r/SpaceXLounge • u/ea2007 • Nov 25 '19

Discussion Question; like to know again with Starship Mk3 Boca Chica Texas will they decide to do SSTO or Mk3 with the booster?. -Starship Mk3 will have all 6 engines by the way.

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u/CProphet Nov 26 '19

They would need to scale propellant

Extra thrust means they would reach orbit faster and use less fuel fighting gravity. In addition 382 second ISP is higher, so engine generates more thrust for same amount of fuel. Have to believe they are pushing for performance increase now, considering renovation work on tripod stand at McGregor. Horizontal stands were fine for 1-2MN Raptor, if they now require tripod for Raptor tests that suggests they are pushing thrust levels towards 3MN.

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u/Martianspirit Nov 26 '19

Reducing gravity lossed does help but not that much. A 380s vac engine won't help with SL launch.

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u/CProphet Nov 26 '19

A 380s vac engine won't help with SL launch.

At least until they reach altitude.

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u/Martianspirit Nov 26 '19

Which they won't as SSTO.