Replicating the Training Flight

[auranaut]

I built the same rocket as in the first  training flight: mk1 command pod, mk16 parachute, and the flea booster.  At least I think it's the same, as the names are different.  When I launch it the parachute always burns up on reentry.  What am I missing here?

[king of nowhere]

Is your rocket flipping? 

The command pod has very low drag. If it falls head first, it keeps accelerating and will go too fast for the parachute. It must fall tail first.

And it's been a long time since i last tried that, so i can't help any more

[Superfluous J]

6 hours ago, auranaut said:

At least I think it's the same, as the names are different

If the names are different it's different. I expect you're using the Hammer when you die, and the Flea when you live.

[auranaut]

I'm using only the Flea.  So I am to work the keys to keep the nose pointed up?  Oh, boy - not sure I can.

[Vanamonde]

It's been a long time since I've run that one, too, but if you launch at an angle instead of straight up, your descent will be more gentle and it will give the atmo more time to slow you, possibly sparing the chute. 

[Superfluous J]

I don't remember the tutorial, do they give you a ship pre-built or do you build it?

If pre-built, maybe it doesn't have a full tank, or the throttle is down (in the VAB, right click the part to see its stats. You can't throttle an SRB in flight like you can a real engine)

[Spricigo]

Well, the craft in the training scenario "Basic Flight"  is a flea with 98 units of solid fuel. I assume your is full (140 units).

 

 

[auranaut]

Good call.  I was able to survive the flight this way with a whole lot of luck.  It's clear I should pause playing until I at least have a joystick.  Many thanks.

[Vanamonde]

Joysticks are only really useful for aircraft. It's easier to fly rockets with keyboard control. 

[auranaut]

4 hours ago, Vanamonde said:

Joysticks are only really useful for aircraft. It's easier to fly rockets with keyboard control. 

Not with my hands.

[18Watt]

3 minutes ago, auranaut said:

Not with my hands.

In other words, @Vanamonde is wrong.  As a fellow moderator, we rarely get the opportunity to say that, but enjoy it greatly every chance we get.  Which, again, is quite rare.