SpaceX to launch Intuitive Machines lander Feb. 14 on 2nd try for NASA's commercial moon program

[edwest4]

SpaceX to launch Intuitive Machines lander Feb. 14 on 2nd try for NASA's commercial moon program

Liftoff of the IM-1 mission is scheduled for 12:57 a.m. ET on Wednesday (Feb. 14).

www.space.com

 

[publiusr]

Some fueling issues---not using hypergolics, as I understand it. The lander itself is methalox.

Are payload shrouds filled with pure nitrogen gas so as to reduce fire risks?

 

[Byeman]

Some fueling issues---not using hypergolics, as I understand it. The lander itself is methalox.

Are payload shrouds filled with pure nitrogen gas so as to reduce fire risks?

They have conditioned air blowing into them continuously from the time of leaving the spacecraft processing facility until just before launch vehicle propellant loading in the countdown and then it is changed to conditioned GN2.

 

[edwest4]

Private US spacecraft enters orbit around the moon ahead of landing attempt

A private U.S. lunar lander is in orbit around the moon, a day before it will attempt to land on the surface

abcnews.go.com