aSpIrM Static Fire Test and Test Launch

Static Fire Test:

We had modified the rocket, because we need it to carry payload. We want to emulate the launch of Iridium satellites. Well, the sats need to go somewhere and the standard model F9 design by SpaceX does not have a payload bay behind the nose cone, but harbors the parachute. So we had to make sure that our modifications allowed for proper stage separation and deployment of the recovery parachute (watch movie).

test satellites mounted on top of rocket

Test Launch

Legal restrictions do not allow us to use the motor recommended by SpaceX, so we chose a C6-3 propellant. We were not sure whether it would provide enough lift to allow for stage separation and deployment of the recovery parachute. The F9 is quite heavy, and we had also hidden an Easter egg under the nose cone: our dummy dispenser and ten Iridia satellites for Launch 1 served as patient passengers, adding another few grams (watch test flight).