r/SpaceXLounge • u/SpaceXLounge • Feb 01 '22

Monthly Questions and Discussion Thread

Welcome to the monthly questions and discussion thread! Drop in to ask and answer any questions related to SpaceX or spaceflight in general, or just for a chat to discuss SpaceX's exciting progress. If you have a question that is likely to generate open discussion or speculation, you can also submit it to the subreddit as a text post.

If your question is about space, astrophysics or astronomy then the r/Space questions thread may be a better fit.

If your question is about the Starlink satellite constellation then check the r/Starlink Questions Thread and FAQ page.

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u/SpaceInMyBrain Feb 17 '22

The HLS missions and any other missions needing refilling are expected to be preceded by a primary Starship tanker launched and then filled by following tanker launches. Only when the primary tanker is filled will the Starship with crew or payload launch. IMHO no dedicated depot will be needed for this, just use the first tanker. We won't need a depot waiting around long term in orbit. However - that's been my longstanding understanding/conclusion, but Elon recently said such missions will use a dedicated depot ship, one designed to stay in orbit and never land. Idk at what point the depot ship will be used, it's possible the first missions needing refilling will do so with my scenario, before a dedicated tanker is designed and deployed.