Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX) is to modify its Falcon 1 launch vehicle and upgrade its launch pad this month to eliminate wind constraints following a second failed attempt at a maiden flight of the low-cost booster.
The second attempt ended due to first-stage fuel tank failure. The window for launch, from the US Reagan Test Range’s Omelek island in Kwajalein Atoll in the Pacific, opened at 19:00 GMT on 19 December. At around 19:30, winds higher than 24kt (44km/h) led the mission control team to put the countdown on hold at T-15min and begin draining the fuel tanks.
As the first-stage fuel tank was drained, a faulty pressurisation valve resulted in a vacuum condition in the tank. This caused a fuel tank barrel section to suck inward and deform. “It is important to note that the root cause is an electrical fault with a valve, not structural design,” says SpaceX chief executive Elon Musk.
A new first-stage tank is being shipped from SpaceX’s factory in California and the damaged tank is being sent back for repair. The company is also to conduct a full review of the rocket this month, after which its engineers expect to make improvements.
ROB COPPINGER/LONDON
Source: Flight International