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Old 02-27-2018, 01:13 PM   #1721
DaFace DaFace is offline
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There are rumors that Hispasat may launch in the next couple days, but nothing definitive. I'll bump the thread when we know.

Unrelated, the first Block 5 F9 is on the test stand. Looks like it's gonna be a more black and white rocket moving forward rather than just white. The legs will be black too. (The yellow cap on the top is just to hold it down during testing.)



This probably isn't 100% accurate, but here's a brief synopsis of what people THINK the upgrades are:

https://www.reddit.com/r/spacex/comm..._readying_for/

Quote:
  • Titanium grid fins for unlimited re-uses.
  • New landing legs with the ability to be retracted by the ground crew instead of having to be removed after landing. These legs will also be black instead of white.
  • Changes to the turbopumps to prevent turbine wheel microfractures. This was never considered a risk by SpaceX but NASA asked SpaceX to fix the issue and from all reports they have.
  • Replace paint with thermal protection barrier coating for the purposes of re-use.
  • Improved heat shielding around the engines to improve re-usability.
  • The octoweb (structure that holds the engines) will be bolted instead of welded, to reduce time for inspection/repair/refurbishment and to allow easy change from F9 to FH side booster.
  • The interstage will be black instead of white - likely unpainted carbon fiber (saves time and weight).
  • Upgraded fairing, Fairing 2.0, which is very slightly larger and has changes to allow for recovery and re-use. It is also easier to make and lighter than the previous fairings.
  • SpaceX's upgraded COPVs (dubbed COPV 2.0) will fly on Block V. This is an upgrade to further reduce the potential for an incident like Amos-6.
    Another improvement in thrust for the Merlin 1D engines (roughly 10%).
  • The rocket will be man-rated, meaning it will be certified to carry crew. NASA has set the bar at 7 successful flights of the rocket for certification.
  • Upgrades to valves, seals, and many other parts to allow for many re-uses.
  • Improved flight control, angle-of-attack, and control authority which should allow for landings with less fuel (and therefore the ability to land after lofting heavier payloads).

To summarize, they essentially made many interior parts to a significantly higher durability level, replaced the grid fins and landing legs with versions that are more durable and easier to reuse, significantly improved heat shielding over the entire vehicle - but focusing specifically on the engines - to limit needs for refurbishment, and made the engines easier to inspect/repair/refurbish by bolting instead of welding the octoweb. Then, due to improved flight control authority and thrust, they ensured that they should be able to land more of their missions.

Last edited by DaFace; 02-27-2018 at 01:34 PM..
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