5
$\begingroup$

With the Block5 version of Falcon 9 booster soon to be flying, will they be used for the Falcon Heavy, or will they remain a stand alone thing?

First Block 5 on the test stand in McGregor

Improve this question
$\endgroup$
1

1 Answer 1

Reset to default
6
$\begingroup$

Yes, the first Falcon Heavy flight was really not a great test of the concept, since it was using Block 3 side boosters and was a one off center core.

The plan is to use Block 5 boosters for all components. Two side boosters, center core, and second stage will all be built to the Block 5 on the future Falcon Heavy boosters.

There will be differences between the side boosters and a standard Falcon 9 single stick, but mostly minor. Consider that in the first case of a Falcon Heavy the two side boosters were used Block 3 boosters, modified after the fact to be side boosters. This indicates that the differences are not deeply embedded in the design if it can be easily modified.

The center core will be a different design, strengthened to support its mission and Gwynne Shotwell has said that they will make it as a different 'model'. But the engines, and overall standard will be the Block 5 approach.

I think one important point to clarify in this context is that Block 5 is sort of a standard for a bunch of upgrades to the Falcon 9 first stage booster as opposed to an exact vehicle design.

The side boosters will be very close to that, with minor changes for use as side boosters, nose cone for example.

The center core will be a different vehicle, but still following the Block 5 standard, just modified for a different mission.

Improve this answer
$\endgroup$
7
  • $\begingroup$ With that configuration, would that mean the FH could be man rated? $\endgroup$
    – CBredlow
    Feb 27, 2018 at 19:53
  • 1
    $\begingroup$ Could. But Musk said they won't spend the time/money to fill out the NASA paperwork. Spend it on BFR instead. $\endgroup$
    – geoffc
    Feb 27, 2018 at 19:59
  • $\begingroup$ Will center core still have to be structurally different from the side boosters, or are those alterations integrated in Block 5? $\endgroup$
    – Russell Borogove
    Feb 27, 2018 at 21:23
  • $\begingroup$ Different question @RussellBorogove But the center core is different and there will be a block 5 center core. So two types of boosters going forward. 98% will be standard Block 5 boosters. Last few will be Heavy center cores. $\endgroup$
    – geoffc
    Feb 27, 2018 at 21:26
  • $\begingroup$ @geoffc I think you should clarify your answer. Yes in future FH launches all three boosters will be based on the F9 Block 5 core but none of them will be stock block 5 boosters. The side cores have a nose cone added and the Ocotoweb is reinforced to have attachment points for the center booster. The Center booster is even further customized with a reinforced core structure. It's similar to some stages having Titanium grid fins vs Aluminum ones or with or without landing legs but even the side boosters require modifications of a standard F9. $\endgroup$
    – Evan Steinbrenner
    Feb 27, 2018 at 22:52

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.