Overview

This is the flight motor for Hermes Flight 1.

*propellant mass estimated by delivered impulse prior to anomaly, improved estimate to come after failure analysis

Unfortunately, a failure of the liner at the splice point led to propellant gases burning through the middle of the case at approximately 3.1 seconds into the burn.

Media

Data

Issues

Detail 1 - Gross Acreage Damage

Phenolic tube sustained damage during transit. Root cause appears to be insufficient packaging.

Detail 2 - Nozzle End Damage

Should Be - Nominal Tube

Is - Slightly buckled and chipped phenolic and excess of polyurethane glue

Tube likely dropped or rolled into object during transit.

Detail 3 - Head End Damage

Should Be - Nominal Tube

Is - Plys of the tube are buckled inwards and slightly laminated.

Tube likely dropped or rolled into object during transit.