Falcon 9 Launch Vehicle

Payload User’s Guide

R e v 1

Approved for Public Release.

Cleared for Open Publication by Office of Security Review. 09-S-0347

© Space Exploration Technologies Corporation

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

Table of Contents
Table of Contents 2
1. Introduction 4
1.1. Revision History 4
1.2. Purpose 4
1.3. Company Description 4
1.4. Falcon Program Overview 5
1.5. Mission Management 5
1.6. Key Customer Advantages 5
1.6.1. Reliability 5
1.6.2. Pricing 7
2. Vehicle Overview 8
2.1. Falcon 9 Launch Vehicles 8
2.1.1. Structure and Propulsion 8
2.1.2. Avionics, Guidance/Navigation/Control, Flight Termination
Systems 8
2.2. Vehicle Axes/Attitude Definitions 11
3. Facilities Overview 12
3.1. Headquarters – Hawthorne, CA 12
3.2. Space Launch Complex 40, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida 12
3.3. Space Launch Complex ‐ 4 East, Vandenberg Air Force Base (VAFB),
California 15
3.4. U.S. Army Kwajalein Atoll, Marshall Islands 16
3.5. Test Facility ‐ Central Texas 17
3.6. Government Outreach and Legal Affairs‐‐Washington, DC 17
4. General Performance Capability 18
4.1. Performance Capability 18
4.1.1. Low Earth Orbit 19
4.1.2. Polar 20
4.1.3. Sun Synchronous 21
4.1.4. C3 – Escape Velocity 22
4.1.5. Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (Cape Canaveral) 23
4.1.6. Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (Kwajalein) 24
4.1.7. Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (Delta‐Velocity To Go) [Cape] 25
4.1.8. Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (Delta‐Velocity To Go)
[Kwajalein] 26
4.2. Sample Mission Profiles 27
4.3. Mass Properties 29
4.4. Separation Accuracy 29
4.5. Mission Accuracy Data 29

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 2

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

5. General Payload Information 30

5.1. Payload Fairing 30
5.1.1. General Description 30
5.1.2. Falcon 9 Fairing 30
5.1.3. Payload Separation 31
5.1.4. Collision Avoidance 31
5.2. Payload Environments 31
5.2.1. Transportation Environments 31
5.2.2. Humidity, Cleanliness and Thermal Control 32
5.2.3. Launch and Flight Environments 32
5.3. Payload Interfaces 40
5.3.1. Falcon 9 Payload Attach Fittings 41
5.3.2. Test Fittings and Fitcheck Policy 43
5.3.3. Electrical Interfaces 43
5.4. Payload Integration 46
5.4.1. Integration Schedule 46
5.4.2. Documentation Requirements 50
5.4.3. Standard Services 50
5.4.4. Non‐standard Services 51
6. Launch Operations 52
6.1. Launch Control Organization 53
6.2. Spacecraft Transport to Launch Site 55
6.2.1. Processing Services and Equipment 55
6.3. Plans and Schedules 57
6.3.1. Mission Integration Plan 59
6.3.2. Launch Vehicle Schedules 60
7. Safety 61
7.1. Safety Requirements 61
7.2. Hazardous Systems and Operations 61
7.3. Waivers 61
8. Payload Questionnaire 62
9. Quick Reference 63
9.1. List of Figures 63
9.2. List of Tables 64
9.3. List of Acronyms 64

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 3

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

1. Introduction
1.1. Revision History
This is the first publicly available version of the Falcon 9 Launch Vehicle User's Guide.

1.2. Purpose
The Falcon 9 User’s Guide is a planning document provided for potential and current customers
of Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX). This document is not intended for detailed design
use. Data for detailed design purposes will be exchanged directly between a SpaceX Mission
Manager and the Payload Provider. This User's Guide highlights the Falcon 9 Block 2 launch
vehicle and launch service. The Block 2 launch vehicle offers improved mass‐to‐orbit
performance when compared to the Falcon 9 Block 1. Specific differences between Block 1 and
Block 2 will be identified, when appropriate. Performance and environments information are
based upon Falcon 9 requirements and analyses, but are not yet validated by flight data.

