Brave New World - Stories of the Kerbal Space Center [I'm as surprised as you are that it's back}

[Daelkyr]

Jebediah Kerman First KERBONAUT

By Walter Kerman – The Daily Planet – Eelops 1, 720

 

The first day of the new year sees an exciting new breed of Kerbal. At the Kerbal Space Center, Jebediah “Jeb’ Kerman becomes the first Kerbal to become a kerbonaut. The new title refers to crew members of the Kerbal Space Center's (KSC) fledgling space program. Jeb, as he prefers to be called, has been a test pilot before joining the KSC in the role of kerbonaut pilot. He was tasked with being the first kerbbed crew on a rocket propelled vehicle.

The new vehicle, titled Kerbin I, was launched into the sky on a plume of smoke and fire in the early afternoon. The rocket travelled 10km into the sky before slowing down and returning to Kerbin’s surface. The return was aided by a parachute on the top of the “command pod”, a gum drop shaped capsule on top of the rocket. The kerbonaut and his vessel broke height and speed records on this historic first journey.

Gene Kerman, Flight Director for the KSC said that this mission was an important first step for future space exploration. Gene said, “Kerbin I, while only going up 10,000 meters, proves that we can use rockets for powered launches. This one small step is actually a giant leap for all kerbals.” Gene also stated that this launch will be only the first of many with the goal being an actual Kerbal in orbit around Kerbin.

After his return, Jeb Kerman described his historic flight. “The lift off couldn’t have been more perfect. I was slammed to my seat and felt some gee’s [Gravitational Force] like I haven’t since my test flying days.” Jeb also talked about the sheer joy of knowing that his experience would allow kerbals to explore the space around Kerbin and in time, the other planets as well. When asked if the program could really reach other worlds, Jeb said, “certainly. Getting into orbit is half way to anywhere you want to go. We could get to Mun before the end of the year.”

Whether the claims of kerbals on Mun are the stuff of science fantasy or within the grasp of the Kerbal Space Program, one thing is sure this day. The new year promises to be an exciting ride.

Profile of a Kerbonaut

Jeb Kerman is a decorated test pilot. Flying everything from prop-powered crop dusters to turbine propelled jets, it was once said that “if we could get a tin can to lift off, Jeb could fly it.” He joined the Kerbin Space Center (KSC) as a consultant on aerodynamics and flight controls. He eventually spent more time in simulators than designing them and the decision was made to make him part of the “First Four” flight crew.

Gene Kerman said that Jeb’s natural bravery, coolness under pressure, and willingness to “push the envelope” made him a perfect fit for the “First Four”. “Jeb was a Dev send. When he came on, we were mostly scientists and engineers. His flight experience and degrees in Aerodynamic Theory and Avionics have been crucial in both kerbbed and remote piloted endeavors,” Gene said. He also stated that Jeb’s skills helped the KSC solve problems they didn’t realize they had.

During his off time between design and piloting, Jeb gives tours around the fledgling KSC to school groups. His ability to explain the complex concepts of Thrust to Weight Ratios and Orbital Mechanics to primary school students is incredible. Often, young kerblits are seen leaving the KSC campus looking up.  Jebediah “Jeb” Kerman. First Kerbonaut.

 

The Kerbin I

An unassuming craft. The Kerbin I, named after its home planet, is a simple looking piece of hardware. A Mk1 Command Pod sits atop a RT-5 solid rocket booster. On the top of the Mk1 pod is an industrial grade parachute. Along the bottom of the RT-5 is a set of four control fins.

Gus Kerman, head of Operations, said that the Kerbin I is the last leg of a long line of smaller rockets and the first step in a new breed of larger rockets. “We have been testing with sounding rockets for some time,” Gus said. “But this beauty puts them to shame.” He explained that the capsule is state of the art with guidance data licensed from KER, vacuum rated hull, and life support systems provided by Umbra Space Industries.

The RT-5 has a maximum thrust of 162.9 kN of force on the launch pad. Gus Kerman was quick to point out that the RT-5 was not set up to maximum thrust for the Kerbin I launch. “With SRB’s [Solid Rocket Boosters] like the Flea [nickname for RT-5], we have no throttle. No control on the gas except for how much it can push”, Gus said. He explained that tests at maximum caused “poor results” from test bags of potatoes.

As work is completed on Kerbin II, the next vessel in the program line, the RT-5 and Mk1 Pod will continue to be a stable of KSC exploration.

Mod List

Spoiler

AntennaRange

AntennaRange Contracts

ASET Alcor Capsule

Contract Configurator

Tourism Plus

Useful Space Stations

Crossfeed Enabler

CTN Lander Pack

Dangit

Distant Objects

DMagic Orbital Science

Enviromental Visual Enhancements

Fiel Experience

Home Grown Rockets

HGR Community Fixes

Hull Camera VDS

Rasterprop Mod

Kerbal Attachment System

Kerbal Inventory System

Kerbal Consruction Time

Kerbal Engineer Redux

Kerbal Joint Reenforcement

Vessal View

Movie Time

Docking Port Alignment Indicatior

SCANsat

Final Frontier

Sensible Screenshot

Stage Recovery

Stock Science Tweaks

Strategia

Kerbal Alarm Clock

Take Command

USI-LS

Vessel View

Waypoint Manafer

Mark One Laboratory Extension

 

 

Edited August 12, 2016 by Daelkyr
Changed Subtitle

[Daelkyr]

Bob Kerman Survives Crash Landing of Kerbin II

By Walter Kerman – The Daily Planet – Eelops 4, 720

 

Today, tragedy was closely avoided after the launch of Kerbin II. The Kerbin II, the second vessel launched from the Kerbal Space Center (KSC), was nearly identical to the Kerbin I rocket launched at the first of the year. Using the same Mk1 Command Pod and RT-5 Solid Rocket Boosters, the main different was scientific equipment attached to the vessel to allow data about kerbbed flight on rockets.

Bob Kerman, the kerbonaut for this launch, is a scientist by profession. He was chosen for this delicate mission due to his knowledge about the science equipment that was being used on the launch. The launch went successfully. The Kerbin II soared into the sky to a height of 7km. As it fell back to Kerbin, the parachute opened successfully. As it landed back on the ground, tragedy struck. The RT-5 rocket on the bottom of the craft exploded on impact. Fire crews and technical personal rushed to assist. While there were no flames to be seen, concern was high for the kerbonaut inside.

Bob Kerman emerged from the capsule unharmed. While looking shaken, his first concern was the retrieval of the scientific data that he has mission had been the focus of. On the ride back to the KSC, he was reported to be in good spirits, but with a slightly delayed response to questions. Further updates about his condition will be reported as they are provided.

Bobak Kerman, Mission Controller was on hand to answer questions. When asked if Bob Kerman was qualified to fly the mission, his response was guarded. “We believe that any kerbal is capable of being a kerbonaut. Bob has had extensive time in the simulator and has had flight lessons with Jeb[ediah Kerman].” He said that future missions would evaluate the skills needed and that would impact the crew roster.

