A few days ago, the ULA Vulcan rocket was preparing for its second test launch, which was scheduled to take place today, October 6. That’s how it was; launch of the CERT-2 mission, which can be monitored from Spain was completed successfully, reaching a new certification milestone for the US Space Force. Yes, the Vulcan rocket There are some bugs in this release this may affect the certification process.
Just 39 seconds after the rocket lifted off from Cape Canaveral Space Station’s Space Launch Complex 41 (SLC-41), an anomaly could be seen extending beyond the atmosphere as it ascended its trajectory. One of the side thrusters it seemed throw away some material, causing surprise to the audience.
However, the Vulcan ULA rocket was able to continue its flight without any problems, adjusting its trajectory and successfully completing the mission. Not only the rocket managed to enter the desired orbit, but also the Centaur V upper stage. managed to follow the established maneuver plan, considering the test valid. However, many internet users are pointing out the possible in-flight separation of the SRB nozzle or loss of the nozzle.
Success in Vulcan’s second flight
The launch of this second certification flight (CERT-2) was able to lift off at 7:25 am local time (1:25 pm Spanish Peninsula time) from SLC-41 without any major setbacks. Let us remember that this was the second of two certification flights required by the US Space Force to obtain permission to use the Vulcan in its work. Thus, ULA provides have met “all requirements for certification.”
The next step, ULA explained, is to analyze the data collected from this mission and compare it with the first certification flight to verify that the vehicle actually performs as expected, without additional elements to test. US Space Force You will need to carry out a full assessment to be sure of all this.
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The problem is related to the rocket anomaly. One of the two solid rocket boosters experienced an obvious anomaly during ascent, which was clearly visible from the sky. In addition, two GEM 63XL solid rocket boosters (SRBs) were separated from the Vulcan. almost 30 seconds later belonging timeline is installed by ULA itself before launch.
In the launch broadcast, the company explained that the trajectory was “nominal at all times” which means normality, at least in the early stages of takeoff. But they clarified that this anomaly will be investigated after the completion of CERT-2. “We had SLO #1 under surveillance, so we will go out to observe him after the mission is complete.”
The current theory revolves around the detachment of the nozzle, since it was completely visible. The trail camera images showed a shower of sparks (and the visible detachment of components) as well as the changing plume of smoke that emerged from the accident. Again, This did not prevent a good launch result.
It remains to be seen whether this decision will ultimately impact US Space Force certification. It should be noted that these engines are vital when it comes to achieving the thrust required to propel a spacecraft into orbit. However, the severity of the problem has not been determined, so it is impossible to know how it will influence the US agency’s decision.