Main Engine Cut Off

Getting closer to the first launch of Electron. Nice video at the link, too.

During a NASA TV broadcast today, a short video of a Dragon 2 parachute drop test was shown. Someone helpful posted a link to some screenshots over on the r/spacex thread.

This article is a great rundown of how we got to this point, with far too many acronyms and docking systems.

SpaceX posted an absolutely fantastic time-lapse video of IDA-2 being removed from Dragon’s trunk. IDA-2 is set for installation bright and early tomorrow morning (6:30 AM Eastern).

Next up, on-orbit servicing and repairs.

While the majority of this SpaceNews article by Jeff Foust is focused on Congressional wrestling over how much money Europa Clipper should receive, there are a few other tidbits of interest.

Lighter structures mean more payload. More durable structures mean more reuse. There have been several rumors about BFR using composites, and this certainly points in that direction.

One of the programs that could be affected is the one funding development of the AR1, BE-4, and ACES. Blue Origin isn’t going to stop their work on the BE-4, because that’s paramount to their own ambitions, but the AR1 work could be hit hard.

NASA’s Commercial Crew Twitter account tweeted a time-lapse video of the crew access arm and white room being lifted to the top of the tower at SLC-41.

Good rundown of SpaceX’s remaining 2016 manifest by Peter B. de Selding of SpaceNews. After a great launch and landing last night, SpaceX is planning for 9 more launches this year.