Discussions of what went wrong with the landing were speculative. Bobak explained that the Operations team had added the science instrumentation late in the Kerbin II’s design. And while it was too early to have concrete answers, they speculated that “the additional weight over-exerted the parachute”. Bobak said that going forward, the KSC would strive for “over-engineered for safety”.

An investigation into today’s nearly fatal accident will be conducted by Gus Kerman, Head of Operations; Gene Kerman, Flight Director; and Wernher von Kerman, Head of Research and Development. Gene Kerman said that “the possibility of accidents in any new endeavor exist. But we at the KSC will strive to remove any risks we can.” While these words are reassuring, today’s events are a sobering reminder of the dangers of space flight.

Profile of a Kerbonaut

Bob Kerman always knew he wanted to go to space. Tutoring other kerbits with their math and science homework, Bob was able to save enough money to buy a telescope and a SC-91 Science Jr. kit from Ker-Mart. Bob recalls many wonderful weekends spent tinkering with various materials in his kit or having campouts with his friends as they drew hand-made moon maps while looking out of his telescope.

In University, Bob worked on the fledgling field of rocket science with other future Kerbal Space Center (KSC) staff such as Linus Kerman and Bill Kerman. His mentor, Wernher von Kerman, was instrumental in helping him realize that his dream could become a reality. Bob graduated from University with degrees in Applied Rocket Science and Theoretical Orbital Mechanics.

Linus Kerman, Head of Applied Sciences, say Bob is the best kind of kerbal. “I knew that Bob would be one of the ‘First Four’, his desire for knowledge has never been quenched by books or distant observation, he has to go there,” said Linus. Valentina Kerman, another kerbonaut and one of the “First Four”, said that Bob was “the kind of guy that sees a problem, figures out the solution, and then goes and gets the wrench to fix the problem himself.”

Kerbin II

The Kerbin II space craft is based on the Kerbin I. The differences are hard to see unless you look up close. While sporting the same Mk1 Command Pod and RT-5 booster, the inside is where it counts. The Kerbin II is equipped with Crew Report log systems to allow the Kerbal Space Center (KSC) to have a detailed voice recorded log of what the kerbonaut aboard is experiencing. This allows Operations and Research and Development to make improvements to the new versions of the Kerbin series of craft.

In addition, the Kerbin II will be carrying two side-mounted “Mystery” Goo Canisters. “These proprietary science packages”, explained Linus Kerman, Head of Applied Sciences, “react to velocity, pressure, altitude, and heat.” Linus said that observations of the “memetic viscus fluid” will allow the Research and Development teams to create safer and more efficient rockets in the future.

Gus Kerman, Head of Operations, explained that the Kerbin II, like the Kerbin I is designed to land back on solid ground to be reusable. “We are actually working on refurbishing Kerbin I right now for use in Kerbin III,” Gus said. This method will allow a quick turnaround of KSC vehicles and keep costs low. With the need for space vessels increasing around the KSC, Kerbin II, or at least parts of it, will see space again in the near future.

[Ed. Note - This article was written before the Kerbin II crash landing.]

Edited December 7, 2015 by Daelkyr
Added Pictures

[Mister Dilsby]

Very nice! This is one of the best "from the beginning" threads that I've seen. I think the news report format works very well here capturing the newness of the program, the wonder and danger of everyone trying to go to space for the first time. That and your focus on the uniqueness of your particular version of our familiar Kerbonauts makes these early missions (which, let's face it, we've all run dozens of times) MUCH more interesting.

[Starhawk]

These are very well done.

I like the way the news reports give a natural venue for fleshing out the individual characters.

Keep up the great work!

Happy landings!

[Daelkyr]

Thanks for the kind words. It's exciting to see that this is being enjoyed by someone besides myself. 

News reports just seemed like the best way to do mission reports that didn't feel like a diary or a drama. I updated the second report with pictures of that mission. I'm trying to only do images as if they were being taken by cameras at the KSC or by the crews of the missions. So, while I have lots of photos per mission, they're not all the "action shots" I'd love to have.

 

[Daelkyr]

Valentina Kerman Takes Two Stage Rocket To Upper Atmosphere

By Walter Kerman – The Daily Planet – Eelops 10, 720

 

There was an air of excitement as Valentina Kerman became the first kerbonaut to reach the upper atmosphere. The youngest of the Kerbal Space Center’s (KSC) “First Four” kerbonauts, Valentina piloted the new Kerbin III rocket to a height of 21km, breaking the between lower and upper atmospheres. While traveling up there, she surpassed speed records set by Jebediah “Jeb” Kerman on his Kerbin I launch. After Valentina’s record breaking flight, her Kerbin III capsule descended back down to Kerbin and splashed down in the ocean, Rescue and retrieval crews quickly fished the excited kerbonaut out of the water.

Standing on the launch pad, the Kerbin III was an impressive site. Taller than the last two rockets the KSC has launched. It had a RT-5 booster with fins on the bottom and another RT-5 booster on top of it. The Mk1 Command Pod sat on the very top of the stack. When the first rocket had finished burning its solid fuel, a series of explosions sheered the first rocket from the second. Then, moments after the bottom began to tumble back to Kerbin, the second rocket fired and flew even faster into the air.

When returned to the KSC, Valentina was literally bouncing up and down with excitement. “It was awesome!”, she exclaimed when asked for a statement. Valentina went on to describe the incredible feeling of acceleration as her craft launched into the air. “When the first Flea [nickname for the RT-5] finished burning, I was thrown into the harness. And then ‘BOOM’ and the second Flea fires up and I was slammed back into the couch again.” She had to be firmly escorted to the medical station for examination of any possible injuries.

Gene Kerman, Flight Director was on hand to take questions. He first stated how proud he was of the Kerbin III launch. “This is an incredible moment for Val and all of us. We tested out some new hardware and concepts today and they worked flawlessly,” Gene said. When asked about the delay between launches of Kerbin II and Kerbin III, Gene attributed that to two reason. “Of course, the crash landing of Kerbin II gave us pause. But the other was simply a case of economics. Without being able to reuse Kerbin II’s RT-5 booster, we had to manufacture a new one.”

When questioned on what Kerbin II had taught the KSC about mission safety, Gene was quick to point out several changes to Kebin III. First, the rocket was pointed out over the ocean for its flight. “That was intentional”, Gene said. “That way there will be a softer landing for our kerbonauts. And anything that could go wrong will not fall back to land.” In addition, until better technologies become available, Gene said that only the Mk1 Command Pod would be reused. “We actually jettisoned the RT-5 attached to the capsule before splashdown so lessen the weight.” He assured that every possible step was being taken to safely explore space.

