Why did the Falcon 9 go from a 3x3 configuration to a ring of 8 around a central engine? Was there some sort of aerodynamical advantage to be found or something?
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Falcon_9_v1.1
$\begingroup$
$\endgroup$
1
asked Jun 14, 2023 at 1:40
-
$\begingroup$ I thought I remembered reading about some improvement for single and double engine-out events, remaining thrust would be closer to the center, but I can't find anything about that nor argue it geometrically. $\endgroup$– uhohCommented Jun 16, 2023 at 0:19
Add a comment
|
1 Answer
$\begingroup$
$\endgroup$
3
the main reason is simplicity. in a grid, you have 4 way symmetry. with the ring, you have 8 way symmetry. this makes it so all your engine mounting parts are the same, while before your corners and edges needed different parts.
-
4$\begingroup$ Do you have any evidence stating that is why SpaceX made the change? $\endgroup$ Commented Jun 14, 2023 at 11:35
-
2$\begingroup$ blogs.nasa.gov/spacex/2014/04/18/meet-the-octaweb says reduces weight and streamlines manufacturing $\endgroup$ Commented Jun 14, 2023 at 16:09
-
9$\begingroup$ Consider editing that in to your answer. $\endgroup$ Commented Jun 14, 2023 at 16:12