1.3. Company Description

In an era when most technology‐based products follow a path of ever‐increasing capability and
reliability while simultaneously reducing costs, today’s launch vehicles are little changed from
those of 40 years ago. SpaceX is changing this paradigm with a family of launch vehicles which
will ultimately reduce the cost and increase the reliability of access to space. Coupled with the
newly emerging market for private and commercial space transport, this new model will re‐
ignite humanity's efforts to explore and develop space.

SpaceX was founded on the philosophy that simplicity, reliability, and low‐cost are closely
coupled. We approach all elements of launch services with a focus on simplicity to both
increase reliability and lower cost. The SpaceX corporate structure is flat and business
processes are lean, resulting in both fast decision making and delivery. SpaceX products are
designed to require low infrastructure facilities (production and launch) with low maintenance
overhead, while vehicle design teams are co‐located with production and quality assurance
staff to tighten the critical feedback loop. The result is highly producible and low cost designs
with quality imbedded. To better understand how SpaceX can achieve low cost without
sacrificing reliability, please see the Frequently Asked Questions at www.spacex.com.

Established in 2002 by Elon Musk, the founder of PayPal and the Zip2 Corporation, SpaceX has
already developed a light lift launch vehicle, the Falcon 1, nearly completed development of the
Falcon 9, and developed state of the art testing and launch locations.

In addition, NASA has selected the SpaceX Falcon 9 launch vehicle and Dragon spacecraft for
the International Space Station (ISS) Cargo Resupply Services (CRS) contract award. The
contract is for a guaranteed minimum of 20,000 kg to be carried to the International Space
Station. The firm contracted value is $1.6 billion and NASA may elect to order additional
missions for a cumulative total contract value of up to $3.1 billion. SpaceX is on sound financial
footing as we move towards volume commercial launches.

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 4

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

Our design and manufacturing facilities are conveniently located near the Los Angeles
International airport. This location also allows the company to leverage the deep and rich
aerospace talent pool available in Southern California. The SpaceX state‐of‐the‐art propulsion
and structural test facilities are located in Central Texas.

1.4. Falcon Program Overview

Drawing upon a rich history of prior launch vehicle and engine programs, SpaceX is privately
developing the Falcon family of rockets from the ground up, including main and upper‐stage
engines, the cryogenic tank structure, avionics, guidance & control software and ground
support equipment.

With the Falcon 1, Falcon 1e, Falcon 9 and Falcon 9 Heavy launch vehicles, SpaceX is able to
offer a full spectrum of light, medium and heavy lift launch capabilities to our customers. We
are able to deliver spacecraft into any inclination and altitude, from low Earth orbit (LEO) to
geosynchronous orbit (GEO) to planetary missions. The Falcon 9 and Falcon 9 Heavy are the
only US launch vehicles with true engine‐out reliability. They are also designed such that all
stages are reusable, making them the world's first fully reusable launch vehicles. The Dragon
crew and cargo capsule, in conjunction with our Falcon 9, have been selected by NASA to
provide efficient and reliable transport of cargo and potentially crew to the International Space
Station (ISS) and other LEO destinations.

1.5. Mission Management

To facilitate and streamline communication, each customer works with a single SpaceX contact,
a Mission Manager. The Mission Manager works closely with the customer, SpaceX technical
execution staff and all associated licensing agencies in order to achieve a successful mission.
Specifically, the SpaceX Mission Manager is responsible for coordinating mission integration
analysis and documentation deliverables, planning integration meetings and reports, and
coordinating all integration and test activities associated with the mission.

The Mission Manager will also facilitate customer insight during the launch campaign. Though
the launch operations team is ultimately responsible for customer hardware and associated
Ground Support Equipment (GSE), the Mission Manager will coordinate all launch site activities
to ensure customer satisfaction during this critical phase.

1.6. Key Customer Advantages

1.6.1. Reliability

The vast majority of launch vehicle failures in the past two decades can be attributed to three
causes: engine, avionics and stage separation failures. An analysis by Aerospace Corporation1
showed that 91% of known failures can be attributed to those subsystems.

