SpaceX (general discussion)

[C0de.R.E.A.M.]

Too heavy and too expensive. No need to build rockets like bridges. And when has a launch vehicle structurally failed or landing legs stove in the sides of a tank?

I am inclined to think that added complexity of cluster tankage can create more problems than it solves. Or does it?

 

[Josh_TN]

I assume you realize that is a hell of reach for a number technical and historical reasons…

That’s kinda like saying “who makes a three engined airplane?” And answering with Ju-52…

ETA: or more like “if you liked the movie ‘Twisters’, you’ll love ‘Gone with the Wind’!”.

 

[_Del_]

SpaceX has apparently been tapped to return Butch and Sunny "as soon as possible".

https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/28/science/musk-spacex-trump-nasa.html

 

[Rhinocrates]

aim9xray:

Deflation

Detumescence?

 

[Byeman]

I am inclined to think that added complexity of cluster tankage can create more problems than it solves. Or does it?

Saturn I used clustered tanks but that was for expediency.

 

[Byeman]

National Museum of the United States Air Force. 1989(?) Air compressor for the Atlas A on display failed and the rocket developed a severe case of "limpus pudis". (Or RUD - Rapid Unscheduled Deflation).

In flight. Several Atlas had collapsed on the ground.

View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=imkdz63agHY

 

[aim9xray]

aim9xray:
Deflation
Detumescence?

You might think so, but I couldn't possibly comment.

 

[publiusr]

I am inclined to think that added complexity of cluster tankage can create more problems than it solves. Or does it?

It would allow wider booster cores to still be rail/road transportable.

In fact, you see more and more SPMTs (self propelled modular transporters) on the road.

Less solid augmentation and more OTRAG.

Single core not enough--attach a rocket module with this propellant and that engine.

Even nukes are dial a yield.

 

[Byeman]

In fact, you see more and more SPMTs (self propelled modular transporters) on the road.
.

No, SPMTs are not for long distances. SPMTs are for wide objects anyway. And water transport or build on site take care of the size iusse.

Less solid augmentation and more OTRAG.

OTRAG wasn't going to work
Solids are cheaper.

Single core not enough--attach a rocket module with this propellant and that engine.

No, just make the rocket cheap and reusable and then costs are low enough to fly small payloads. No need to change things

Even nukes are dial a yield.

Not at all. it makes no sense to use on a weapons system.

1950's, 60's and 70's solutions are not longer relevant to space launch issues.