3 ms·
Just before the launch, when the strongback retracted, did anyone else notice how the umbilical cables became snagged, as the strongback was still retracting?
by brianstorms 13y ago
Just before the launch, when the strongback retracted, did anyone else notice how the umbilical cables became snagged, as the strongback was still retracting? Sure enough, there was a moment where there was no slack, and the strongback actually pulled the Falcon 9 rocket a slight amount, causing it to rock back and forth on the launchpad. You could see it rocking back and forth perhaps by 6 inches or more. The cable snag freed itself and the retraction continued nominally, but the rocket kept teetering for another minute. Pretty interesting. Wonder if they plan for such contingencies.
- lutorm 13y agoI doubt the umbilical moved the rocket. What you were seeing was probably the effect of wind -- it's a very tall, narrow structure with a big fairing on top. Once the clamp is released, it's only held down at the bottom, so like any tall building it flexes noticeably in the wind.
- brianstorms 13y agoWatch the video. I'm pretty certain the umbilical snag caused the rocket to teeter.