1
http://www.aero.org/publications/crosslink/winter2001/03.html. A hard copy of this reference can be made
available upon request.

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 5

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

With this in mind, Falcon 9 launch vehicles are designed for high reliability starting at the
architectural level and incorporate the flight‐proven design and features of the Falcon 1 launch
vehicle. Some of the significant contributors to reliability include:

• Robust design margins

Falcon 9 is designed with the goal of carrying humans into space aboard the SpaceX
Dragon capsule. This goal drives the initial design of Falcon 9 through the incorporation
of increased factors of safety (1.4 versus the traditional 1.25 for uncrewed flight).
Payload customers using the Falcon 9 can take advantage of this increased design
robustness. The first and second stages are also designed to be recovered and reused,
and therefore, must have significantly higher margins than an expendable stage. This
also provides a unique opportunity to examine recovered hardware and assess design
and material selection in order to continually improve Falcon 9.

• Propulsion and separation event design

The heart of Falcon 9 propulsion is the Merlin 1C liquid propellant rocket engine. The
Merlin engine features a robust, reliable turbopump design incorporating a single shaft
for both the liquid oxygen and fuel pumps, and a gas generator cycle versus the more
complex staged combustion. The regeneratively‐cooled thrust chamber uses a milled
copper alloy liner chamber that provides large margins on heat flux. In addition, the
pintle injector was selected for its inherent combustion stability. As a part of our launch
operations, we hold the first stage after ignition and monitor engine prior to release to
watch engine trends. If an off‐nominal condition exists, an autonomous abort is
conducted. This helps prevent an engine performance issue from causing a failure in
flight. Falcon 9 makes use of ten Merlin 1C engines on each vehicle (nine on the first
stage, one on the second stage) resulting in high volume engine production, which
results in much higher quality through process control. Flying ten engines on each
mission also builds substantial heritage quickly. Importantly, by employing nine first
stage engines, SpaceX debuts the world’s first Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle
(EELV)‐class launch vehicle with engine‐out capability through much of first stage flight.
With the qualification and first flight units in build and several domestic and
international purchased flights currently manifested, Falcon 9 is an ideal workhorse for
payload customers.

SpaceX has also minimized the number of stages (2) to minimize separation events. The
separation system between the first and second stages does not incorporate electro‐
explosive devices, instead relying upon a pneumatic release and separation system that
allows for acceptance testing of the actual flight hardware. This is not possible with a
traditional explosive‐based separation system.

• Failure mode minimization

SpaceX minimized the number of failure modes by minimizing the number of separate
subsystems. The first stage thrust vector control (TVC) system makes use of pressurized

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 6

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

rocket‐ grade kerosene (RP‐1). The engine pulls from the high pressure RP‐1 side of the
pump to power the TVC. This eliminates the separate hydraulic system. In addition it
eliminates the failure mode associated with running out of pressurized fluid. Also, the
avionics and guidance/navigation/control systems are designed with single fault
tolerance, supporting the ability of Falcon 9 to be human rated.

• Rigorous testing
In addition to SpaceX’s unique design decisions, Falcon 9 will undergo an exhaustive
series of tests from the component to the vehicle system level. This includes
component level qualification and workmanship testing, structures load and proof
testing, flight system and propulsion subsystem level testing, full first and second stage
testing up to full system testing, including stage static firings at the test and launch sites
(as appropriate). In addition to testing environmental extremes (plus margin), all
hardware is tested to account for off‐nominal conditions. For example, both stage and
fairing separation tests require testing for off‐nominal cases with respect to geometrical
misalignment, anomalous pyro timing and sequencing.

A major contributor to a reliable system is its operations. To support robust launch operations,
the SpaceX launch countdown is fully automated with thousands of checks made prior to
vehicle release. After first stage ignition, the vehicle is not released until the first stage engines
are confirmed to be operating normally. A safe shutdown is executed, should any off nominal
conditions be detected. Falcon 9 benefits from the design and operations concepts established
for and proven with the successful Falcon 1 program.

