Private space travel takes another hit, but isn't doomed.
This is a preview of subscription content, access via your institution
Access options
Subscribe to this journal
Receive 51 print issues and online access
$199.00 per year
only $3.90 per issue
Buy this article
- Purchase on Springer Link
- Instant access to full article PDF
Prices may be subject to local taxes which are calculated during checkout
Additional information
Update: SpaceX have now identified why the two rocket sections didn’t separate. The third test flight had used a new engine, which held small amounts of unburned fuel in its cooling channels after the engine was turned off. This meant that after separation, even though the engine cut out, the bottom stage could produce a bit more thrust, enough to keep moving upwards and stop the stages from successfully separating.
Related links
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Sanderson, K. Falcon 1 blows it again. Nature (2008). https://doi.org/10.1038/news.2008.1008
Published:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/news.2008.1008
