Beyond: Kerbalkind's History of Space Exploration

[Royalswissarmyknife]

19 minutes ago, Kerbalsaurus said:

You’re both onto it.

A mission to prove Dres is real.

Edit: The forums duplicated this like 10 times.

Edited December 16, 2023 by Royalswissarmyknife

[TwoCalories]

Also, I don't mean to be snoopy or anything, but judging from @Royalswissarmyknife's newly uploaded rocket to KerbalX, it seems there may be new developments at KiwiTech...?

KerbalX - Novera US-1"Hopper"

[Royalswissarmyknife]

13 minutes ago, TwoCalories said:

Also, I don't mean to be snoopy or anything, but judging from @Royalswissarmyknife's newly uploaded rocket to KerbalX, it seems there may be new developments at KiwiTech...?

KerbalX - Novera US-1"Hopper"

People seem to always know when space company's are making water towers in Texas at the KSC!

[Kerbalsaurus]

13 minutes ago, TwoCalories said:

Also, I don't mean to be snoopy or anything, but judging from @Royalswissarmyknife's newly uploaded rocket to KerbalX, it seems there may be new developments at KiwiTech...?

KerbalX - Novera US-1"Hopper"

Yes, KiwiTech has been doing some development at their facilities. However, Beyond's plate is currently full right now, so expect the first test launch of the Novera US-1 sometime next year (both in game and in real life).

[Kerbalsaurus]

PIONEER 2 - YEAR 3, DAY 395

It's just me and you and your friend Eve...

MISSION OBJECTIVE: Orbit Gilly

LAUNCH VEHICLE: Reusable Booster System

We return to Kerbin with the launch of Pioneer 2! Much like Explorer 2, Pioneer 2 will orbit another planet's moon. The moon in question is Eve's moon, Gilly. Now, Gilly's origins are uncertain. Technically a moon shouldn't exist that close to Kerbol. Yet, here we have Gilly. Pioneer 2 will perform research in Gilly's orbit, from surface observation to gravity relations. Pretty cool stuff. And, this will be the first interplanetary mission launched on an RBS. While the RBS itself won't go interplanetary, this does prove that it does have capabilities to launch payloads to places other than Kerman Station.

"Liftoff on Pioneer 2!" - King Kerman

"Go for orbital insertion burn." - Bobak Kerman (Flight Director)

Once Pioneer 2 enters orbit, the RBS is detached and heads back to Kerbin, where it lands safely (I thought I got a screenshot, but I guess I didn't press the f1 key hard enough). Now, Pioneer 2 begins its journey to Eve, which would be easy if the Mun didn't constantly get in the way! After some fiddling with the maneuver, Pioneer 2 is finally ready to head off to Eve.

And now... we wait. For over 200 days. Anybody got a deck of cards?

Edited March 14 by Kerbalsaurus

[Kimera Industries]

I believe Gilly was placed there as an act of mercy... a small consolation, a source of fuel, around the hardest planet in the solar system.

Eve was my second guess after Duna.  

[Kerbalsaurus]

13 minutes ago, Kimera Industries said:

I believe Gilly was placed there as an act of mercy... a small consolation, a source of fuel, around the hardest planet in the solar system.

Eve was my second guess after Duna.  

Well, we already have a probe off to Ike! It’ll probably be the first update of new year.

[TwoCalories]

22 minutes ago, Kimera Industries said:

I believe Gilly was placed there as an act of mercy... a small consolation, a source of fuel, around the hardest planet in the solar system.

Eve and Gilly are like Yin and Yang. One is the easiest to land on, but the hardest to get to (it's SOI doesn't even exist lol) and one is easy to land on, but you will never come back.

[Kimera Industries]

11 minutes ago, TwoCalories said:

Eve and Gilly are like Yin and Yang. One is the easiest to land on, but the hardest to get to (it's SOI doesn't even exist lol) and one is easy to land on, but you will never come back.

You don't get an encounter with Gilly, you rendezvous with it. You don't land on it, you dock with it. You don't crash into it, it bumps into you.

[Kerbalsaurus]

AURORA 3 - YEAR3, DAY 399

Ice cream planet...

CREW

• COMMANDER: Stamon Kerman
• MEV-2 PILOT: Adburry Kerman
• MISSION SPECIALIST: Coremy Kerman

For the past week, Aurora 3 has just been coasting through space. Nothin' much to it. Just blackness as far as the eye can see. Oh, and Minmus. The crew watched everyday as Minmus got closer and closer, with Adburry remarking that he could almost taste the moon. Just a few hours after entering Minmus's SOI, Aurora 3 prepares for the circularization burn.

