While the NX-01 was still undergoing tests in space, the next iteration would roll out to the KSC runway. This iteration of the design tried to merge conventional components with saucer shape.
“It looks like the Manley, but then on a spike,” Arlan commented. “The central core houses propulsion, cargo, and a sizeable amount of life support.” Dobal continued, not responding to his teammate’s jab. Together with Commander Thompwin they would be the first operational mission of the NX-02. Also, the first to take off from Kerbin using a Gravitic engine.
“It feels weird to be off-centered,” Arlan commented. “Why do you think I gave up the commander’s chair,” Thompwin grinned. “At least my view is forward.” but fortunately the camera in the forward-looking docking port provided good visibility. “Powering VTOL mode, ascending to 200 meters, then activate the crazy mode,” Dobal said.
“I’m reading power glitches,” Dobal reported. “Shutting down the port accelerator.” Later analysis would learn that raising the weight of the NX-02 by 5-tons, compared to the NX-01 meant it would need more power. The lack of battery storage also had impacted their ability to cope with this.
They did make it to orbit, by juggling power, gravity waves, and toggling systems on and off. Not a record to orbit though, but at less than 1% of the fuel, the most efficient launch ever.
“Mission command here, sorry about the power problems. On the bright side, the new static dischargers seem to work just fine. You are still go for the mission!” The team was happy to hear that, they had discovered that if they would tolerate a 1-minute blackout, the gravity waves would complete their generation, and systems would restore. Not ideal but good enough. “I wish Camdous had finished that new fusion generator,” Arlan said.
Next up was a 20-minute “burn” for Duna, which resulted in a new record to reach the soi of Kerbin in less than an hour. They then powered down the main systems and moved to the crew quarters.
“The ShadowMage class is great, but this is one hell of a comfortable ride,” Thompwin said. “Language,” the grey Nestor of the team replied. “Do you reckon all new ships will have such quarters?” Arlan wondered.
That would be something to find out. For now, they relaxed for their 39 day trip to Duna, catching up with the Linux along the way. Their mission was to restore the Falcon landed at Venn’s Base and then continue the experiments at Cobalt II. With 2 years of supplies on board, they would have plenty of time to discover the secrets of the red planet and perhaps learn more about the Dunatians.
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