1.6.2. Pricing

The standard price per launch for Falcon 9 Launch Vehicles can be found here2. Pricing includes
range, standard payload integration and third party liability insurance. Please see Section 5.4
for a description of the standard services. Non‐standard services are also available. If non‐
standard services are required, please identify these in the Payload Questionnaire found in
Section 8 of this Guide.

2
http://www.spacex.com/falcon9.php#pricing_and_performance.

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 7

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

2. Vehicle Overview
2.1. Falcon 9 Launch Vehicles
Falcon 9 Launch Vehicles are designed to provide breakthrough advances in reliability, cost, and
time to launch. The primary design driver is, and will remain, reliability. SpaceX recognizes that
nothing is more important than getting a customer’s payload safely to its intended destination.
The initial flights of the Falcon 9, currently planned in 2009 and 2010, use the Falcon 9 Block 1.
Beginning in late 2010/early 2011, SpaceX will begin launching the Falcon 9 Block 2. Block 2
features increased engine thrust, decreased launch vehicle dry mass, and increased propellant
load ‐ combined with lessons learned from the flights of the Falcon 9 Block 1. This results in
increased mass‐to‐orbit performance for the Falcon 9 Block 2 when compared with Block 1
performance. This performance is shown in the Falcon 9 performance tables presented later in
this document.

2.1.1. Structure and Propulsion

Like Falcon 1, Falcon 9 is a two‐stage, liquid oxygen (LOX) and rocket grade kerosene (RP‐1)
powered launch vehicle. It uses the same Merlin engines, structural architecture (with a wider
diameter), and launch control system.

The Falcon 9 propellant tank walls and domes are made from an aluminum lithium alloy.
SpaceX uses an all friction stir welded tank, the highest strength and most reliable welding
technique available. Like Falcon 1, the Falcon 9 interstage, which connects the upper and lower
stages, is a carbon fiber aluminum core composite structure. The separation system is a larger
version of the pneumatic pushers used on Falcon 1.

Nine SpaceX Merlin engines power the Falcon 9 first stage with 125,000 lbf sea level thrust per
engine, for a total thrust on liftoff of just over 1.1 million lbf. After engine start, Falcon 9 is held
down until all vehicle systems are verified as functioning normally before release for liftoff.

The second stage tank of Falcon 9 is simply a shorter version of the first stage tank and uses
most of the same tooling, material and manufacturing techniques. This results in significant cost
savings in vehicle production.

A single Merlin engine powers the Falcon 9 upper stage with an expansion ratio of 117:1 and a
nominal burn time of 345 seconds. For added reliability of restart, the engine has dual
redundant pyrophoric igniters (TEA‐TEB).

The Falcon 9 fairing is 17 ft (5.2 m) in diameter.

2.1.2. Avionics, Guidance/Navigation/Control, Flight Termination Systems

Falcon 9 vehicle avionics features a single‐fault tolerant architecture and has been designed
with a view towards human‐rating requirements in order to allow future qualification for

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 8

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

crewed launch capability. Avionics include rugged flight computers, GPS receivers, inertial
measurement units, SpaceX‐designed and manufactured controllers for vehicle control
(propulsion, valve, pressurization, separation, and payload interfaces), and a C‐Band
transponder for Range Safety tracking. Falcon 9 transmits telemetry from both the first and
second stages, even after separation of the stages. S‐band transmitters are used to transmit
telemetry and video to the ground.

The guidance and navigation algorithms for Falcon 9 launch vehicles have been heavily
influenced by the algorithms used on other launch vehicles, including Falcon 1. The guidance
system takes into account the loss of an engine during first stage burn and adjusts the targeted
trajectory accordingly. This mix of explicit and perturbation guidance schemes was selected in
order to generate a smooth, computationally simple trajectory while maintaining orbital
insertion accuracies.

The Falcon 9 launch vehicle is equipped with a standard flight termination system. This system
includes two redundant strings of command receiver and encoder, batteries, safe and arm
devices, and ordnance in the event of an anomaly in flight.