Profile of a Kerbonaut

Valentina Kerman loves being a kerbonaut. A member of the “First Four”, she was selected due to her unconventional thinking about space. Bill Kerman, a fellow “First Four” kerbonaut and engineer says with a smile, “I remember when she was an applicant. She couldn’t sit still in the chair, was tapping the table with her pencil, and humming the tune from that annoying gum commercial.” But when Bill interviewed her, she described the idea of monopropellant backpacks, essentially tiny rockets that are worn for travel by kerbonauts when out of vehicles. “We hadn’t even thought about what would be needed for EVA [extra-vehicular activity] and she was already solving how you’d get around out there”, Bill said.

With her ability to come at problems laterally, she was hired and became a pilot for the fledgling space program. Advances she’s developed for training are a centrifuge chair, using rapid lift and dive flights by plane to train for weightlessness, and dehydrated ice cream for snacks when in space. All of these achievements have impressed the Research and Development team. Linus Kerman, Head of Applied Sciences said that she was even working on a pen that could write without gravity.

Valentina, although playful described as a explosive ball of energy, has a remarkable focus when performing training exercises. Whether in the Centrifuge Chair, the “Barf Bomber”, or being required to sit for hours in the simulation pods, she never complains, fidgets, or loses sight of her objectives.

 

Kerbin III

The two stage Kerbin III is a proof of concept that rockets don’t need to be one piece. Essentially, a Kerbin I/II placed on top of an addition RT-5 rocket booster, the Kerbal Space Center (KSC) says that there is much more to the design than that. Valentina Kerman, kerbonaut, explained that the multi-stage design needed entirely new maths. “You can’t just slam two Fleas [nickname for RT-5] together and hope they work. Both booster need to be balanced for each other. The first stage, to accommodate the weight of the entire stack, and the second stage to take in account the higher altitude and reduced wind resistance.”

The other significant technologies incorporated into the Kerbin III was a Ionic Symphonic Protonic Electronics Communitron 16 antenna. The retractable system will allow communication with the KSC when vessels are high in the atmosphere and space, where traditional radio systems will not work.

While the Kerbin III is the test to see if staged designs will work, the KSC has already begun construction of its successor. What new improvements will be included in the Kerbin IV are unknown. But hopefully the Kerbin III will have a safe flight.

Edited December 7, 2015 by Daelkyr
Got the date wrong on

[Daelkyr]

Jebediah Kerman FIRST KERBAL IN SPACE

By Walter Kerman – The Daily Planet – Eelops 14, 720

 

In the early morning light, the Kerbin IV sat on the launch pad at the Kerbin Space Center (KSC). The new two stage design was again used by the KSC. With the familiar Mk1 Command Pod and a RT-5 booster as the upper stage, a new taller RT-10 booster was used for the lower stage. The rocket, sitting majestically, waited for over an hour as final pre-flight checks on the new booster were finished. Jebediah “Jeb” Kerman, the pilot for this flight sat patiently in the command pod waiting for lift off.

Finally, after a two and one half hour delay, the countdown resumed. At zero, Jebediah Kerman lifted off the launch pad on a deafening ball of flame. The new RT-10 booster sailed up to the upper atmosphere before being spent and detached. Then the venerable RT-5 was ignited and carried Jeb the rest of the way into outer space. His capsule reached a height of 90 km, 20 km past the atmosphere of Kerbin. While in outer space, Jeb experience weightlessness for 1 minute before his capsule returned back to Kerbin.

The descent was incredibly fast. As the Mk1 Pod re-entered the atmosphere, it began to push against that the air so hard that the air ignited into flames. Bob Kerman, “First Four” kerbonaut, said that the flames (called plasma) were nearly as hot as Kerbol itself. The descent trajectory was arced in a way to allow Jeb’s pod to literally burn off excess speed in the air while falling back over the ocean. At 3000 meters, the chute opened, slowing the Kerbin IV to a gentle walking speed as it splashed into the ocean.

Bobak Kerman, Mission Controller, was available to discuss this historic event. When asked if all mission objectives were met, Bobak said that the Kerbin IV and Jeb had exceeded all goals. “We not only went into space, we proved the Mk1 capable of re-entry using aerobraking [using the atmosphere to slow down a craft], we proved that kerbals can function in weightlessness, and that multi-stage rockets will be the answer to space travel,” Bobak said. He was especially proud of Jeb, who was able to complete all of his assigned scientific tasks while also piloting the ship.

When asked by Bill Kerman or Bob Kerman hadn’t been on the flight roster for this mission, Bobak explained that after Kerbin II, the decision was made to always have a pilot in command of the capsule. “Until we come up with better automated systems or a two kerbal capsule, we’ll have to train our pilots to be science assistants.” This policy, along with landing capsules in water, are continuing reminders of the Kerbin II accident and the possible dangers of space travel.

Besides the science data that Jeb collected on Kerbin IV, he also took several images. They show Kerbin from space. These incredible images are an inspiration to all Kerbin. With the success of Kerbin IV, the question of what’s next for the KSC was answered with a single word and a smile. “Orbit.”

Interview with a Kerbonaut - “Jeb” Kerman

Walter Kerman had the opportunity to meet with Jebediah “Jeb” Kerman just after his historic flight on Kerbin IV.

Walter Kerman (W): Jeb, how was this flight compared to Kerbin I?

Jebediah Kerman (J): Well, for one thing, I went a lot higher.

W: *Chuckles* You did. But what was the feeling like, knowing you were going to be the first kerbal in space?

J: Humbling, exciting, nerve-wracking. To be the first… at anything, can be a lot of pressure.

W: But you handled it with aplomb. How was weightlessness?

J: That was incredible. I’m still reeling from it. Have you ever had a dream about flying?

W: I think everyone has.

J: It was like the dream. Freedom. Joy. No worries. Only you don’t wake up. You’re just… floating.

W: That sounds like something. Tell me what it was like on the Kerbin IV. Where there concerns?

J: There are always concerns. We had tested the RT-10, the Hammer, several times before. But you never know if It’s all going to work out. That rocket lives up to its name. The kick was incredible. It makes the RT-5 feel smooth in comparison.

W: So what’s next for the program?

J: LFO. That stands for Liquid Fuel Oxygen.

W: What is that for?

J: We need a better lifter. The SRB’s [Solid Rocket Boosters] like the Hammer and Flea [nickname for the RT-5] are light and cheap, but they don’t have as much power as an LFO engine. In addition, you can’t stop them once they’ve been lit. We need more powerful boosters and the ability to start and stop them if we’re going to achieve orbit.

W: It sounds like orbit around Kerbin will be the ultimate goal.

J: It’s our first ultimate goal. Like I’m always saying, getting into orbit is halfway to everywhere.

 

Kerbin IV

The RT-10 booster used in the Kerbin IV is the largest, most advanced solid rocket booster to date. The Kerbal Space Center will use this booster as the “lower stage” for the Kerbin IV’s attempt to break into space. The remaining upper stage of the rocket will be the now standard Mk1 Command Pod and RT-5 booster.

