Before the Aurora 29 launch engineers wanted to test the core Nebula II rocket on a uncrewed payload – while the engine systems did not change the aerodynamics were altered  enough to warrant a test launch!

The new MPV (multi-payload-vehicle) probe was chosen to be the test-payload!

“We want to make sure Aurora 29 is a perfect launch – and that means being safe!”
–Gene

The refit Nebula Rocket (N-2) blasts off from the space center!

“Telemetry shows the rocket is behaving normally – the new aerodynamic features are having minimal impact on performance at launch!“
–Seely, Supervising from Spacedock 2

As N-2 reaches orbit the rocket seems to be performing perfectly!

The protective fairing on the probe ejects, and the MPV-Probe drifts slowly away from N-2!

Next, the rocket flips orientation using RCS, fires a precise thrust of the engines…

And begins soaring through the atmosphere!

“All departments – watch for any anomalies – how are we looking?“
-Gene, at Mission Control

“So far, so good – we are apraching the transition to subsonic …!“
–Seely, Supervising from Spacedock 2

Re-entry of the Nebula Rockets have always suffered from instabilities at the supersonic/subsonic boundary – everyone holds their breath as the rocket passes the barrier…

“Oh wow!  N-2 maintained attitude through the transition – she’s flying like a spaceplane toward landing!“
–Seely, Supervising from Spacedock 2

“Great work people!”
-Gene, at Mission Control

N-2 begins its landing burn, just east of the main launch platform!

“Landing gear is deployed… hydraulics have locked… telemetry nominal…”
–Seely, Supervising from Spacedock 2

N-2 sets down perfectly!  Crews will recover the rocket soon!