"Aurora 3, you are go for Minmus Orbital Insertion." - Gene Kerman (CAPCOM)

"Rog, KSC. Firing RE-L10 retrograde." - Stamon Kerman

"Apoapsis and periapsis at 30km, go for MECO." - Gene Kermam

"Copy, MECO. Welcome to Minmus, KSC." - Coremy Kerman

Picture shot out of the window of the AMH.

After one orbit of Minmus, Adburry suits up and prepare to leave the spacecraft. Since most of the science experiments are on the lander, this will be more of a symbolic EVA than one for science, but still.

Picture containing the entire Kerbin system, with Minmus below, Kerbin in the center, and the Mun high above.

"Alright KSC, hatch is closed and we're inside of the lander." - Adburry Kerman

"Copy that Aurora 3, you are go for undocking." - Gene Kerman

"Copy, undocking." - Adburry Kerman

"We are now free floating, KSC!" - Coremy Kerman

"Good luck down there fellas, and remember to bring me back a Minmus rock." - Stamon Kerman

"Yeah, no promises Stamon. Best you'll probably get is an atom or two." - Adburry Kerman

"Alright KSC, suicide burn going good. Keep an eye on that altimeter Coremy." - Adburry Kerman

"Alright, 100 meters above the surface, velocity good." Coremy Kerman

Everyone is mission control holds their breath.

"80... 60... 50..."

40...

30...

20...

10...

5...

"Contact!"

Mission control explodes! Aurora 3 now sits on Minmus! A textbook landing! The crew themselves breath a sigh of relief, and fist bumps are exchanged in the lander. The crew spend another 30 minutes in the lander, performing science and suiting up, before getting ready for the first EVA on Minmus's surface in a long time.

"Alright, I'm outside the hatch now, stepping down the ladder." - Adburry Kerman

"Alright, I'm at the bottom of the ladder KSC. Ready to step off." - Adburry Kerman

"We copy, Adburry." - Gene Kerman

"Hello, Minmus! Missed us?" - Adburry Kerman

We've still got it! A Kerbal once again stands on the surface of Minmus! Adburry does some walking around before turning around to help Coremy step down the ladder.

"Alright Coremy, watch your step." - Adburry Kerman

"I know what I'm doing." - Coremy Kerman

Adburry and Coremy Kerman posing for the ceremonious flag picture.

Once the ceremonious stuff is over, the flag is planted and poetic words are said, it's time for the fun part to begin. Immediately after, the crew head over to the MEV-2 and gather supplies from its cargo bay. Scientists wanted to get a better look at Minmus long term, and the experiments aboard the MEV-2 just don't cut it. So, they devised a new type of experiment, and called it deployable science. In the lander are a few science stations and solar panels, which will remain operable long after the crew leave Minmus. We can show you haw they look now.

"Hey, pretty nifty!" - Adburry Kerman

And, Adburry happened to bring his golf clubs along too. Actually, he only brought a driver but still. he claims it was for science, but he and Bob have been betting on each other quite a lot in recent times.

The next hour is spent on the surface working at the science stations. However, time eventually runs out and the crew must return to the lander.

The crew spend another 4 days on board the lander. until it comes time for the second EVA. Although less exciting and ceremonious, it will still be important for research into Minmus's conditions.

And finally, just three days later, it's time to head back to Kerbin. The crew, while saddened to be leaving Minmus, also look forward to finally being able to experience full gravity again. From now on, the pictures will kind of speak for themselves.

"Welcome back! Any of those rocks I asked for?" - Stamon Kerman

"No, but here are some atoms." - Adburry Kerman

"Welcome back to Kerbin, Aurora 3." - Gene Kerman

"Chutes deployed!" - Stamon Kerman

"It's good to be home!" - Adburry Kerman

After 3 whole weeks in space, the crew have finally returned to Kerbin! And when they get back onto the mainland, they all recieve a heroes welcome! Also, the data brought back from this mission is immaculate. I'm talkin' samples, materials, ancient artifacts. Wait, scratch that last one. It's truly an exciting time for Beyond! The future is bright!

***

I'd like to let everyone know that Beyond and all of my other threads are going on a brief hiatus for the holidays, so don't expect an update until the new year. Happy holidays!

Edited March 14 by Kerbalsaurus

[Kimera Industries]

Happy holidays! The visuals are stunning!  

[Royalswissarmyknife]

Kiwi Tech Novera Update

 

For the majority of Kerbal kind's presence in space it has been prohibitively expensive to launch Payloads into space.