While the technology currently used seems to be variations on a theme, Gus Kerman, Head of Operations is quick to point out that the Kerbal Space Center (KSC) is working around the clock to develop new technologies that will allow faster, larger and safer vessels to head into space.

Edited December 7, 2015 by Daelkyr
Fixed formatting

[legoclone09]

These are great! I did notice you  put a picture of the Kerbin 4 for the Kerbin 3, maybe you can fix that.

[Daelkyr]

5 minutes ago, legoclone09 said:

These are great! I did notice you  put a picture of the Kerbin 4 for the Kerbin 3, maybe you can fix that.

Thanks for the kind words. I'll fix that when I get home. 

[Daelkyr]

Kerbin V Takes Valentina Kerman To Space

By Walter Kerman – The Daily Planet – Eelops 18, 720

 

Four days after Jebediah “Jeb” Kerman’s historic first flight into space, the Kerbal Space Center (KSC) sent Valentina Kerman into space as well on the new Kerbin V rocket. A new trend of delays keep the Kerbin V idling on the launch pad for nearly three hours. The pre-dawn launch turned into a noon take off due to Operations and Research and Development making sure the new Liquid Fuel/Oxygen (LFO) tanks and LV-T30 Liquid Fuel engine that comprised the Kerbin V’s upper stage were in working top shape condition.

Once the countdown was completed, Kerbin V’s RT-10 lower stage ignited and hurled Valentina skyward. While the RT-10 lower stage was able to hit 18 km in height, it didn’t reach the 20 km that Jeb’s Kerbin IV did on its record breaking flight. Once the lower stage dropped away, however, the new LV-T30’s ignition could be heard all the way back to the launch pad.

The new rocket motor hurled Valentina and her Kerbin V, a heavier rocket in total than the Kerbin IV, to a maximum height of 80 km, falling 10 km short of  the height set by Jebediah’s first flight to space. Bobak Kerman, Flight Controller, said that the 80 km ceiling was an intentional choice. Once the target elevation was reached, Valentina deactivated the LV-T30 engine. A feat only possible with new LFO fueled rockets. As she sailed from upper atmosphere to outer space, Valentina experienced weightlessness for the first time.

Just after reaching 80 km in height, Valentina re-ignited the LV-T30 engine on the Kerbin V. Pointing straight east, she was able to restart the rocket and extend the time that she would be in space by moving faster horizontally. After a 10 second burn, she turned off the engine and coasted again. After another 20 seconds of drifting to her new height of 82 km, she ignited the engine for a third time and pushed her total height to 84 km. This set her total time in space to two minutes and ten seconds. More than doubling Jebediah’s time spent as first kerbal in space.

As she began to fall back to Kerbin, Valentina jettisoned her LV-T30 rocket stage. When she met the upper atmosphere the capsule of her Kerbin V was greeted with the explosive plasma flames of the air around her catching fire as she used Kerbin’s own atmosphere to slow her fall. After slowing to a safe speed, the Kerbin V deployed its chutes and safely splashed down on Kerbin.

Bobak Kerman, Mission Controller and Skyler Kerman, new Head of Public Relations were on hand to discuss the launch of Kerbin V. Skyler described the mission as perfection. “Valentina is an example of the daring things the KSC is doing. She’s the youngest kerbal in space, the first kerbal to test our new LFO rockets, and she has spent the longest time in space,” Skyler said. When questioned about Valentina not making it as far up as Jebediah, she responded that “height isn’t everything” to chuckles from the reporters present.

Bobak Kerman discussed the success of the LV-T30 engine. “With the new found ability to stop and re-start our engines, we have a whole new avenue of vehicle and mission profiles available to us,” he said. Skyler Kerman also commented that the new LV-T30 engine and the LFO technology that it is based on is already getting interest in the private sector. “Rockomax and Kerbodyne are in talks with our R&D department about licensing our developments”, she said. Bobak was quick to point out such ventures would only be to open up space technology to a wider audience.

When questioned on the KSC’s feelings about sending their second kerbonaut to space, Skyler Kerman corrected the question with, “newest kerbonaut in space.” When asked what the probable Kerbin VI’s mission profile would be, both Skyler and Bobak looked at each other and smile before saying “Orbit!” If that is indeed the next step for the KSC, Jebediah “Jeb” Kerman will be the next on the flight rotation.

Interview with a Kerbonaut – Valentina Kerman

Walter Kerman had the opportunity to meet with Valentina Kerman after her flight of Kerbin V.

Walter Kerman (W): Valentina, what did you think of your time in space?

Valentina Kerman (V): Oh my gosh! It was awesome! Incredible!

W: You seem pretty excited about it still.

V: I am. It’s exactly everything I hoped it would be. It was amazing. You should try it.

W: *Chuckles* I might be a little too old to start sitting on top of rockets. How was your experience with Kerbin V compared to Kerbin III?

V: No comparison. None. The Flea [nickname for RT-5] double stack was like being thrown down the stairs and then drug across the street to get thrown down another set of stairs. The gentle thrust of our little Valiant [nickname for new LT-V30 engine] was like taking a walk in the woods. Although the waiting on this one was brutal.

W: There was a delay with Kerbin IV as well, how did you pass the time?

V: By reading the launch sequence manuals. Truthfully, I was hungry. I skipped breakfast because of the early time. Luckily, someone had stored some snacks in the capsule. But I spent 10 minutes arguing with Linus [Kerman, Mission Controller] to let me eat any.

W: Was there concern that the new engine wouldn’t start?

V: Tons. And none at all. You gotta remember Walt, that we’ve been lighting Valiants up until they explode or quit on us for some time. When one goes “BOOM”, we tweek it until it doesn’t. And then try to get the next one to “BOOOOM”. My rockets engine hasn’t had a boom since Kerbin I.

W: That seems to be some dedication to safety.

V: In all seriousness, it is. We don’t ever want to risk the lives of our crew.

W: What did you think of the parade held in Jebediah’s honor after the flight of Kerbin IV?

V: It was something else. All those kerbals. All that ticker tape. All the “First Four” were in the procession. It was something to see. He deserved it though, he got there first.

W: No professional jealousy?

V: None. And tons of it. We all want to get to space. And I got mine today. And I was up there longer by a minute and 10 seconds. But we’re all happy and proud of Jeb. Besides, the blush and embarrassed look on his face when he got that medal. *Chuckles*

W: Word from the KSC is that Kerbin VI will be the final step of the Kerbin program. Orbit around Kerbin. What are the plans for the future?

V: Yeah. Kerbin VI will be the first use of a long stack LFO engine and a *shush* new booster.

W: New booster?

V: Yep. Twice as big as the RT-10. It’ll be what carries us most of the way up. Then the Valiant will finish getting Kerbin VI going real fast. It’ll be Jeb’s flight. After that, we’ll be moving on to a couple of different projects that we can’t talk about yet. But orbit is just the beginning.

