Guests: John Batchelor, Jim Cantrell, Dr. David Livingston. Topics: Vector Space Systems, small launchers, 3D printing & more. You are invited to comment, ask questions, and discuss the Space Show program/guest(s) on the Space Show blog. Comments, questions, and any discussion must be relevant and applicable to Space Show programming. Written Transcripts of Space Show programs are not permitted without prior written consent from The Space Show (even if for personal use) & are a violation of the Space Show copyright. We do not permit the commercial use of any Space Show program or part thereof, nor do we permit Space Show programs to be edited, placed on YouTube, or other private channels & websites. Space Show programs can be quoted in news articles, papers, academic & research work but must be cited or referenced in the proper citation format. Contact Dr. Livingston for questions about our copyright and trademark policies which we do enforce. This program is archived on The Space Show website, podcasting, and blog sites with permission from John Batchelor. Please visit the John Batchelor Show website for more information about this fine program, www.johnbatchelorshow.com. Remember, your Amazon Purchases Can Help Support The Space Show/OGLF (www.onegiantleapfoundation.org/amazon.htm. Please note that audio and transition issues are a result of copying the John Batchelor broadcast & are not within my control as they originate in the Batchelor studio.
John Batchelor and I welcomed Jim Cantrell of Vector Space Systems to discuss his new dedicated small launchers, his business market, rocket capabilities, 3D printing of certain rocket motor parts, launch sites, and customers. During our Hotel Mars double segment, Jim introduced us to the two Vector rockets under development, the Vector R and the Vector H. He provided us with the launch capability for each rocket plus he talked about being able to launch dedicated smallsats from either a polar orbit from Kodiak, Alaska or an equatorial launch from Launch Pad 46 at the Cape. Additionally, he addressed possible downstream technologies for consumers to direct their satellite function via their smartphone. Vector is also developing the capability to custom build smallsat constellations for customers. John asked Jim about 3D printing. Jim said they use it for making rocket injectors out of aluminum and that they will expand the use of 3D printing over time. When asked about 3D printing their rocket fuel, he said their rockets were liquid fueled rockets. Jim told us that use carbon fiber for much of their rocket structure. Earth science came up in the discussion as Vector has a new agreement with ICEYE of Finland for smallsat Earth Science (http://www.iceye.fi/#intro).
You can email Mr. Batchelor or Jim Cantrell through me at drspace@thespaceshow.com.
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