Although on Year 3, Day 182 that all changed when the worlds first reusable rocket that could launch a significant amount of mass to orbit was launched.

This seemingly small feat completely changed the game for private company's looking to launch Station Modules, Commsats and even Crewed vehicles!

Although the cost to launch small and medium payloads has decreased there has been no change in heavy lift launchers.

This is why we have decided to develop the Novera rocket

Wait but why do we even need cheaper heavy lift launchers?

Well There's multiple reasons.

One of the reasons is to establish a permanent presence on the Mun and Minmus. Another reason is to allow future stations to become much larger then the aging Kerman station. 

Now how do you achieve a rocket that can be cheaply reused and have a high cadence?

Well we can start with a 2 stage reusable rocket. The first stage can use Technologies' similar to already existing reusable rockets.

The second stage is a much harder challenge as you have to design it to manage the insane amount of heat from returning from the Mun. To solve the heat problems we have developed an actively cooled heatshield using the propellants as coolant. we also put fins on the top to increase stability while not melting off like A.I.R.B.R.A.K.E.S would.

So far development has gone along well so well in fact that we should have an upper stage test article ready to fly early next year.

Now its time for some basic details about this rocket!

Its payload to LKO with full reuse is 55 Tons. Its payload without reuse is 110 Tons. It can also utilize orbital refueling to increase its capability's further.

Oh one last thing! Say hello to Novera!

(Novera Concept art.)

Edited December 19, 2023 by Royalswissarmyknife

[TwoCalories]

9 hours ago, Royalswissarmyknife said:

Kiwi Tech Novera Update

 

For the majority of Kerbal kind's presence in space it has been prohibitively expensive to launch Payloads into space.

Although on Year 3, Day 182 that all changed when the worlds first reusable rocket that could launch a significant amount of mass to orbit was launched.

This seemingly small feat completely changed the game for private company's looking to launch Station Modules, Commsats and even Crewed vehicles!

Although the cost to launch small and medium payloads has decreased there has been no change in heavy lift launchers.

This is why we have decided to develop the Novera rocket

Wait but why do we even need cheaper heavy lift launchers?

Well There's multiple reasons.

One of the reasons is to establish a permanent presence on the Mun and Minmus. Another reason is to allow future stations to become much larger then the aging Kerman station. 

Now how do you achieve a rocket that can be cheaply reused and have a high cadence?

Well we can start with a 2 stage reusable rocket. The first stage can use Technologies' similar to already existing reusable rockets.

The second stage is a much harder challenge as you have to design it to manage the insane amount of heat from returning from the Mun. To solve the heat problems we have developed an actively cooled heatshield using the propellants as coolant. we also put fins on the top to increase stability while not melting off like A.I.R.B.R.A.K.E.S would.

So far development has gone along well so well in fact that we should have an upper stage test article ready to fly early next year.

Now its time for some basic details about this rocket!

Its payload to LKO with full reuse is 55 Tons. Its payload without reuse is 110 Tons. It can also utilize orbital refueling to increase its capability's further.

Oh one last thing! Say hello to Novera!

(Novera Concept art.)

Looking good!

[Kimera Industries]

9 hours ago, Royalswissarmyknife said:

This is why we have decided to develop the Novera rocket.

Woah, that's awesome! I'm getting a New Glenn vibe here in a really good way.  

[Kerbalsaurus]

12 hours ago, Royalswissarmyknife said:

Kiwi Tech Novera Update

 

For the majority of Kerbal kind's presence in space it has been prohibitively expensive to launch Payloads into space.

Although on Year 3, Day 182 that all changed when the worlds first reusable rocket that could launch a significant amount of mass to orbit was launched.

This seemingly small feat completely changed the game for private company's looking to launch Station Modules, Commsats and even Crewed vehicles!

Although the cost to launch small and medium payloads has decreased there has been no change in heavy lift launchers.

This is why we have decided to develop the Novera rocket

Wait but why do we even need cheaper heavy lift launchers?

Well There's multiple reasons.

One of the reasons is to establish a permanent presence on the Mun and Minmus. Another reason is to allow future stations to become much larger then the aging Kerman station. 

Now how do you achieve a rocket that can be cheaply reused and have a high cadence?

Well we can start with a 2 stage reusable rocket. The first stage can use Technologies' similar to already existing reusable rockets.

The second stage is a much harder challenge as you have to design it to manage the insane amount of heat from returning from the Mun. To solve the heat problems we have developed an actively cooled heatshield using the propellants as coolant. we also put fins on the top to increase stability while not melting off like A.I.R.B.R.A.K.E.S would.

