Hacker Newsnew | past | comments | ask | show | jobs | submitlogin

At least for the retro-propulsive landing burn, I think the modeling problem is probably aided by the high G-forces that must keep the fuel very close to the bottom of the tank. Even before re-light the booster is falling near terminal velocity (I think?), so the fuel is likely sitting at the bottom.

I think it's a huge problem when re-lighting the engines in orbit, though.




Also IIRC the massive main tanks in Super Heavy should be basically empty at landing & the landings propelants come from a set of small header tabks that are near the central axis of the vehicle & arr completely full. This should reduce or even fully remove sloshing issues at landing time.


Iirc cold gas thrusters are used before ignition to provide some acceleration to force the fuel to the bottom of the tank.


The technical term for that is 'ullage'.

See also: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ullage_motor




Consider applying for YC's Fall 2025 batch! Applications are open till Aug 4

Guidelines | FAQ | Lists | API | Security | Legal | Apply to YC | Contact

Search: