My First Rocket Style SSTO

[Stir_Fry_Beans]

Here was my first attempt at a rocket (or vertical) style SSTO ship. I used mechjeb to pilot it and it has quite a few complexities to it but otherwise works well! I will definitely try to make a simpler and more stable version of it.

With mechjeb you can use the ascent guidance if you change the turn path to around 20% and use the prevent jet flameout option. It can get into a 100 km orbit if used correctly. The craft is 65 parts but needs to be outifitted with lights and solar panels and such. It doesn't have a docking port (yet) and no rcs thrusters.

Sorry for the cruddy picture quality. For whatever reason the screenshots are coming out below my native res.

In the VAB

Just before the launch.

Up and Up.

It uses four R.A.P.I.E.R engines and one Nerva engine.

Orbiting Kerbin!

Re-entry module separated from the rest of the ship.

Success!

The command groups are:

1 to toggle Nerva

2 to switch engine mode

3 to toggle R.A.P.I.E.R's

Here is the download link with MechJeb on it https://www.dropbox.com/s/dp0vk7huh0d8k0u/Winnton%20MK1.craft

And without https://www.dropbox.com/s/bmjlodeg81rop8x/Winnton%20MK1%20NOMJ.craft

I will resume work on this craft after I get my space station going!

Enjoy!

Edited April 5, 2014 by Stir_Fry_Beans

[xoknight]

Pics not working?...

[Stir_Fry_Beans]

I just brought them over to Imgur. Should be working now.

[Jeb Cubed]

I usualy don't like these style of SSTOs, mainly because they are not as visually appealing, but I can't make either type so you did better than I could ever do.

[Stir_Fry_Beans]

These SSTOs tend to look like potatoes, but they are easier to build and control (sorta) than an actual plane SSTO. This really isn't my strong point in craft design but I wanted to make a SSTO and this was something basic. I will try and work on an airplane SSTO after my space station perhaps.

[John Crichton]

Nicely done, will try it out.

I've done a few rocket SSTOs and with some mods you can pull off pretty cool stuff. Adding landing legs is another option.

[Stir_Fry_Beans]

This is my first attempt! It definitely needs some..uhh...refinement!

[Camaron]

Cool. I doubt you need the clamps though.

[Stir_Fry_Beans]

The launch clamps are for throttling up the jets before launch.