So far development has gone along well so well in fact that we should have an upper stage test article ready to fly early next year.

Now its time for some basic details about this rocket!

Its payload to LKO with full reuse is 55 Tons. Its payload without reuse is 110 Tons. It can also utilize orbital refueling to increase its capability's further.

Oh one last thing! Say hello to Novera!

(Novera Concept art.)

 Now THAT is a rocket. It’s certainly down the line as it’s a bit out of our price range. And technology range. And really everything range. But this will certainly be a great rocket for future missions that can set up complex ISRU plants and bases on the Mun and Minmus, as well hardware for interplanetary missions. We look forward to working with KiwiTech in the near future!

[Royalswissarmyknife]

12 hours ago, Kerbalsaurus said:

 Now THAT is a rocket.

The only rocket that is even comparable to it is the Tendagurensis. And that rocket hasn't launched in years.

Spoiler

They actually have a very similar amount of Thrust at launch.

Could you add more craft from Beyond to KerbalX?

And also add the Libra Orbit to the hanger? Its already there. 

Edited December 20, 2023 by Royalswissarmyknife

[Royalswissarmyknife]

Size comparison of most beyond rockets on KerbalX. (Novera is not on KerbalX yet)

Spoiler

Rockets from left to right: Novera US-1, Kitten II, Apteryx-9, Apteryx-9B, RBS, RBS-C "Capricorn" and Novera.

(Includes rockets that have not launched yet.)

Edited December 20, 2023 by Royalswissarmyknife

[Kerbalsaurus]

@Royalswissarmyknife inspired me to do something I've wanted to do for a while, which is make a size chart for every rocket in Beyond! Now, mind you, this includes every rocket launched so far. Therefore, no concepts or rockets in development are included.

(Left to Right): Astro Rocket (Beyond), Aegyptiacus Rocket (Beyond), Kitten II (Beyond), Apteryx-9 (KiwiTech), Eve I (Beyond), Apteryx-9B (KiwiTech), Reusable Booster System (L00ntech), Eve II (Beyond), Eve III (Beyond), Tendagurensis (Beyond)

[Kimera Industries]

That moment when what you want is a size comparison and you get two.  

[TwoCalories]

I actually never realized the Apetryx-9 had a silver fairing. I guess the lighting in all the photos made it look like a regular plain white one.

[Royalswissarmyknife]

1 hour ago, TwoCalories said:

I actually never realized the Apetryx-9 had a silver fairing. I guess the lighting in all the photos made it look like a regular plain white one.

Depends on the variation. The original Apteryx-9 had a bare metal fairing while Apteryx-9B has a plain white one.

[Watermel00n]

L00nTech's response to the Novera 1

We at L00nTech are very supportive of the decision to declutter space and make space exploration cheaper! The Novera 1 perfectly fills the gap in the heavy launcher segment and should be a perfect addition to Beyond's arsenal. However, it seems that our CEO, Loony Kerman is having a bit of a fit (screaming and tables thrown in the background). Anyways, about the RBS v2... give me that mic peasant! Oh no, he's taken the mic! Oh KiwiTech, you better watch your back... not saying we're competitors but I dare say this reusable launch vehicle town is too small for the both of us!!! *faints* Oh great, he fainted... anyhow, we can't wait for the launch of Novera 1 next year!

[Royalswissarmyknife]

1 hour ago, Watermel00n said:

not saying we're competitors but I dare say this reusable launch vehicle town is too small for the both of us!!!

Just wait until I add parachutes to Apteryx-9!

Spoiler

A fun fact about Novera is that it actually started out smaller then RBS but was made larger during development.

 

[Kerbalsaurus]

5 minutes ago, Royalswissarmyknife said:

Just wait until I add parachutes to Apteryx-9!

  Reveal hidden contents

A fun fact about Novera is that it actually started out smaller then RBS but was made larger during development.

 

Cool, but remember: not a discussion thread. I don’t mind the big giant updates like the Novera update, but little tidbits like this should be kept to a minimum.

Edited December 21, 2023 by Kerbalsaurus
Typos and such.

[SkyFall2489]

On 12/20/2023 at 7:57 PM, Royalswissarmyknife said:

Just wait until I add parachutes to Apteryx-9!

  Hide contents

A fun fact about Novera is that it actually started out smaller then RBS but was made larger during development.

 

Hmm...
Should SkyFall Industries get back to work on its Shuttle? We have plans for our own rocket-only, fully reusable crew vehicle...