(STS-16) Shuttle Launched Community Space Station

[Ultimate Steve]

Shuttle Launched Community Space Station

The Station, along with Starlight Shuttle Sunrise, during STS-16

 

Background:

This challenge is inspired by the way that NASA is building it's new Deep Space Gateway - submitting requirement lists and accepting a commercial proposal that fits those requirements. I am attempting to replicate that here - albeit a bit differently, applied to an ISS style station launched by a space shuttle. This also takes inspiration from a previous challenge that aimed to build a nearly completely participant designed space station, but didn't fit into the budget and never materialized. As such, this challenge is designed to be less user demanding.

 

Premise:

In this challenge, I have designed the launch vehicle (Yet another shuttle clone!) and will be launching all of the station modules. However, the participants of this challenge will be the ones who design those modules. I will have a list of modules with various design criteria, and users can submit proposals for that module. I will choose one and launch it as that element of the station. Multiple proposals can be submitted for each module, but I would suggest that only one would be to speed things along and avoid arguments.

The station will be constructed in three phases. Proposals should be submitted in phase order, but you can submit proposals for later phases early if you want to. This is done to ensure that we at least end with a station, at least phase one.

Phase 1 is about getting a basic station up, and phases 2 and 3 are aimed at giving the station various extended capabilities, or enhancing existing ones.

If the first three phases are completed, and people want more, I have ideas for at least phases 4 and 5, which will be niche station expansions and munar transportation infrastructure, respectively, but we will most likely not get that far, sadly.

 

General module constraints:

• Keep part count low. Some greebling is okay, but nothing excessive. Do not go over 50 parts unless you have a really good reason to, preferably much lower. My computer, well above average, is not amazing.
• Make modules unique. While you can just slap two docking ports on three hitchhikers and call it good, the station should look unique and somewhat detailed (although not too much, see part count rule).
• No cost constraints.
• Must not be dangerous to the station, pretty much a given.
• Must be made with stock or stock+DLC parts. In fact, at least one module specifically requires Breaking Ground Robotics.
• Download links must be provided so I can launch the modules.
• Must fit in the payload bay of the Starlight Transportation System, which is a length of 1.25 large mk3 cargo bays. Craft files are available below for fit testing.
• No real mass constraints, although the shuttle may have to be augmented if a large mass of fuel is to be launched. I had to drain some tanks on the shuttle to not make it overpowered, so it can handle anything you can realistically throw in the bay (No, this is NOT a challenge!)
• DO NOT put RCS thrusters or unnecessary control elements on your modules, the module will be launched on a shuttle, maneuvered with a tug, and docked to the station. Four RCS modules on the end of really long or heavy modules are fine, but for the shorter ones keep it simple. Your module doesn't need to be able to control itself in free flight unless specifically required.
• Enable joint rigidity on many of your module parts, this will keep the station from being spaghetti in the later stages.

Everyone can make an unlimited number of designs but I would prefer if the station was not all built by one person.

 

The Launch Vehicle:

Here is the Starlight Transportation System (STS), the newfangled partially reusable rocket that will be our launch vehicle for this station:

It was originally going to assemble everything with a robotic arm, but those are very buggy right now so we won't be doing that.

View of payload bay. Basically no obstructions, the wings don't extend far enough into the cargo bay to be a problem. The cargo bay can be modified with additional docking ports for payloads that require it. The bay is highly customizable, but I will do that on my end.

The first Starlight vehicle is called Possibility, and can carry a crew of 8. It also features jet engines in order to gain some cross-range capability, and to avoid needing a carrier plane for transport.

Craft files, mainly for fit testing: (Note, a bit outdated as there has been updates, fixes, and tweaks, but the cargo bay is the same size)

https://kerbalx.com/UltimateSteve/Starlight-Transportation-System - The whole shuttle stack, if you want to play around with it, or fit test your module. Uses parts from both expansions.

https://kerbalx.com/UltimateSteve/Starlight-Transportation-System-Orbiter - Just the orbiter, completely stock, no expansions. Perfectly fine for fit testing.