Kerbin V

The Kerbin V is a marvel of modern kerbal engineering. The two stage rocket comprises a lower stage RT-10 solid rocket booster with control fins. The upper stage is a new Liquid Fuel Oxygen LT-V30 engine. The stack is capped by the workhorse Mk1 Command Pod. The Kerbin V is the tallest in a rapidly growing line of rockets.

The new LT-V30 rocket engine is the star of the Kerbin V design. Built to be able to stop and restart numerous times while it flight. It also has the ability to be throttled up or down. Gus Kerman, Head of Operations discussed the necessity of this type of engine. “Throttle is essential to space flight. We need to be able to ease our way past the thick atmosphere of Kerbin.” In addition, Gus said that the ability to stop and re-start an engine would allow precision maneuvers in space. “We can coast to a spot we want, then re-light the engines for a timed burn,” Gus said.

While reviewing the construction of the Kerbin V, much of the assembled Operations team was admiring a tarped off section of the Vehicle Assembly Building. When asked what was behind the curtain, Gus said “Pay no attention to the rocket behind the curtain.” He would only say that “Thumper” would have its turn at the dance soon.

Edited December 8, 2015 by Daelkyr
Corrected mission number in title

[Mister Dilsby]

Good stuff! Really enjoying the mission patches.

[Daelkyr]

1 hour ago, Kuzzter said:

Good stuff! Really enjoying the mission patches.

Thanks. They're fun yet frustrating to make. I want each one to be s variation on a theme but unique to the flight.

[Daelkyr]

Training Injury Sidelines Kerbonaut

By Walter Kerman – The Daily Planet – Eelops 24, 720

 

The Kerbal Space Center (KSC) was stuck this morning by another near fatal accident. Jebediah “Jeb” Kerman, the first kerbal in space, was working on a dress rehearsal for his upcoming launch of Kerbin VI, when a system malfunction caused his command pod to careen from the top of its rocket and crash into the ground. Recovery and Rescue crews rushed to the scene. At time of reporting, his injuries were listed as non-critical. He is recuperating at St. HarvestR’s Hospital.

Gene Kerman, Flight Director and Skyler Kerman, Public Relations held a small press conference after the incident. Skyler assured the anxious crowd that this accident would push back but not cancel the upcoming launch of Kerbin VI. “While we were all deeply concerned over the glitch that Jebediah experienced, we have every confidence in the Kerbin VI’s readiness to fly”, she said. Gene Kerman repeated the commitment to have Kerbin VI launch before the end of the month.

When asked what the reason for the malfunction was, Gene Kerman indicated that the new Launch Escape System (LES), a small rocket affixed to the top of the rocket and designed to wrench the command pod away to safety, had faulty wiring with the parachute systems. Gene explained, “We did not have the full rocket out today. We had planned to launch just the LFO [Liquid Fuel Oxygen] stack half full and test out the LES at an altitude of 10 km.” He stated that the LES system had been triggered prematurely and had activated the parachute at the same time. This caused a rapid descent as the chute caught fire and prevented Jebediah from having a soft landing.

Skyler Kerman insisted that the KSC still had the safest record of any of the burgeoning space programs on Kerbin. “That doesn’t mean we’re simply the ‘least dangerous’”, she said. “We’ve had only minor injuries and no hardware catastrophes. We’re safer than driving.” When asked if Kerbin VI would wait until Jebediah would be ready to pilot it, Gene Kerman said that Valentina Kerman would be piloting it instead.

[Daelkyr]

Valentina Kerman Orbits Kerbin And Returns Safely

By Walter Kerman – The Daily Planet – Eelops 28, 720

Valentina Kerman successfully completed one orbit around Kerbin today. Piloting the Kerbal Space Center’s {KSC} Kerbin VI rocket, the kerbonaut launched from the KSC launch site early in the afternoon. She rose in a graceful arc to a height of 85 km above the surface of Kerbin and then burned her rocket engine until she was moving at a horizontal speed in excess of 2,200 m/s. Shattering distance and speed records as she raced around the globe, Valentina crashed through the most elusive record of all: stable orbit around our planet. Moving at a velocity that allowed her to travel the circumference of Kerbin in a mere 30 minutes time, Valentina then fired her LV-T30 rocket engine on last time to allow her Mk1 Command Pod to fall back from space towards Kerbin.

Valentina previously held the record for time spent in space at two minutes and 10 seconds. Her new record, started when she surpassed 70 km altitude is an astonishing 34 minutes 20 seconds. In addition, she set more unique records as being the first kerbonaut to eat and drink in space, experiencing weightlessness for longer than any other kerbal, and being the fastest kerbal in history. Kerbals across the world tuned in to radio and television broadcasts of the launch, a first of its own kind. Her final record set may have been most kerbals participating in a single event.

Of particular note on this historic flight, Kerbin VI was equipped with several cameras. The design was to capture Kerbin VI’s ascent into orbit for study and to take clear images of Kerbin from orbit outside of a craft. The pictures of the launch were spectacular. However, kerbals across the world are clamoring for prints of the Kerbin-side images from outside the ship.

After splashing down in the ocean near the KSC, Valentina waited 15 minutes for the Rescue and Retrieval crew to collect her capsule and herself. Reports of her smiling cheerfully and waiving to the kerbals sent to bring her home speak to the joy she finds in being a kerbonaut. Once she was brought back to the KSC, she was transferred to a makeshift medical center to find out what, if any, ill health consequences there are from prolonged absence from Kerbin’s gravity. At last report on her situation, this reporter saw a green hand sneak its way in between the flaps of the medical tent and offer a big thumbs up.

A press conference with many of the department heads of the KSC was held while Valentina Kerman was being examined. Gene Kerman, Flight Director and Skyler Kerman, Public Relations were standing next to the lectern while sitting at a table next to them were Gus Kerman, Head of Operations; Linus Kerman, Head of Applied Sciences; Bobak Kerman. Mission Controller; and reclusive Werhner von Kerman, Head of Research and Development. In addition, Jebediah “Jeb” Kerman, Bill Kerman, and Bob Kerman; the other members of the “First Four” were at the conference. The atmosphere was one of jubilance.

Speaking first, Gene Kerman stated that the success of Kerbal VI was carried on Valentina’s shoulders, but was placed there by every single member of the KSC. “We could not have taken this step forward into the future, without the tireless work of every kerbal who believed in this dream. Whether they flew the rockets, built them, or cleaned up after the messes left by everyone else”, Gene said. He went on to thank each of the “First Four” for their willingness to the take the risk to be first and to “wrap the flowing white silk scarf” bravely around their neck.

Skyler Kerman, expressed deep appreciation to the kerbonauts. She said, “Because each of you, even you Bob, were willing to lift where we needed you, the Kerbal Space Center has been able to safely put a kerbal into orbit and bring her safely home.” She went on to compliment how the KSC has worked over monumental hurdles to create a reliable, trustworthy, and safe program for kerbbed space exploration.

