Atlas V launch with X-37

[Kryten]

An Atlas V 501 carrying an X-37 uncrewed spaceplane and a number of secondary payloads is set to launch about 45 minutes from the time of this post. Coverage by ULA is here, and coverage by the planetary society (who operate one of the secondary payloads) is here.

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ULA's webcast has started.

[Dodgey]

I'm surprised they are still moving it into position this close to launch, is this normal?

[Kryten]

That's a recap, they did that yesterday.

[Dodgey]

Wow, bad timing on my part then, whoops.

[Kryten]

Go for launch. Less than four minutes now.

[xenomorph555]

This mission, OTV-4 will be the second flight of X-37B#2. It will test new ion engines in space as well as conduct material study's for NASA. The AirForce mission is classified.

[worir4]

Nice launch!

Just wondering why does the x-37B have an off centre thruster on the back?

[tg626]

Well, she's up. And in a post launch promotional video, they declare that the X-37B is the FIRST unmanned vehicle to land on a runway.

Um... BURAN?

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Love Steve's Space Shuttle tie!

[Frida Space]

[xenomorph555]

Well, she's up. And in a post launch promotional video, they declare that the X-37B is the FIRST unmanned vehicle to land on a runway.

Um... BURAN?

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Love Steve's Space Shuttle tie!

Just like Musk declares the FH has the most carrying capabilities since the Saturn V... Energia...

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Nice launch!

Just wondering why does the x-37B have an off centre thruster on the back?

Maybe the weight internally is off balance so the engines position is changed to correct it.

[Frida Space]

Nice launch!

Just wondering why does the x-37B have an off centre thruster on the back?

If you want symmetrical thrust the thrust vector has to pass through the CoM

[worir4]

If you want symmetrical thrust the thrust vector has to pass through the CoM

I think it is because of the solar panels that stick out during orbit. They are off to the side so the thruster offsets that i think.

[sgt_flyer]

There might also be some requirements because of internal hardware + plumbing / hull structure / connection to the rocket's upper stage that prevent the engine from being centered. Afterwards, as long as the engine is lined up with the COM, we're in space ^^ spacecraft orientation relatively to the engines doesn't matter - as long as your engine is thrusting in the correct direction