 

The Modules

The station is planned as the first three of several phases. If the first three phases are completed, more will be written, involving munar exploration and perhaps even farther. The first phase should be focused on first, but you can submit proposals for any of the three phases at any time; just be warned that I may not get to the later ones if there is not sufficient interest.

Some quick notes:

• The standard clamp-o-tron is the docking standard for most modules. The jr. size is used for some things, but I don't think that the Sr. size will be needed, especially using joint rigidity.
• For every module you design, you get to name a Kerbal in the save, who will be rotated in and out of flight.
• You should choose a name for each of the modules you build.

The available/planned modules list is organized in approximate launch order. STSs 1-3 were test flights.

PHASE ZERO - General Stuff

The Name of the Station - Fairly simple. The station needs a cool sounding name!

Mission Patch/Flag - The program should have a flag that the shuttle and modules can be adorned with.

OP Banner - The OP needs something cool at the top, like many other challenges have.

Badge - Something for participants to optionally put in their signatures.

Starlight Shuttle Orbiter names - Possibility is the name of the first orbiter.

Phase zero doesn't need to be completed before phase one.

 

PHASE ONE - Minimum Functional Station (COMPLETE)

Spoiler

STS-4 - Propulsion/Service Module (Designed by @Kerbolitto)

• The core of the station, designed to maneuver the station and power it for phase one.
• Launched into approximately a 140x140km orbit for ease of access, allowing for higher time warp while remaining relatively near Kerbin. May be slightly lower.
• Must have:
  • One normal docking port on the front
  • Maneuvering engines on or facing the back
  • RCS thrusters
  • Reaction wheels
  • A decently sized RCS fuel tank, to refuel the space tugs later on
  • At least two Jr. size ports for utility expansions
  • Sufficient solar generators
  • Batteries
  • A probe core
  • Basic communications equipment
• One of the most complicated modules as it needs to be able to fly freely

STS-5 - Tug 1 and Node 1 (Designed by @MDZhB)

• Tug 1 will be an RCS tug with the ability to move around and dock other modules.
• Will be docked to various places initially, whatever is open at the time. Its permanent docking spot will be in phase two.
• Must have:
  • Two docking ports, one on each end
  • A removable adapter from normal to jr size ports
  • Reaction wheels
  • RCS thrusters
  • A probe control point
  • Sufficient battery for operations and/or power generation system.
• Node 1 will be the first main connecting point for the station.
• Attached to the forward docking port on the Propulsion/Service Module.
• Must have:
  • Six docking ports, positioned like the sides of a cube, spaced far enough to allow for all six to receive 2.5m diameter modules without interference.
• Both modules will be launched on the same mission due to their anticipated lower mass.

STS-6 - Tracking and Relay Satellite 1 (Designed by @JERONIMO)

• A relay satellite in Kerbostationary Orbit designed to relay signals from the space station to the KSC.
• Launched into LKO, later enters KEO.
• Must have:
  • A booster stage to get it to its proper orbit. The shuttle will be launching into LKO only, as it doesn't have the range to go further.
  • A decently sized relay antenna capable of talking to the station at those distances.
  • Sufficient power and control capabilities
  • Enough fuel to de-orbit itself at the end of its life.

STS-7 - Habitation Module 1 and Docking Compartment 1 (Designed by @VA7NFH)

• Hab-1 is the main living quarters for the astronauts.
• Attached to the forward port of Node 1.
• Must have:
  • Two docking ports, one on each end.
  • Sufficient space to house at least 12 crew.
• Docking Compartment 1 is a narrow module designed to facilitate easier docking of the shuttle, as its cargo bay doesn't easily facilitate it docking at obstructed docking ports. The compartment will increase clearance.
• DC-1 will be moved around as needed.
  • Must have two docking ports, one on each end.
  • Must provide at least two meters of clearance from the station.

STS-8 - Laboratory Module 1 (Designed by @KerbalKore )

• A place where experiments are carried out.
• Attached to the starboard port of Node 1
• Must have:
  • A science lab
  • Several Science Experiments
  • A docking port on each end

 

PHASE TWO - Expanding Breadth of Station Capabilities (COMPLETE)

Spoiler

STS-9 - Airlock 1, MMUs 1-2, Docking Compartment 2, and External Stowage Platform (Designed by @Kerbolitto with MMU-1 designed by @MDZhB)

• STS-9 is a demanding mission due to the sheer number of small payloads carried. Multiple builders can be used, or one.
• Airlock 1 is a dedicated airlock. Although any hatch will work as an airlock, this one will look cooler and provide some utility functionality.
• Airlock 1 will be docked to the open port on Laboratory 1.
• Must have:
  • A hatch
  • A normal docking port on the docking end
  • Another port that the tug can grab it by, either size
  • At least two junior sized docking ports to dock the MMUs to
• The Manned Maneuvering Units are basically extended capability spacesuits, like the real life MMUs. They allow for free flight, more fuel, and increased capability.
• The MMUs will be attached to the docking ports on either side of Airlock 1.
• Must have:
  • An EVA seat
  • A small form factor
  • RCS fuel and thrusters for moving around
  • Sufficient control systems (if RCS is enough then no reaction wheels or electrical systems are needed)
  • NO probe core (this is a piloted spacecraft/suit)
  • A jr. size docking port for attachment to the station, and for moving other modules around.
• Docking Compartment 2 has the same requirements as DC-1. It can even be the same exact design.
• The External Stowage Platform (ESP) is a platform for experiments to be docked.
• It will attach to one of the jr. ports on the PSM.
• Must have:
  • Flat space to store stuff
  • Docking ports to attach stuff
  • A port to attach and a port for the tug to dock to

STS-10 - Utility Oriented Node 2 (Designed by @VA7NFH) Note, STS-10 suffered booster separation failure, with parts of a wing being destroyed. A RTLS abort was initiated, and the vehicle and payload landed safely. STS-11 or STS-10a launched Node 2.

• Node 2 is a module which utility related stuff will attach to.
• Attaches to the top of Node 1.
• Must have:
  • A docking port on each end.
  • Four docking ports near the top of the module, spaced evenly, to attach solar panels and tugs to. Must be as far upwards as possible so the solar panels will clear the other modules.
  • An RCS fuel tank to refuel the tugs.
  • An antenna.
  • 4 lights for station illumination.

STS-11 - Solar Power Module 1 (Designed by @JERONIMO) Due to convenience, STS-11 and STS-12 were combined into one mission, STS-12, as both payloads fit in the bay. This also offsets the extra mission, bringing the launch schedule back in sync after the STS-10 anomaly.

• A solar panel module to provide power.
• Attaches to starboard port of Node 2.
• Must have:
  • A lot of solar panels, but shouldn't interfere with any other modules.
  • Some radiators, but not a lot are needed.
• Maybe you could get creative with the robotics servos and make it so that the solar panels can rotate to face the sun like the ISS ones can, if your design means that the sun tracking of the normal panels isn't enough.

STS-12 - Tracking and Relay Satellite 2 (Designed by @JERONIMO)

• Same requirements and description as TRS 1.
• Located on the opposite side of the planet as TRS-1.

STS-13 - Laboratory Module 2 (Designed by @Kerbolitto)

• Same general requirements as lab 1, but with a few extra stipulations.
• Attached to the port side of Node 1.
  • Should have a different variety of experiments than Lab 1, but there can be some overlap. EG scanners, maybe an infrared telescope, more the big stuff.
  • Must have at least one of the scientific robot arms from Breaking Ground.

STS-14 - Tug 2 and Node 3 (Designed by @MDZhB)

• The same requirements as Tug 1 and Node 1.
• Tug 2 will be moved around as necessary, but will dock to the rear port of Node 2 when not in use.
• Node 3 will attach to the forward port of Habitation Module 1.

STS-15 - Solar Power Module 2 (Designed by @JERONIMO)

• Identical requirements and IDEALLY IDENTICAL DESIGN as Solar Power Module 1.