Gus Kerman spoke at length about the difficult work and enormous challenges that went into the design of the Kerbin VI. He thanks Linus Kermans Applied Sciences division for making sense of the data that Kerbin I – V brought back. Gus also thanked Werhner von Kerman’s Research and Development team for being able to “science the [expletive] out of things”. He finally thanked his own department for the overly long hours to craft vehicles that could “pierce the sky and come back safely”.

Jebediah “Jeb” Kerman, his arm still in a sling from an accident that bumped him from being the pilot on Kerbin VI, spoke last. Jeb started by saying the dream of space travel had existed “ever since kerbits looked up at Mun and wondered how high it was”. He expressed no regrets for missing the opportunity of being the first kerbal in orbit. “You probably all forgot I *was* the first kerbal in space,” he said to much laughter. He concluded his remarks with some emotion says, “It’s enough for me… for any kerbal, that someone simply did it. Val was that someone. She went first, so others could follow.”

Questions were asked to be held on the Eelops 30, when the KSC would open up its new larger launch site. At that time, Gene Kerman will outline the next programs that will be the focus of the KSC.

This morning’s historic event will live on in the memories of all kerbals alive today. Today Kerbin became just a little bit smaller. But our universe became just a little bit larger. Foror so long, our heroes have been images of myth up in the sky. Now we can look up and see our heroes in the sky anew. But this time they are real, flesh and bone kerbals. Kerbals that ride chariots of fire towards the heavens and bring back knowledge of the journeys. This mythology is growing ever stronger because of Valentina Kerman – First Kerbal in Orbit.

Kerbin VI

The venerable Mk1 Command Pod sits atop its rocket stack as it always has. But the Kerbal Space Center’s (KSC) new Kerbin VI is redesigned in every way. While still a two stage rocket comprised of a solid rocket booster lower stage and a Liquid Fuel Oxygen (LFO) rocket upper stage, each part has been retrofitted or completely redesigned. Even the parachute has not been left out of the upgrades.

A new Launch Escape System (LES) sits on top of a modified parachute system. This small but powerful booster rocket is designed to sheer the capsule from a faulty or malfunctioning vessel and pull the kerbonaut to safety. Designed to safely decouple from the craft when it has reached a safe altitude, it is a continuing show of “safety by over designing”.

Used recently on the Kerbin V, the LV-T30 Liquid Fuel Oxygen (LFO) engine is now resting under an LFO long stack of fuel tanks allowing it to burn longer and farther than ever before. Measuring in at over twice the length of the standard LFO stack, Gus Kerman, Head of Operations, assures that this upper stage of the rocket will feature more thrust than any rocket ever before.

The RT-5 and the RT-10 solid rocket boosters which have been In house designs have been replaced by Rockomax Corporations BACC “Thumper” Solid Fuel Booster. This long grey cylinder offers more thrust and lift than anything KSC has used to date, or even has access to. The first entry by Rockomax into the growing space industry. The KSC helped Rockomax with design specification for the 1.25 m rocket booster.

The final addition for the Kerbin VI is camera technology provided by Razzlebad. With the historic mission into orbit. The vessel will be equipped with two hull mounted cameras. One pointing down to allow the KSC and kerbals worldwide to see what a rocket launch looks like from outside the rocket. In addition, a second mounted camera will allow high quality pictures of Kerbin from the vantage point of outer space.

All of these improvements combine into a rocket that will fly farther, higher and faster than any the KSC has flown before. The goal is to have Kerbin VI make orbit around its namesake planet.

[Daelkyr]

Kerbal Space Center Reveals Plans for Mun

Celebrates New Launch Site and Shows Two Kerbal Pod

By Walter Kerman – The Daily Planet – Eelops 30, 720

 

The excitement at the Kerbin Space Center (KSC) was palpable this morning as the Heads of each department gathered around the newly finished launch site. With Gene Kerman, Flight Director and Skyler Kerman, Public Relations, taking their place in front of the lectern, the gathered crowds waiting in the hot rays of Kerbol finally quieted down. Behind the lectern was a large object covered with a red tarp. And sitting to the side of the trap was the “First Four” kerbonauts, Jebediah “Jeb” Kerman, Bob Kerman, Bill Kerman, and Valentina Kerman. Valentina, the first kerbonaut in orbit, had just finished a whirlwind two day tour of the continent participating in parades in several cities.

Gene Kerman began by thanking all who were in attendance. He offered congratulatory words to the KSC for the recent success of their Kerbin program and completion of the new launch pad. He then turned his remarks to the future. “You all are here to hear what’s coming next”, he said smiling. Gene then gave a quick thumbs up. The red tarp was removed, revealing a new larger command pod. At the same time, a flag with what was described as “Program Patch” was carried on to the launch pad and displayed to a cheering crowd.

The flag, showing a command pod sitting above the curve of Kerbin. Above the pod itself, sat two four point stars. Below the pod was a single word, MOHO. Skyler Kerman explained that the program, named Moho, was to test out the new two-kerbal capsule behind her. The design called for the reliable Mk1 Command Pod to be connected to a new Mk1-85 laboratory extension. The new two kerbal pod would allow tandem flights.

When asked what the need for a two kerbal pod would be, Skyler explained that this would allow a pilot and a specialist, either engineer or scientist to travel together into Kerbin’s orbit. The specialist would be able to perform experiments or other work while the pilot remained in control of the ship. She also commented that any long distance space journey “won’t be the kind of thing you want to do alone”.

That was when Gene Kerman gave a second thumbs up and another program patch flag was carried in. Showing Kerbin in the background, the majority of the patch was taken up by an image of Mun. A rocket was shown hurtling from Kerbin towards its moon. The single word on the patch was MUNA. Gene explained that the “Muna” Program was to map and explore Mun in preparations for putting kerbal on our nearest celestial body.

When asked what that would entail, he said the first step was “simply getting there.” Gene explained that the Muna program would be made up of remote piloted probes and satellites to develop and practice all of the skills needed for kerbals to follow. Skyler reassured the audience that the idea of simply throwing a rocket on Mun with kerbonauts onboard and then figuring out how to get them home was not how the KSC worked.

Gene Kerman said that Moho and Muna will be run simultaneously. Each project will provide scientific data and technical development to “achieve kerbbed Mun landings before the year is over”, Gene said

with confidence. As well, with the need for two-kerbal flight crews, and the lessons learned from the Kerbin VI test accident, Gene said that the KSC would be expanding its roster of kerbonauts and introduced their first new pilot Hudley Kerman.

The first flight for Moho will be Moho I. Jebediah “Jeb” Kerman and Bob Kerman will be the flight crew for that mission. The first mission for Muna will be Muna I. A flyby of Mun to gauge how to actually hit another celestial body and to provide basic telemetry about our closest neighbor.

Gene Kerman closed the conference by paraphrasing “Jeb” Kerman’s oft repeated line. “Getting into orbit is halfway to anywhere, so now it’s time to start playing where that’s going to be.”

