Our new launch system, Eagle 5, is the pinnacle of reusability. With both stages capable of achieving reuse, and the fairing eventually capable of reuse as well, Eagle 5 is one of the world’s only fully-reusable launch vehicles. As such, both reuse systems need to be tested before we can begin regular commercial launches. This is what CFT-1 is for, Comprehensive Flight Test 1. In this document, we will discuss the goals or milestones that we hope Eagle 5 will achieve on CFT-1.
Eagle 5 CFT-1, our newest launch vehicle’s maiden flight, has many goals to achieve. For CFT-1, the prototype vehicles planned to be used are B305, the first stage, and S713, the second stage. B305 recently completed a hop test and thorough hot fire test, certifying it for flight on CFT-1. S713 has completed engine firings, and other tests as well. The goals and milestones that are hoped to be achieved on CFT-1 are listed in chronological order below:
LIFTOFF
MECO/STAGE SEP
BOOSTBACK BURN
SES-1
FAIRING SEP
BOOSTER ENRTY AND ATMO CONTROL
BOOSTER LANDING BURN/LANDING LEGS DEPLOY
BOOSTER SPLASHDOWN
SECO
SECOND STAGE IN-SPACE RCS TEST
COAST IN SPACE
IN-SPACE T-VAC RELIGHT DEMO
SECOND STAGE RE-ENTRY
SECOND STAGE ATMO CONTROL
SECOND STAGE LANDING BURN/LANDING LEGS DEPLOY
SECOND STAGEE SPLASHDOWN
CFT-1 is expected to launch March 2, 2025, at 11:50 PM UTC, from Droo Space Center Launch Complex A. The prototype test vehicles, B305 and S713, are expected to be flown. Splashdown of B305 will occur in the Atlantic Ocean(of Droo). S713 will fly a suborbital trajectory before splashdown will occur in the Pacific Ocean(of Droo). No payload will be flown on CFT-1, for safety reasons. Wish us luck, and have a good day.
P.S., there are a few “Easter Eggs” placed around the rocket, alluding to some movies. If you find them all, and can tell me what movie they’re from, then give yourself a cookie.