STS-16 - Escape Pod(s) (Primary pod designed by @MDZhB, secondary system designed by @thejameswilliam with partial implementation, more to be launched later)

• In case things go haywire on the station, and a shuttle isn't there to evacuate the crew, they need a reliable way to exit the station quickly.
• Attaches to the starboard port of Node 3.
• Can use either one large escape pod or multiple smaller ones.
• Must:
  • Be able to fly freely, even without the aid of crew, this means a probe core and electrical systems.
  • Have RCS in case it needs to re-dock with the station in case of a false alarm, or for drills.
  • Have sufficient TWR to escape the station quickly if necessary.
  • Be able to seat 16 Kerbals total, as that is the capacity of two shuttles.
  • Have two redundant landing systems.
  • Maintain relatively low part count despite complexity.
  • Be passively stable on re-entry without control commands.
  • Be robust and reliable.

 

PHASE THREE - Filling Out Station Capabilities (IN PROGRESS)

Spoiler

STS-17 - Habitation Module 2

• Same requirements as Hab 1.
• Attaches to the forward port of Node 3.

STS-18 - Fuel Pod

• Carries a lot of fuel to refuel any reasonably sized spaceship, or the shuttle itself.
• Attached to the bottom port of Node 1.
• Must have:
  • 4 RCS ports on the front to aid in maneuverability, as it will be very heavy.
  • A jumbo-64's worth of fuel, even though I don't think they are called that anymore.
  • A docking port on each end.

STS-19 - Communications and Control Module and Cupola

• A habitation module with a more important purpose, to serve as a command post, meeting, and hangout area for the astronauts.
• Attached to the port docking port of Node 3.
• Must have:
  • Space for at least12 Kerbals
  • An antenna of any size
  • A downwards facing Cupola module, may be integrated or a separate piece that is removed and docked
    • If the latter, must have 2 docking ports so that the tugs can grab it, while still keeping the windows clear. This can be done with a jettison-able port if necessary.

STS-20 - Robotic Arm, Docking Compartment 3, and Airlock 2

• I tested Robotic Arms, they don't work very well due to buggy docking port mechanics, so this is mostly for show. In an ideal world it could grab and reposition modules.
• Attached to the top port of Node 2, the Utility Node.
• Must have:
  • Enough reach to cover at least most of the station
  • Breaking Ground parts (duh)
  • A klaw on the end to keep it simple
  • Be able to retract into a small form factor and not spaghetify on launch (rigidity, can be accomplished with detachable braces)
  • Have a port so that the tugs can maneuver it into position
• Docking Compartment 3 has the same requirements as the first two. Ideally, this will allow for three shuttles to be docked at once, although that capability may never be used.
• Will be moved around as needed.
• Airlock 2 has the same requirements as Airlock 1, but without the extra Jr. ports.
• Will be attached to Laboratory 2.

STS-21 - Docking Array

• A long, slender area for visiting spacecraft to dock, enhances commercial and international participation (if we were simulating that).
• Attached to the bottom port on Node 3.
• Must have:
  • At least 8 regular docking ports, spaced far enough apart so that most docking craft will not interfere.
  • A port on each end for docking
  • Crewable along its length, cannot be truss sections.
  • 4 lights for station illumination.

STS-22 - Node 4 and Storage Module 1

• Both are medium sized modules, so they will launch together.
• Node 4 has the same requirements as Nodes 1 and 3.
• It will be attached to Habitation Module 2.
• Space stuff requires storage space!
• Storage Module 1 will be attached to the top side of Node 3.
• Must have:
  • Docking port on each end
  • Space for 8 crew

STS-23 - Laboratory Module 3

• Same requirements as Laboratories 1 and 2, variety of experiments, not be exactly the same, etc.
• Attached to the starboard port of Node 4.

 

PHASE FOUR - Niche Station Expansions, Early Munar Gateway and Exploration

Spoiler

STS-24 - Hotel Module

• A comfy module to facilitate the growing demand for orbital space tourism.
• Attached to the bottom of Node 4, so the bottom faces Kerbin.
• Must have:
  • Adequate accommodation for tourists
  • Habitation space for 8 (there will be fewer tourists but they need their space)
  • A Cupola on the bottom of the module
  • A detachable normal sized docking port on the bottom of the Cupola, so the tug can grab it to dock it but the tourists can still see through the windows after it has been attached.

