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I'm confused about this craft. The squat shape seems better suited for slow flight or flight in minimal atmospheres, and stainless steel as a construction material is very heavy. Surely this is more than a publicity stunt, yet it doesn't make sense.
I'm not fully clear myself, but apparently part of it is the high temperature tolerance of the metal, which allows them to keep re-using it. There is an active cooling component, but only for 20% of the surface. I think stainless steel may also be a little easier to machine than titanium.
I'm confused about this craft. The squat shape seems better suited for slow flight or flight in minimal atmospheres, and stainless steel as a construction material is very heavy. Surely this is more than a publicity stunt, yet it doesn't make sense.
I thought Starhopper is just the bottom part of the future Starship, but I could be wrong?
I thought Starhopper is just the bottom part of the future Starship, but I could be wrong?
Yes, from what I read, its for low-altitude testing of components for the future Starship 2nd-stage rocket. In that sense, I suppose it's like an X vehicle.
Here's a look at a test from today of the SpaceX Starhopper. The altitude was about 500 feet. Not sure about the distance, but its descent and landing was good.
Here's a look at a test from today of the SpaceX Starhopper. The altitude was about 500 feet. Not sure about the distance, but its descent and landing was good.
Looks like they did the test at their Boca Chica State Park facility in Texas just south of South Padre Island along the Gulf Coast. Too bad it wasn't this Sunday, I'm going to be in that area then, it would have been cool to see in person, from a distance of course!
I like the idea of a spacecraft that not only operates IN a vacuum, but IS a vacuum that cleans up after itself.
Now for the green version - Electroluxes in space! Complete with disposable dust bags and a wide array of attachments.
I knew you would have fun with this.
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