Rendezvous and Docking at Max Q

[Enigma Star]

The challenge is this--perform a successful rendezvous and docking DURING THE LAUNCH INTERFACE.

For bonus points, perform the docking while AT MAXIMUM DYNAMIC PRESSURE (Max Q).

For the ultimate challenge--de-orbit a second stage vehicle, intercept this vehicle with the launch vehicle and dock during launch, then drop the first stage and use the docked second stage to continue launching into orbit.

If even that isn't enough--achieve this on another planet--particularly Eve or Tylo.

[Enigma Star]

Just to be clear—it is acceptable to perform a stage separation early, then have that stage catch up to the rocket and dock (as long as separation is complete before attempting to re-dock).

Better still is to dock components from two separate but simultaneous launches.

Best of all is to have a launching and a re-entering component dock in midair and continue on the launch trajectory.

Automation for trajectories is acceptable, since it would be kinda hard to steer two flying vessels at the same time manually.

 

[Superfluous J]

I look forward to your own entry that proves this is possible.

[Bej Kerman]

28 minutes ago, Superfluous J said:

I look forward to your own entry that proves this is possible.

See you after suspended animation.

[doggonemess]

I would be very impressed to see this. One issue - you can't switch vessels in the atmosphere. I'm not sure how this would be accomplished.

[jimmymcgoochie]

Pretty sure that in order to post a challenge, you have to prove that it’s possible first. Also sounds a lot like Zero-X from Thunderbirds/Captain Scarlet but I would be VERY impressed if anyone could dock horizontally while flying at supersonic speed in the atmosphere!

[ralanboyle]

Suggestion to solve the atmospheric vessel switching issue: 

Fly your ship (or two ships) to the mun. Launch it with only 200-300dv. Launch a second vessel from the same mun location - Rendezvous - Dock - Accelerate to orbit... 

This would be easier than dealing with atmosphere but still very difficult, and possible withing stock mechanics. 

Edit: Hardcore thought here. Do a suborbital launch from kerbin, switching to a new vehicle after the first is launched. Catch it while it;s is out of the atmosphere and dock, then push it into orbit... 

Edited June 3, 2020 by ralanboyle
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