STS-25 - Expandable Module Prototype, Docking Compartment 4, MMU-3, and Mini Radioisotope Research Module

• A demanding mission, each thing is small and can be built by different people.
• The EMP (BEAM analogue) is a test inflatable module. I don't care how the effect is achieved, whether with hinges, pistons, or that airlock part, but it should expand.
  • Attaches to the open node on Lab 3.
• DC-4 has the same requirements as DC-1-3. It will likely be attached to the forward port of Node 4 permanently.
• MMU-3 is like MMUs 1 and 2 but should be a bit beefier. It is a prototype for a lunar MMU.
• The mini Radioisotope research module is a test module for RTGs. The RTG or RTGs should be shielded with parts and on a boom (don't go crazy with length). Like usual it should have a docking port on each end. It will attach to Utility Node 2's top port.

STS-26 - Mass Relay and Orbital Crew Transfer Device

• Have you see than Danny2462 video? If so, you know what a mass relay is. Essentially it is two engines back to back which are turned on for a fraction of a second, firing whatever is in front of the engines out like a canon. The OCTD is a small pod for Kerbals to use the Mass Relay with, and also to visit the Co-Orbital Space Telescope with (see STS-27).
• Attached to the bottom of the fuel pod.
• Must have:
  • Two mainsail engines opposite each other with access to a small supply of fuel.
  • Two docking ports on an axis perpendicular to the axis the engines are firing along.
• The OCTD will be docked to the docking array when not in use and must have:
  • Seating for 1-2 Kerbals (not in EVA seats, in pods)
  • A heat shield (doesn't have to be full) to point towards the mass relay
  • A jr. port
  • Basic docking capability
  • Basic power capability
  • At least 500m/s of vacuum Delta-V, be it chemical, RCS, or ion
  • Be as small as possible

STS-27 - Co-Orbital Space Telescope

• Inspired by something the CNSA is planning. A space telescope orbiting ahead or behind the station on roughly the same orbit.
• Not attached to the station
• Part count limit waived for this launch, go as high as you want within reason, because this will not be within render distance of the station.
• Must have:
  • Some sort of telescope looking thing, maybe expandable with robotics, I don't care as long as it's creative.
  • A small habitation module for local repairs towards the back, holding at least 3 Kerbals.
  • Power, maneuvering, and communications capability
  • At least one normal docking port and two jr. docking ports connecting to the habitation module
  • At least one replaceable part (should be pretty small, to simulate servicing missions replacing things)
  • Should be as big and complex and cool as possible while still fitting in the cargo bay

STS-28 - Munar Relay Satellites 1-2

• Two Munar Commsats to bring comms capability around the Mun to what is required for the development of the gateway.
• Located in a medium high orbit of the Mun.
• Must have:
  • Enough propellant to get from an inclined LKO to a high Munar orbit, likely in the form of a disposable transfer/kick stage and onboard propellant.
  • Everything you'd expect from a commsat, power, propulsion, antennas, etc.
• Will be launched from the Dessert launch site

STS-29 - Gateway Transport Tug and Power and Propulsion Element

• A reusable shuttle that will carry components of the Gateway Munar station from LKO to LMO, along with its first payload.
• The transport tug must have:
  • A normal docking port on the front to dock payloads to
  • A normal docking port on each side to allow for side docking and payload loading while docked
  • A Delta-V of at least 3km/s with 4.5 tons of payload on board (enough to get from LKO to LLO and back)
  • Full docking, power, and comms capability
  • Can be powered by chemical, ion, or nuclear engines. If nuclear is chosen, only one NERV engine is allowed.
• The PPE is the first module of the Munar Gateway. It will orbit in a low Munar orbit, at an altitude TBD. It must have:
  • One normal docking port on the front
  • Ion engines and Xenon for propulsion
  • Full power and comms capability, enough solar panels to run the engines
  • No place for crew
  • Be less than 4.5 tons

