Discussion SpaceX "DragonFly" RLV

[ISProgram]

SpaceX planning propulsive Dragon landing tests...

2.1.1 DragonFly RLV
The DragonFly RLV is the Dragon capsule with an integrated trunk (which may or may not be attached during a DragonFly operation) and up to four steel landing legs. The Dragon capsule primary structure consists of a welded aluminum pressure vessel, primary heat shield support structure, back shell thermal protection system support structure, and a nosecone. This structure supports secondary structures including eight SuperDraco engines (two in each of the four modules [quadrants]), propellant tanks, pressurant tanks, parachute system, and necessary avionics. The propulsion system includes four self‐contained quadrants with independent sets of propellant tanks for system redundancy. The SuperDraco engine uses a fuel‐centered injector to provide appropriate performance for the application. It is also designed to seal off both fuel and oxidizer from the combustion chamber, enabling operation with fast shut‐off and limited propellant “dribble” volumes.
The DragonFly RLV weighs approximately 14,000 pounds (lbs) un‐fueled, with a height of 17 ft and a base width of 13 ft. Each pair of SuperDraco engines (eight total engines) are mounted to a monolithic aluminum bracket. This bracket is connected to the pressure vessel with three mounts.

Draft Environmental Assessment for Issuing an Experimental Permit to SpaceX for Operation of the Dragon Fly Vehicle at the McGregor Test Site, Texas, May 2014

http://www.faa.gov/about/office_org.../media/20140513_DragonFly_DraftEA(Public).pdf

http://www.faa.gov/about/office_org/headquarters_offices/ast/environmental/review/permits/

A equivalent NSF thread...

 

[ISProgram]

From NSF: FAA moves closer to SpaceX permit for DragonFly testing.

 

[SanderBuruma]

I think we're one step closer to sending our marines to defeat emperor zurg using this for drop-pod applications.

 

[MaverickSawyer]

I think we're one step closer to sending our marines to defeat emperor zurg using this for drop-pod applications.

I prefer the SOEIV, but whatever floats your boat... or deploys your Marines.

 

[Pipcard]

 

[IronRain]

Not entirely sure if this is the right place to post this, but:

Dragon V2 Unveil Thursday, May 29th, 2014 at 10:00 PM EDT on spacex
On Thursday, May 29, 2014, SpaceX will reveal Dragon V2 - SpaceX's next generation spacecraft designed to carry astronauts to space. The Unveil will be webcast LIVE beginning at 7:00 p.m. PT.