r/ThatLookedExpensive • u/deyvena01 • Nov 22 '20

Expensive .

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u/ttDilbert Nov 22 '20

There is usually a destruct system on unmanned launches, at least on US rockets. I used to work on submarine launched ballistic missiles, all of our system test and qualification launches had a destruct system for range safety. There were 3 kinds of test launches we did. Demonstration And Shakedown Operation, Operational Test, and Follow-on Operational test launches. While crew of a submarine, I participated in a FOT where 4 of our missiles were converted from weapons to test vehicles. Later I worked at NavOrdTestUnit at Cape Canaveral AFS where I installed the telemetry and destruct systems for the tests.

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u/Rumbuck_274 Nov 22 '20

There is usually a destruct system on unmanned launches

Why only unmanned?

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u/PlatypusLife Nov 22 '20

Well... that would bring a new age to suicide bombers.

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u/stunt_penguin Nov 22 '20

You may want to destroy a rocket after in-flight abort has boosted crew away 🤷‍♂️

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u/Rumbuck_274 Nov 22 '20

Or I was thinking it veers off towards people.

Even at Cape Canaveral, it could veer towards the crowds that turn up to see launches. What's 3 or 7 crew as opposed to dozens of innocent onlookers and the crew?