STS-30 - Habitation Node L-1, Airlock L-1, Tug L-1, and Refueling Tank 1

• A payload for the Transport tug, the next three parts of the Gateway plus fuel.
• The hab node attaches to the PPE. The airlock and tug will attach to two ports on the hab node.
• All three payloads besides the fuel tank must be less than 4.5 tons.
• The hab node must have:
  • Space for 4 crew
  • 6 normal docking ports
• The Airlock must have:
  • Space for 1 crew
  • An open hatch
  • A normal docking port on one end
  • A jr. port on the other end
• The Tug must have:
  • Full RCS and reaction wheel capability
  • Full power, comms, and probe systems
  • A normal port on one end and a jr. port on the other end
  • Should be as small as possible while being able to maneuver modules effectively. Definitely smaller than the current station tugs.
• I will deal with the fuel tank. I will use the extra space on the shuttle to carry up enough fuel to refuel the transfer tug.

STS-31 - Lab L-1, Crew Transfer Module, MMU L-1, and Refueling Tank 2

• A laboratory module for the lunar station and a MMU. Also a crew transfer module for future manned missions.
• Both must be less than 4.5 tons total.
• The lab will be attached to the forward port of the gateway node L-1
• Must have:
  • A lab module
  • A standard docking port on each end
  • As many of the stock experiments as possible
  • Some way of attaching the MMU
• The MMU must have:
  • An EVA seat
  • No probe core
  • A reaction wheel
  • Power systems
  • RCS thrusters
  • In general should be similar to MMU-3 from earlier, a beefed up MMU design.
• A detachable crew cabin for the transport tug to carry crew to and from the gateway.
• Must have:
  • Crew capacity for at least 6
  • A docking port on the back and a docking port in at least one other place, front or side.
  • Be less than 4.5 tons

STS-32 - Munar Lander and Refueling Tank 3

• A Munar lander. Should be able to land on the Mun and return to low Munar orbit. As this is an initial lander (assuming we get to the next phase a better lander will be delivered), it does not need to be reusable, but it would be preferred. If it is not reusable, the upper stage should be reusable, and able to dock to a new lower stage.
• Must have:
  • Space for at least two Kerbals.
  • Be less than 4.5 tons.
  • Everything you would expect from a lander.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Approximated layout of station phases 1 through 3:

Note that it is not necessarily to scale, and the form factors are placeholders. Feel free to make your modules any reasonable shape. Also, this is a top down view with the front at the bottom, sorry for the weird angle.

So, yeah. Start choosing and designing, and then I will launch them once Phase 1 is either full or mostly full! I probably forgot about something, so if you have questions, ask!

Have fun!

Edited August 16, 2019 by Ultimate Steve

[Ultimate Steve]

Any takers? Not to push too hard or anything, but it is just designing a module or two. If not that's fine.

[michal.don]

I'll give it a shot, when I have a bit of time, I always had a soft spot in my heart for shuttle stuff....

Michal.don

[Kerbolitto]

Ker(bolitto)Mo(dular)St(uff) is ready to assemble a few atoms in your general direction!

 

I've just designed the Propulsion/Service Module  :

 

 

https://www.dropbox.com/s/xb2hlanuixf9ivh/STS-4 - Propulsion_Service Module.craft?dl=0

 

_46 parts (you can get rid of the radiators at the back & lights if you want, or change color of tanks etc..)

_26.65t. powered by 2 Cheetah, 4 RCS, 2 3x2 Photovoltaic Panels and a RC-001S Probe

_600 Monoprop / 1776 Ox 1440 Lf / 8000 Ec

_4 radial docks & 1 in front

 

@Ultimate Steve

Edited June 8, 2019 by Kerbolitto

[Ultimate Steve]

11 hours ago, Kerbolitto said:

Ker(bolitto)Mo(dular)St(uff) is ready to assemble a few atoms in your general direction!

 

I've just designed the Propulsion/Service Module  :

Alright, thank you for your contribution!

I have switched two of the normal docking ports out for jr. size ports, and doubled the solar panels, but the module remains the same apart from that. Thank you very much for participating!

