Latest SpaceX Advantage is Auto Self-Destruct

[DooKey]

SpaceX has worked with the Air Force to design and deploy a new system that allows their rockets to self-destruct without intervention from a range safety officer. This is an important feature because it will allow rockets to be launched into polar orbit from Cape Canaveral because they won't need to be tracked by radar when launched. Another good reason is that it will allow the rocket more time to make flight corrections before it is destroyed. Finally, SpaceX doesn't need to pay the Air Force for use of personnel and equipment to track the rocket during launch. Overall, this tech will make launches safer and less costly. Good going SpaceX!

Most impressively, the automated system will make it possible for SpaceX to fly multiple boosters at once in a single launch. Later this month, the company plans to debut its Falcon Heavy rocket, which is built on three reusable boosters that will fly back to Earth independently after launch. Rather than having safety officers tracking each booster as they attempt to land, each will rely on their automated systems to destroy them if they go off course.

 

[katanaD]

LOL im still really impressed with seeing 1 booster land itself. seeing all 3 from the heavy land at once. yeah.. thats gonna be cool.

 

[cyclone3d]

Auto self destruct.. cue Dr. Doofenshmirtz

 

[CombatChrisNC]

Auto self destruct.. cue Dr. Doofenshmirtz

Not on topic, but this is about the extent of the show I've seen and it's all I want to see... because it would all be down hill from this high point.

 

[cyclone3d]

Not on topic, but this is about the extent of the show I've seen and it's all I want to see... because it would all be down hill from this high point.

You have no idea on what you are missing out on.

 

[MavericK]

Well, this thread really went off the rails fast.

 

[XenIneX]

Um, they are not actually gonna shoot people into space using these autonomously self destructing rockets are they?

Sure they are.

The self destruct is just a line of detcord running down the side of the rocket. Push the button, and the rocket gently unzips itself like a pair of trousers and vents its contents to atmosphere.

Just stick a few seconds of delay on the detonator. The launch escape system on Dragon 2 will have the the crew an easy half-mile away before the fireworks show starts.


Falcon 9 self-destruct: (It's not the cloud of white; it's the sudden end of the cloud a few seconds later.)

 

[cyclone3d]

Um, they are not actually gonna shoot people into space using these autonomously self destructing rockets are they?

Really????

The self destruct is mainly for IF the boosters go off course when they are returning to land AFTER that have disconnected from the rocket. It is an extra measure to prevent them from landing/causing damage where they shouldn't.

Most impressively, the automated system will make it possible for SpaceX to fly multiple boosters at once in a single launch. Later this month, the company plans to debut its Falcon Heavy rocket, which is built on three reusable boosters that will fly back to Earth independently after launch. Rather than having safety officers tracking each booster as they attempt to land, each will rely on their automated systems to destroy them if they go off course.

It can be used for if something goes wring at launch time as well... but the booster part of it is more relevant IMHO.

 

[EvilWays]

Destruct sequence one. Code 11A.

 

[heatlesssun]

Destruct sequence one. Code 11A.