Virgin Orbit

[Nikxice]

I will go out out on a limb and say that the 747 has enough clearance to deal with a RUD from the rocket before they light it up.

Then of course there's always a risk to the 747 crew before the drop. Solid propellant would more stable and safer to work with, but liquid is more efficient for achieving orbit. Beyond test firing the LauncherOne rocket, I wonder what prior vibration and load testing Virgin has performed. Thinking back to the liquid oxygen tank strut failure several years ago on the upper stage of a F9.

 

[e-FTW]

Get the good stuff from Scott!

 

[mspohr]

Virgin Orbit shuts down after bankruptcy sales

Bankrupt rocket company Virgin Orbit sold its assets and equipment to a trio of aerospace companies in an auction.

www.cnbc.com

Bankrupt rocket company Virgin Orbit is shutting down after selling its facility leases and equipment to a trio of aerospace companies in an auction, the company confirmed on Tuesday.

“As Virgin Orbit embarks on this path, the management and employees would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to all stakeholders,” the company said in a statement.