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 9

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

Table 2‐1 ‐ Falcon 9 Launch Vehicle (Block 2) Dimensions and Characteristics

Characteristic Stage 1 Stage 2

Structure
Length 180 feet [55m] (both stages with fairing & interstage)
Diameter 12 feet [3.66m]
Type LOX tank ‐ monococque; Fuel Monococque
tank ‐ stringer and ring frame
Material Aluminum lithium Aluminum lithium
Propulsion
Engine Type Liquid, gas generator Liquid, gas generator
Engine Manufacturer SpaceX SpaceX
Engine Designation Merlin 1C Merlin Vacuum
Number of engines 9 1
Propellant Liquid oxygen/Kerosene (RP‐1) Liquid oxygen/Kerosene (RP‐1)
Thrust 1,125,000 lbf (sea level) [5MN] 100,000 lbf (vacuum) [445kN]
Propellant feed system Turbopump Turbopump
Throttle capability No Yes (60‐100%)
Restart capability No Yes ‐ 2 restarts
Tank pressurization Heated helium Heated helium
Thrust Vector Control
Pitch, Yaw Gimbaled engines Gimbaled engine
Roll Gimbaled engines Turbine exhaust duct (gimbal)
Reaction Control System
Propellant Not applicable Monomethyl hydrazine,
nitrogen tetroxide
Thrusters Not applicable Draco (4)
Thrust Not applicable 90 lbf [400N] each
Staging
Nominal burn time 170 sec 354 sec
Shutdown process Commanded shutdown Commanded shutdown
Stage separation system Pneumatically actuated Not applicable
mechanical collets

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 10

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

2.2. Vehicle Axes/Attitude Definitions

True North Notes
(10 deg app .)
‐ Vehicle as seen from above
‐ Vehicle coordinate frame as shown , with the X
axis being the vehicle longitudinal axis , positive
+Z (0 deg) forward . This coordinate frame is aligned with
the Erector

Positive Clocking
Angle

S ‐Band
60 deg
9 6
Q IV 3 UHF
300 deg
Fairing Split Line
292 .5 deg

C ‐Band 270 deg

C Band
90 deg QI 8 5 Q III 2 +Y

30 . 8°

Q II
UHF
120 deg
7 4 1 S ‐Band 240 deg

TAA ‐3C JD Missile Tracking

(Telemetry ) Annex
FPS 16 (Radar ) FTS
Transmitter
Transporter /
Errector

Figure 2‐1 ‐ Falcon 9 launch vehicle layout and coordinate system

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX. 2009 11

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

3. Facilities Overview
3.1. Headquarters – Hawthorne, CA
SpaceX headquarters are conveniently located in Hawthorne, CA, a few miles inland from Los
Angeles International Airport (LAX). The 550,000+ square foot (5.1 hectares) design and
manufacturing facility ranks among the largest manufacturing facilities in California. Two
complete Falcon 9s will fit end‐to‐end along the short length of the building. For production,
there are three Falcon 1 lines, three parallel Falcon 9 lines, nearly two dozen Merlin engine
assembly stations, and Dragon capsule production areas. Potential customers are encouraged
to arrange a tour when in the Los Angeles area. Map and Directions.

Figure 3‐1‐ Hawthorne, California Headquarters

3.2. Space Launch Complex 40, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida
SpaceX has a Falcon 9 launch site on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (CCAFS). The launch site
is Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC‐40), former home of the Titan IV heavy lift rockets. SpaceX
facilities at SLC‐40 include a hangar, propellant/pressurant storage and supply areas, launch
pad, and lightning towers. Adjacent to the launch complex is the SpaceX administrative office
facility. SpaceX launch operations are managed from the Launch Control Center, located at the
south entrance to CCAFS. A general layout of the launch facilities is presented in the following
figures.

