RedKraken

Thanks!

My rules of thumb for pF : 1. Top node always connects to a (centre-node) engine....even if you dont need it. 2. Maintain the 2m interstage separation between top and bottom nodes (the height slider). Increase if needed. 3. Bottom node always connects to a (centre-node) tank. 4. Interstage base for interstages, fairing base for payload. 5. Avoid connecting to clipped engines or tanks. I get clipping on load issues and dead stages if i get too creative.

A lot of things have to go right for MCT to meet that 2024 date. I think it will slip. Too many unknowns. But the Dragon2 landings will happen and will provide an opportunity to pre-position supplies for a later mission. If you could group three successful landings in 2018,2020 and 2022 ( a big if... mars eats spacecraft for breakfast ).... you might be tempted to send... A 2024 Dragon2 with two adventurous souls aiming to land near 6 years of food, water, power, and shelter. Pickup by MCT later in the decade (2030?). Or maybe never. Just keep sending them supplies. It will be stinky, uncomfortable and dangerous as hell. But so were all the space race missions. I suspect there would be many capable, experienced people (crew from ISS, shuttle, or Tiangong) who would volunteer to go in an instant. And with no exact prospects of returning to earth. Interesting times.

One small commit for a man.....one giant leap for all your fans. Thanks!