 

Kerbal Space Center Launch Site

The Kerbal Space Center (KSC) was host to huge crowd to spectators today as it unveiled its new launch site. Replacing the simple pit of piled sand and dirt, the new launch pad is a gleaming edifice of concreate and steel. The launch pads base is a raised platform with a steel mesh in the middle. Gus Kerman, Head of Operations, says that this will allow the blast force of larger rockets to be channeled away from the engines in through three vents built into the sides of the platform. As well, several water tanks are located around the launch pad for use in emergency fire retardation and as noise control.

The new launch site has been re-enforced to withstand much heavier rocket payloads. The original launch pad was limited by the grounds own lifting ability, 18 tons. Gus Kerman said that this new structure could handle weights of upwards of 140 tons. The largest rocket built to date, the Kerbin VI, weighed in at 16.8 tons. The sheer size of a rocket that would come close to meeting that weight limit, let alone exceeding it, staggers the imagination.

The new launch side also includes a re-enforced track from bringing the finished rockets from the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) to the site. Gus Kerman fondly reminisced on the changes in the last month. “I remember carrying our sounding rockets by hand. And the Kerbin I we brought in a long bed truck.” Gus said that Kerbin III was the first time they needed a dedicated “crawler” vehicle to transport a rocket. “And Kerbin VI was the last thing of practical size the old pad could have accommodated,” Gus explained.

When asked what the future held for the newly unveiled launch site, Gus smiled slightly and said, “Rockets. Really big rockets.”

Spoiler

I'm have a little bit of trouble going going though Moho and Muna. I didn't realize Sensible Screenshots mod was a thing when I started this, so the shots are a mess. I've been sorting them out as quickly as I can. When I start a new game (and I've started a few), I usually do all the LKO stuff before turning to Mun. But a Flyby contract popped up really early, so dumped a ton of science to race to Basic Science before really unlocking a lot of my usual kerbbed stuff. So, instead of a lull while I flyby Mun. I did both.

 

[DMSP]

This actually really nicely made!

Following!

[Daelkyr]

5 hours ago, DMSP said:

This actually really nicely made!

Following!

Thanks for the kind words. I've really enjoyed writing them u up so far. 

[Daelkyr]

Bob Kerman First Kerbal To Walk In Space

Jebediah Kerman and Bob Kerman Orbit Kerbin Twice in Moho II

By Walter Kerman – The Daily Planet – Eelops 43, 720

 

Crowds numbering in the thousands gathered at the Kerbal Space Center (KSC) to watch the launch of Moho I. The first capable of carrying two kerbal capsule, the Moho I carried Jebediah “Jeb” Kerman and Bob Kerman into orbit. As the countdown slowly worked its way from T -20 minutes, all eyes were riveted to the largest rocket stack the KSC has ever built. Gleaming in the noon light, the Moho capsule rested on top of a two stage stack. The upper stage was the familiar 1.25 m diameter seen in the Kerbin program. However, the lower stage was a new, wider 1.875 m rocket.

When zero was reached, the Moho I leaped into the sky. Momentarily deafened onlookers oohed and awed as the rocket climbed an ever increasing column of smoke as it made its way spaceward. The larger, lower stage propelled the rocket ever higher until it was lost from sight. The gathered crowd either switched on or turned up their radios to listen to announcements of the kerbonauts progress from Mission Control.

At close to 60 km up, the Moho I jettisoned its lower stage rocket and Jebediah Kerman fired up the smaller upper stage. With a short burn to push the Moho I’s top altitude (or apoapsis) to 85 km, the engine was cut and the rocket was allowed to silently slip into space. When the time came to reignite the engine, the new LT-V909 started without complaint and Jeb circularized the rockets orbit at 85 km by 82 km. After a brief respite to enjoy the sheer exhilaration of weightlessness, Jeb orientated the vessel into the sunlight of Kerbol and Bob prepared for the first phase of Moho I’s mission.

At 15 minutes into Moho I’s flight, Bob Kerman suited up in a pressurized Extra-Vehicular Activity (EVA) space suit. Then at 16 minutes into the mission, the Mk1-85 capsule extension had its oxygen cycled out of the cabin in preparation for Bob to step outside the capsule. On minute 17 Bob Kerman opened up his capsule door, and while hurtling around Kerbin at speeds in excess of 2,200 m/s, he prepared to step outside.

The atmosphere in Mission Control was tense. All eyes were glued to monitors feeding life-signs and vital statistics for both kerbals and their craft. Bobak Kerman, Mission Controller paced back and forth, a cigarette forgotten in his hand. Gene Kerman, Flight Director, stood silent and still amid the hushed chaos. Bill Kerman, Capsule Communicator (CapCom), listening to the final go ahead from Bobak, said “Bob, why don’t you get some fresh air.” Moments passed inside the Mission Control with seemingly no one breathing when the radio crackled and Bob Kerman reported, “CapCom, this is Bob. My front yard is beautiful.”

Bob Kerman became the first kerbal to “walk” in space. Spending four minutes on EVA, he was able to confirm the ability to move while in the vacuum of space and was able to successfully test a monopropellant movement system designed by fellow kerbonaut Valentina Kerman. During his four minutes in his “front yard”, Bob performed and retrieved several scientific experiments and even took several photographs of Kerbin from space. After 3 minutes and 30 seconds on EVA, CapCom ordered Bob to return to the Mk1-85, but radio problems prevented him from complying immediately, causing his return to be delayed by 30 seconds.

After returning to the capsule, Jebediah and Bob finished their first orbit of Kerbin and followed it by a second orbit of the planet. They set a record in space as their mission had them in low Kerbin orbit for just over an hour. Once they finished their second orbit over the great desert, Jebediah fired the Moho I’s rocket and lowered the kerbonauts back to Kerbin. However, their return was not as flawless as their ascent. The Moho I’s descent burn was 8 seconds longer than needed. This caused the capsules return to be shallow. Jeb and Bob hit the atmosphere and experience over 5 times the strength of gravity due to their shallow descent. After slowing enough to trigger their parachute, the Moho I landed roughly in the highlands west if the KSC. This is the second time Bob Kerman has had a landing not go to plan

Recovery and Rescue teams where scrambled to retrieve the kerbonauts from their landing site. After 45 minutes, Jeb and Bob were safely on their way home with the Moho I capsule in tow. The pair of kerbonauts are reported in good health and high spirits. When asked for a quick comment, Jebediah’s comment was drowned out by an exuberant Bob yelling “First!” Skyler Kerman, Public Relations, said that Moho I was an “orbiting success” and that the Moho program would continue to set firsts in space exploration.

Interview with a Kerbonaut – Bob Kerman

Walter Kerman had the chance to sit and talk with BobKerman after his historic spacewalk.

Walter Kerman (W): Bob, you were one of the “First Four” kerbonauts and have already been to in a rocket on Kerbin II. Was Moho I more of the same or different for you?