Is the name of your module KerMoSt or is that a "company" name? Also, Kerbolitto Kerman will be added to the astronaut roster!

 

Also I've decided to launch the modules as they come. STS-4 will launch soon!

EDIT:

11 hours ago, Kerbolitto said:

Ker(bolitto)Mo(dular)St(uff) is ready to assemble a few atoms in your general direction!

Oh, sorry. Your module appears to be too long for the cargo bay.

Apologies for being vague about sizing, I will upload the shuttle to KerbalX to alleviate future confusion.

Edited June 8, 2019 by Ultimate Steve

[Ultimate Steve]

12 hours ago, Kerbolitto said:

Ker(bolitto)Mo(dular)St(uff) is ready to assemble a few atoms in your general direction!

Even more apologies, the sizing problem is completely my fault. It's 1.25 cargo bays and not 1.5, I accidentally counted the one used for utilities.

The craft files are in the OP, hopefully this won't happen again.

[Kerbolitto]

1 hour ago, Ultimate Steve said:

Even more apologies, the sizing problem is completely my fault. It's 1.25 cargo bays and not 1.5, I accidentally counted the one used for utilities.

The craft files are in the OP, hopefully this won't happen again.

I counted 6 cargo blocks to be sure but you did not mention the probe :p

I'll provide a new design no problem , also lets go with KerMoStu it's more wacky.

 

Or you know what, just get rid of the Hammer and use a smaller one, or a short fuel tank as you prefer !

 

Edited June 8, 2019 by Kerbolitto

[Barzon]

@Ultimate Steve I would like to take part.

[Ultimate Steve]

3 minutes ago, Barzon Kerman said:

@Ultimate Steve I would like to take part.

Alright! Just pick a module (preferably from phase one), design it, ensure it fits the guidelines (payload space and the details listed under the module) and post the craft file here!

Also, STS-4 has been launched with Kerbolitto's Propulsion/Service module, the KerMoStu!

Starlight Shuttle Possibility ready for its fourth mission, launching its heaviest payload yet.

And, liftoff!

I forgot to adjust the SRB thrust, so the pitch was pretty much maxed out and the shuttle nearly flipped on ascent, due to the heavy payload.

External fuel tank jettison!

And, Possibility is in orbit, maneuvering to its final orbit of 140x140km.

Payload away! The first module of the as of yet unnamed space station.

The re-entry, however, did not go as well. The shuttle flipped out and lost control, but control was regained eventually, fortunately.

And crewmembers Valentina, Bob, Kerbolitto, and Steve are safely back on Kerbin!

The shuttle will be modified to prevent atmospheric flipping.

 

 

 

[JERONIMO]

sounds... good...

question, the mission flag, should it be like you know, custom or the same? because in irl every country had it own flag.

[Ultimate Steve]

2 minutes ago, JERONIMO said:

sounds... good...

question, the mission flag, should it be like you know, custom or the same? because in irl every country had it own flag.

Either way sounds good, I guess. An overall mission flag would be alright to make, I'll go add it to phase zero. If you make a custom module flag I'll include it.

[JERONIMO]

sure why not, what's the flag of your mission is?

also downloading craft for testing, before launching

i'll take phase 1 tug if i can participate

[Ultimate Steve]

5 minutes ago, JERONIMO said:

sure why not, what's the flag of your mission is?

also downloading craft for testing, before launching

Currently the flag is one of the default ones, but a custom one would be appreciated.

[MDZhB]

Here is Chovel Youkai® Inc.'s submission for STS-5, the Node 1 and Tug 1:

Download here: https://kerbalx.com/mdzhb/Chovel-Youkai-Proposal

The node is called the Paracas and the tug is called the Takaya. This is a list of some of it's features:

• A separable normal-junior docking adapter that is also a miniature tug
• 12 quad-directional RCS thrusters
• 560 units of monopropellant fuel
• 2 SAS units for maximum stability
• 3 lights

Here are some pictures of the testing process:

Spoiler

It fits very comfortably in the Starlight Transportation System.

