I’m Anthony Colangelo.

I used to write frequently, but now it’s just occasionally.

Formerly: A List Apart, Cognition, Main Engine Cut Off.

Handful of Europa Clipper Updates

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While the majority of this SpaceNews article by Jeff Foust is focused on Congressional wrestling over how much money Europa Clipper should receive, there are a few other tidbits of interest.

Continuing Resolution Could Doom AR1

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One of the programs that could be affected is the one funding development of the AR1, BE-4, and ACES. Blue Origin isn’t going to stop their work on the BE-4, because that’s paramount to their own ambitions, but the AR1 work could be hit hard.

Blue Origin’s New Shepard as Generic Booster

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This would be a smart move for Blue Origin if and when it comes about. I’d be interested if they’d jettison the fairings (with recovery), or use a hinged, clamshell-style design that would remain attached to the booster on its way back down.