Bob Kerman (B): It was very different. We knew that Moho’s first objective was the spacewalk. But Gene and Bobak weren’t telling who the two kerbals were.

W: Did that cause some concern?

B: No, just speculation. And then I get the call to step into Gene’s office. I see Bill [Kerman, “First Four” kerbonaut] there and I think to myself, “Well, Bill’s finally going to space.” And Bill gets this big grin and says that he’s gonna love seeing me test out the KMU [Kerbal Movement Unit, the rocket pack Bob used to move during his spacewalk].

W: Did that come as a shock?

B: It did. I mean, here I was going up again and Bill hadn’t even been in a rocket. Especially with how Kerbin II ended.

W: Your crash landing cast a long shadow over the remaining flights of the Kerbin program.

B: That’s the truth. We changed so many procedures and assumptions after the incident. All for the better of course. In fact, if I hadn’t crashed, we might have had something worse happen latter on when the rockets got bigger.

W: An interesting way of looking at it. Besides the changes in procedures, was there any problems that you personally experienced because of the landing.

B: Besides being grounded until we could work up a two kerbal capsule, the only real problem was that Bill made a sign that says “Days since Bob Crashed a Spaceship”. Before today it was at 39 days. Now it’s at 0. Although I am in disputes with Bobak on whether it count’s if Jeb[ediah Kerman] was piloting.

W: How were you feeling just before you stepped outside of you Mk1-85 capsule?

B: Well… I’d have to say somewhere between a heart attack and eating cakes on Life Day. I was looking out into the black. Seeing stars so clear, so bright. But thinking that I was about to step out of a perfectly good space capsule.

W: That’s quite a combination, Bob. Was there the possibility you wouldn’t be able to take that step?

B: Heh. None. None whatsoever. There was a lot of valuable (and expensive) equipment we brought up with us. And while we could have radioed some of that data back, the best results needed to ride home with us.

W: That is a powerful commitment to science.

B: Yep. But don’t get me wrong. It wasn’t just about the science. I mean… it wasn’t even about being first, my shouts to the contrary. I was, literally, standing at the doorway to discovery. I don’t think the Moho crashing would have kept me away.

W: Once that step was taken. Once you were “spacewalking”, what was it like?

B: Jeb is always describing weightlessness as like dreaming about flying. But he’s wrong. When I stepped out of that capsule. I really was flying. I pushed off from the doorway and when I turned around, I was flying, all by myself above the most beautiful planet I think I’ll ever see. That feeling… *sigh* I was very blessed to have had that opportunity. If I never go back into space again, that will have been enough.

W: Going back to our first question, how did Moho I compare with Kerbin II?

B: Well… *smiles* I went higher this time. But all teasing aside, the different between the two is night and day. Which I happened to see twice in an hour. The Moho I has a huge push, but it’s smooth. Ramps up slowly. And the Mk1-85 is so roomy in comparison. The only complaint I’d have is the freeze dried ice cream. Val[entina Kerman]’s idea. She loves it, but I thought it was terrible.

W: Did having another kerbonaut change the experience?

B: Not really. Kerbin II was pretty automated. It goes up, I steer a little, and it goes down. Jeb, for as talkative as he is on the ground, doesn’t say much when he’s flying. So I was again pretty much left to myself.

W: What’s next for the Moho program?

B: We’ll be testing high Kerbin orbit next. And endurance. Long time flights. It’s a day to Mun on the best trajectories we can calculate, so we need to make sure that our technology will keep going that long.

Moho – Capsule and Upper Stage

Contributed by Linus Kerman, Head of Applied Science

The Moho series of rockets are designed to have a single multipurpose command capsule that will be able to be used for a multitude of low Kerbin orbit missions. The capsule itself is composed of the Mk1 Command Pod, the Mk1-85 Mobile Orbital Laboratory Extension, and an upper stage booster for orbital circularization, altitude change, and de-orbit.

The Mk1 pod is being brought over from its successful service missions on the Kerbin program. While the Kerbal Space Center is working on designs for a fully modern command service module in the future, the Mk1 has been too good of a capsule to retire yet. It continues to have a KER guidance chip, life support for several days, reaction control systems. An addition to the Mk1 is a flight reaction control systems (RCS) integrated into the parachute. This allows the capsule to change directions and all three dimensions using monopropellant.

The new Mk1-85, nicknamed the “Backseat” by Bill Kerman and Bob Kerman, in an extension to the Mk1. Fusing the two together, the Moho capsule can hold two kerbals comfortably for up to 15 days. The Backseat is has its own hatch to for its kerbonaut to enter and exit on EVA [extra-vehicular activity]. Because of the backseats great size, it allows both itself and the Mk1 to cycle their cabins oxygen supply into holding tanks to allow exits into space. The Mk1-85 also has integrated monopropellant RCS to aid in steering. Lastly, while Kerbal Space Center is working on using solar technology in the future to power our space craft, the Mk1-85 includes a simple generator that will convert monopropellant into electricity for extended flights.

The upper stage of the Moho is a single mid-stack 1.25 m liquid fuel oxygen rocket. The engine attacked to the stack is our new LV-T909. This small engine has a huge thrust when in the upper atmosphere or space. This allows the Moho to be able to get more speed and burn time from the same amount of fuel than the larger LV-T series engines we’ve used in the past. The upper stage also can include a small service bay to store experiments, sensitive equipment, or other vital supplies.

The Moho capsule and upper stage combine to make a two kerbal vessel that will be able to handle any job we ask of it.

[Guest]

I like your writing style, makes me wish I'd actually written my Project Mun reports as a narrative.

I didn't because I'm lazy. You however, are clearly not lazy.

Keep up the good work, also, those mission patches are sweet!

[Daelkyr]

2 hours ago, MailletC said:

I like your writing style, makes me wish I'd actually written my Project Mun reports as a narrative.

I didn't because I'm lazy. You however, are clearly not lazy.

Keep up the good work, also, those mission patches are sweet!

Thanks for the kind words. I'll have to look at your mission reports. The patches are something I haven't really tried before, but then seem to be popular. 

[RocketSquid]

What mod adds the 1.85 M parts?

[Daelkyr]

1 hour ago, RocketSquid said:

What mod adds the 1.85 M parts?

HGR 1.875 Parts by Oinkerman. I love them more than is proper. 

[Angelo Kerman]

This is a fantastic read, and inspiring for me to do somw more work on the MOLE. I have a mini science lab in mind (the actual Mark One Laboratory Extension) and well, something else. Definitely following this one!

[Chemp]

You are the proof that not every game needs an "official" storyline. Great to read, your posts are a constant reminder that there is this little thing called imagination that makes all the difference.

 

[Daelkyr]

Thanks for the kind words @Angel-125 @Chemp 

I'll be hhonest, I hit a small block with Moho II. I know what I want to say be it just doesn't come out well on the page. Hopefully I can get it done today.