L1, TVC, and so much more! (Patreon)

L1 - The NAR CMASS launch was scrubbed due to poor weather this past Saturday, so the "L1a" rocket remains un-launched. The rocket is roughly 80% ready for flight. The complicated parts of the build are all complete; what remains is attaching the parachute, rail buttons, and of course some cool BPS labeling!

Dart - If you haven't checked it out, Dart's first test report was released last week to "Ascent" patrons, and is attached to this post for access to all patrons now. As mentioned, the vehicle needs to go through a small redesign regarding the fin and computer layout, which is relatively uncomplicated. That said, focus is currently set on getting a fully working, closed-loop TVC (thrust vector control) system online before re-testing Dart. 

TVC - The new and improved thrust vectoring mount is in the final few revisions! Working hardware is online, though I'll continue to revise until assembly process is as simple as possible. This week I aim to get the TVC breakout board online and talking to the flight computer. If all goes to plan, I'll push for a static fire test to verify the hardware's integrity by May 13th. Success is highly likely, though tests are performed for a reason :). After that, I'll perform a higher stakes test where the vectoring system will keep a new rocket upright(or horizontal, orientation is still undecided) in a held down gimbal mount, conceptually similar to the mount that held Dart. 

Signal - I'll push this week to finish designs for a second revision of the Signal flight computer. As mentioned, the current build works, but has a few non-ideal sections on it, so I aim to send out the board files by Friday.

Airframe - I've been designing all TVC hardware to work with a 74mm airframe until recently, and will be switching to the lighter and smaller 66mm(BT-80) tube made by Estes. Propulsive-landing a rocket is still a big goal this summer. This tube cuts my airframe mass in half, which will be a significant advantage in that pursuit.

Job - Somewhat unrelated, but I'm starting a new job this week as an avionics tech for a company that specializes in aerial photography and cinema. Very excited to begin working with them! Because of this I'll have a bit less free time to work on rockets - the good news being that I've already done a good deal of heavy lifting on Signal's development, so the rate of progress shouldn't be too noticeable. There's still a good deal of work to be done with software, but many of the hurdles I was worried about back in March(computer design, hardware overhaul, etc) are no longer difficult challenges. The weekly updates will still continue!

That's all for now - plenty to be excited about. If you have questions, comments, or advice, always feel free to reach out here or on Twitter @joebarnard. Talk soon!