The Heavy Cargo Shuttle Resolute is ready for its first launch!  Since this is a prototype, and the vehicle doesn’t have a computer controlled navigation system, KSEA wants to be cautious and only launch one Kerbal.

Jeb and Val argue for sometime about who will get to be the first pilot, but Jeb wins “rock paper scissors” and will be the first pilot!

Resolute blasts off!

“Going good so far… just like the simulations!”

-Jeb

Everyone at the Space Center is tense as the launch continues!   Resolute glides through its gravity turn, and moves to circularize!

The Launcher separates, and heads back down to Kerbin to get recovered!

“That was quite the kick!  Circularizing orbit now!”

-Jeb

“At desired orbit – 70k!  Leaves me with about 500 d/v for orbital maneuvering!”

-Jeb

Jeb begins burns to rendezvous with the Kerbin Space Station!

Success!  Once at the station, Resolute’s cargo doors open…

and the Docking Module leaves the shuttle – guided remotely!

The Docking module moves away from Resolute, toward the station… …and docks!

Jeb pilots Resolute in to test out the new docking module!

“Yikes!  You get an idea of how big this Shuttle is when you get close to the Station!”

-Jeb

Everyone at the Space Center cheers!  Resolute takes a ride around Kerbin, docked to the Space Station. Jeb says hi to everyone – and prepares for the next, and probably most dangerous part of the mission… reentry and landing!

The Heavy Cargo Shuttle undocks…

Then Resolute closes its cargo bays!

“Mission Control – this is Resolute!  I’m coming down!”

-Jeb

Resolute heads through the atmosphere, then starts its approach to the Space Center!

“I’m in the pipe… five by five!”

-Jeb

Jeb poses in front of the Heavy Cargo Shuttle Resolute.  Well done – mission success!  Resolute will be brought in and refurbished for its next flight!