coincidence! At that time, I showed you companies like
Gravitics and Vast already designing modules specifically with Starship's
unique capabilities in mind. We have a new player!
Entering the competition is Starlab Space, an ambitious project aimed
at creating a next-generation space station. This venture is a collaboration
between Voyager Space and Airbus. The latter is a European giant in the aerospace
industry, responsible for hundreds of satellites and numerous space systems. And they
have substantial funding capabilities! Starlab Space envisions a space station
that can be launched in a single mission, featuring a living and working space eight
meters or 26 feet, both in diameter and in length. Ridiculously large.
The station's interior will be focused on scientific research, even being
dubbed the first science park in orbit. This orbiting laboratory will be equipped
with two radiators, two solar panels, and a specialized robotic arm designed
for tasks such as satellite deployment. NASA backed up Starlab in 2021 when it
was selected as part of the Commercial Low Earth Orbit Destinations program.
This selection came with a 160 million dollar award to kick-start the
development of a station envisioned to replace the International Space Station, which
is anticipated to retire sometime around 2030. Initially, Starlab was designed around an
inflatable module, similar to technology used by Sierra Space in their LIFE habitat
or Bigelow Aerospace’s BEAM, which is still attached to the ISS for testing.
However, at the start of 2023, the decision was made to switch to a more
traditional metal can design instead. You know… there are not that many rockets that
can launch an 8-meter or 26-foot wide payload… It shouldn’t come as a surprise that Starship -
with its unparalleled lift capability and size - has been chosen to undertake this monumental task.
The launch of Starlab is set for no earlier than 2028, which means it likely won’t be the first
commercial space station to circle our planet. Nonetheless, it will be a major project to follow.
Yet, NASA's ambitions extend far beyond just sponsoring space stations - at its core,
the agency is deeply invested in science. This is why we’re about to witness
yet another in-orbit tool designed to enhance our understanding of Earth.
Meet PACE or Plankton, Aerosol, Cloud, ocean Ecosystem satellite.
NASA really loves acronyms… This Earth observation satellite was
designed to accomplish several objectives. Its primary mission is to monitor the health
of our oceans by studying phytoplankton. These tiny organisms are one of the key
species all life on Earth depends on, and they’re important for us if we want to
figure out how productive Earth's oceans are. PACE will also delve into analyzing Earth’s
atmosphere, examining clouds and atmospheric particles, to refine our understanding
of Earth's climate system and improve our weather forecasting capabilities.
Believe it or not, currently, we’re still pretty bad at predicting weather!
Our atmosphere is an incredibly complex system. To outpace weather frogs worldwide, PACE
is equipped with special instruments, including a high-resolution spectrometer capable
of detecting wavelengths ranging from ultraviolet to shortwave infrared.
Eat that, frogs! The satellite has already been encapsulated
within Falcon 9's fairing and is slated to launch from SLC-40 on February 6th.
Hopefully, by the time you're watching this episode, PACE is already on its way to orbit.
After such a deep dive into SpaceX-related news, let's pivot to Virgin Galactic
for a refreshing change of pace. This company is a pioneer in offering
suborbital space flights to civilians. Admittedly, those civilians tend to
be of the extremely wealthy kind, but you have to start somewhere, right?
2023 marked a golden year for Virgin Galactic! While Blue Origin was working with the FAA
to figure out why they lost a booster, Virgin Galactic achieved a near-monthly flight cadence.
Out of six launches conducted that year, five were fully operational, each ferrying
three paying passengers to the edge of space. After years of development, Virgin Galactic seemed
to be finally able to start flying regularly. And then, in November, it was announced that
Galactic 05 would mark the final mission of 2023… January saw the launch of VSS Unity
with the Galactic 06 mission, which, unfortunately, potentially marked
Unity's final journey into the skies. Despite its success and the milestone of carrying
four paid passengers for the first time - opting to exclude the Astronaut Instructor - this mission
was likely the end of the SpaceShipTwo era. While there's a slim possibility
of one more flight in the latter half of 2024, the focus is shifting.
Even though VSS Unity works, its business model is unsustainable for achieving profitability.
Shiny but expensive! With approximately 800 tickets sold, fulfilling
these commitments with just one plane at the current launch rate would require nearly
17 years of continuous monthly flights. And that’s just for those who have already paid.
This money is already gone. Anyone with basic knowledge of calculus can draw the conclusion.
Running crewed Spaceflight for 17 years without income might not be the best business idea.
The only way for them to become profitable is to fly way more people, which is why all resources
were shifted towards a delta-class space plane. The Delta is designed to accommodate
six paying passengers, offering a significant increase in launch cadence.
From just one to up to eight launches a month! Eight times six. That’s 48 passengers
per month. 800 tickets sold so far. That’s around 17 months. Way better than 17 years!
The introduction of Delta could save Virgin Galactic. However, it won’t be
in service until at least 2026. Investors are worried that the company will run
out of money before that, especially following Richard Branson's announcement last year that
he would no longer invest in the project. That’s why the company’s only
option is to take a huge gamble. Personally, I truly hope that they will
make it. Virgin Galactic is just way too cool and they’re so close!
The technology works. Now, it just needs to become profitable! Are there
any billionaires watching WAI willing to invest? That’s it for today! Remember to smash
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