As you note here, the “failure” mode on Starship was already anticipated (three years ago now) and design changes are in the works. Interesting that SpaceX seems to nail the problems ahead of time....
By the time we get to Starship V3, the future history of humanity will be on a completely new course.
Seems strange SpaceX launches knowing there are likely failure points but does it anyway to make sure. Usually they have already implemented corrective changes for next vehicle but it's good to check whether they're necessary.
The USMC once explored the idea of using a high atmosphere to low orbit vehicle for troop movement. They liked the idea of being able to put marines anywhere on Earth in a few hours. That's what I thought of when you described the atmosphere skipping transport. Thanks for the write up!
As you note here, the “failure” mode on Starship was already anticipated (three years ago now) and design changes are in the works. Interesting that SpaceX seems to nail the problems ahead of time....
By the time we get to Starship V3, the future history of humanity will be on a completely new course.
Seems strange SpaceX launches knowing there are likely failure points but does it anyway to make sure. Usually they have already implemented corrective changes for next vehicle but it's good to check whether they're necessary.
Data, it's all about gathering data for rapid iteration. Really remarkable.
Great read, Chris. Really enjoyed the breakdown of Starship as I have only really followed through headlines. Exciting times for space travel again!
The USMC once explored the idea of using a high atmosphere to low orbit vehicle for troop movement. They liked the idea of being able to put marines anywhere on Earth in a few hours. That's what I thought of when you described the atmosphere skipping transport. Thanks for the write up!