I launched it on my own vehicle to test in LEO

Ended up having to dock at night, but the Takaya handled the Paracas node very well. (This was an earlier iteration without lights installed.)

Docked successfully.

The adapter detaches...

... and is perfectly balanced to fly itself somewhere else!

The whole thing is close to the part limit at 49, but it's very functional and easy to use. Chovel Youkai® Inc. would like to recommend Lumia Kerman as a highly experienced operator of tug-like apparatuses.

Also, in case you want to use it, here is Chovel Youkai® Inc.'s flag:

Edited June 9, 2019 by MDZhB

[JERONIMO]

Edison Corporation, being the world first 10 trillionaire company. Saw this station as an opportunity to get money from science transitions and Kerflix.

So after a while the created the EDI-SAN-420GH, or shortly Money-Humming-Flying-Thingy (MHFT).

Can transmit at speeds of 0.0009 Mb per second and handle up to 3 devices! just for 130 Billion dollars and 98 cents.

(Note: warranty expires when touches space) (Also note: Not to call throught)

blueprints (craft file): https://kerbalx.com/Jeronimo/EDI-SAN-420GH

Photos:

mission flag (and also company's flag):

also note: staging might be messed up

[Ultimate Steve]

Great work! I'll probably launch them tomorrow, as I won't have much free time tonight.

[VA7NFH]

Koeing Aerospace would be happy to assemble a tracking and relay sat for STS-6.

They would also be happy to have their trained pilot Elon Kerman be part of a crew on the station.

I won't be able to post a design until tomorrow, I hope that's ok.

Just noticed somebody else got the sat, I can do the hab.

[MDZhB]

I should also mention that the Takaya tug has action groups in the first and second slots, for the panels and antennae respectively. That could be a problem if they aren't changed before launch.

[KerbalKore]

When i get home, I will build a proposal for lab-1. Is ReStock allowed to be installed during build?

[Ultimate Steve]

19 minutes ago, KerbalKore said:

When i get home, I will build a proposal for lab-1. Is ReStock allowed to be installed during build?

IIRC that just changes textures and a few physical parameters, right? If so, then craft files should still transfer, and yes, that should be fine.

[VA7NFH]

Here is Hab 1 and DC-1:

https://kerbalx.com/VA7NFH/Hab-1

I tested the fit, it's tight but does fit.

The lights are on rotatable mounts so you can point them wherever you want, has space for 16 kerbals.

Also just noticed that there is a probe core on the bottom as a root part, it should be removed.

 

Edited June 10, 2019 by VA7NFH

[JERONIMO]

so when's the launch gonna be?

[Ultimate Steve]

11 minutes ago, JERONIMO said:

so when's the launch gonna be?

I have done STS 5 and 6, but I haven't posted them yet. Working on that soon.

[JERONIMO]

 

1 minute ago, Ultimate Steve said:

I have done STS 5 and 6, but I haven't posted them yet. Working on that soon.

k

[MDZhB]

Chovel Youkai Inc. would like to present our design proposal for the STS-9 MMU: The Badwater Thruster

Download here: https://kerbalx.com/mdzhb/Badwater-Thruster

The Badwater Thruster is designed for small scale space maneuverability. It carries 1 pilot and is capable of docking with a Jr. size port. Some of its features are:

• Self powered with solar panels and limited battery life
• 6 monopropellant thrusters for lateral motion
• SAS module for rotational motion
• 60 units of monopropellant fuel

Some more pictures of the design and testing process:

Spoiler

This is a picture of the back side of the Badwater Thruster, as well as a list of its specifications

Another view of the craft with a pilot aboard. Note her head lights being used for illumination.

Maneuvering towards the test station.

To test the tugging power of the Thruster, we attached it to the mini-Takaya (with disabled RCS engines.)

The Thruster is easily able to move the much larger mini-Takaya to another docking port.

If no one else has any designs for an MMU, we could use the Thruster for both, but I want to see how someone else may approach creating these. It was a little bit of a puzzle to get the weight distribution correct, and to pack all of the necessary parts into such a small package.