Explorer 5 is rolled out to launch, an exciting new chapter in Kerbal exploration of space!

Blastoff!   The massive Jool IV rocket lifts Explorer 5 to the clouds…

…. and beyond to orbit!

“Mission Control, this is Malcolm on the X-9!  Mitster and I are OK for take off!”

-Malcolm

 

The X-9 will fly the Explorer 5 crew to the spacecraft!

Malcolm flies the spacecraft on launch, with Mitster supervising.

“So far so good!”

-Mitster

Explorer 5 reaches orbit, and Malcolm starts the rendezvous maneuvers to meet up with Explorer 5!

“OK… the X-9 is a bit tricky with its RCS controls… this might take a few tries!”

–Mitster

It does take awhile, but eventually the X-9 docks with Explorer 5!  Val, Bill, and Bob all transfer over!

OK guys… I’ll go first!  Glykerol levels normal… initiating freeze!

-Val

“It worked!  Our turn… see you in a few minutes Bob!”

-Bill

With that Bill throws the “freeze!” lever, and the crew of Explorer 5 is in stasis, ready for the trip to Duna!

Malcolm brings the X-9 in for a landing!

“Mission Control, Malcom here!  I’m in the pipe, five by five!”

-Malcolm

It’s a tricky night landing, but Malcolm brings the X-9 home!  All of Kerbin now waits for Explorer 5 to depart!