Figure 3‐2 ‐ Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (CCAFS), Florida

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 12

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

Figure 3‐3 ‐ Space Launch Complex 40 Instrumentation Bay location

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 13

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

Figure 3‐4 ‐ Space Launch Complex 40 Hangar layout

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 14

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

3.3. Space Launch Complex ‐ 4 East, Vandenberg Air Force Base (VAFB), California
SpaceX plans to establish a launch facility at Vandenberg Air Force Base (VAFB) in central
California to meet customer needs for polar and sun‐synchronous capability. SpaceX’s
headquarters, manufacturing and production facility is located in the Los Angeles area, within
driving distance or a short flight to VAFB. SpaceX has previously worked with the Range at
VAFB on Falcon 1 facilities, including conducting a static fire at SLC‐3 West in 2005. The
candidate launch site, pending discussions with the U.S. Air Force, would be at Space Launch
Complex 4 East (SLC‐4E). The design of the Falcon 9 launch site at VAFB will mirror the facilities
and operations implemented at the Cape Canaveral launch site.

Figure 3‐5 ‐ SLC‐4 East, VAFB

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 15

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

3.4. U.S. Army Kwajalein Atoll, Marshall Islands

SpaceX has an operational Falcon 1 launch site at the Kwajalein Atoll, about 2500 miles
southwest of Hawaii. The Falcon 1 launch facilities are situated on Omelek Island, part of the
Ronald Reagan Ballistic Missile Defense Test Site (RTS) at United States Army Kwajalein Atoll
(USAKA). The location and a general layout of the launch facility are presented in Figure 3‐6.
SpaceX is evaluating establishing a launch facility for Falcon 9 at Kwajalein that would provide
superior performance to geosynchronous transfer orbit as well as high‐inclination orbits.

Figure 3‐6 ‐ Falcon 1 launch site, Kwajalein Atoll

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 16

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

3.5. Test Facility ‐ Central Texas

Structural and propulsion tests are conducted at the rapidly growing and expanding test site
located in McGregor, Texas, just west of Waco. Conveniently located 2 hours from both Austin
and Dallas, the site is staffed with test engineers, technicians and management personnel.
During preparation and testing, the site also plays host to personnel from the California
headquarters who supplement the Texas team.

Figure 3‐7 ‐ SpaceX’s Texas Test Facility

3.6. Government Outreach and Legal Affairs‐‐Washington, DC

SpaceX’s government outreach and licensing team is located in Washington, DC.

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 17

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

4. General Performance Capability

4.1. Performance Capability
The Falcon 9 launch vehicle performance presented in the following tables and figures is for the
Block 2 (see paragraph 2.1.2 for details). The performance shown is the maximum capability of
the Falcon 9 Block 2 with margin withheld by SpaceX to ensure mission success. Please note
typical payloads in the Falcon 9 class typically below 15000 lbs (6800 kg). Potential customers
should contact SpaceX if they contemplate flying extra‐heavy payloads or using most of the
listed performance of the Falcon 9.

For reference, the following is a list of tables and figures in this section:

Section 4.1 List of Figures

Figure 4‐1 ‐ Falcon 9 Block 2 Performance to Low Earth Orbit (Cape Canaveral) ........................ 19
Figure 4‐2 ‐ Falcon 9 Block 2 Performance ‐ Circular Polar Orbit ................................................. 20
Figure 4‐3 ‐ Falcon 9 Block 2 Performance ‐ Sun Synchronous Orbit ........................................... 21
Figure 4‐4 ‐ Falcon 9 Block 2 Performance ‐ Escape Velocity (Cape Canaveral) .......................... 22
Figure 4‐5 ‐ Falcon 9 Block 2 Performance to Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit ........................... 23
Figure 4‐6 ‐ Falcon 9 Block 2 Performance to Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (Kwajalein) ........ 24
Figure 4‐7 ‐ Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (Delta‐Velocity to Go) from Cape .......................... 25
Figure 4‐8 ‐ Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (Delta‐Velocity to Go) from Kwaj .......................... 26
Figure 4‐9 ‐ Falcon 9 Sample Flight Profile, Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit Mission ................. 27

Section 4.1 List of Tables

Table 4‐1 ‐ Falcon 9 Block 2 Performance to Low Earth Orbit (Cape Canaveral) ......................... 19
Table 4‐2 Falcon 9 Block 2 Performance ‐ Circular Polar Orbit .................................................... 20
Table 4‐3 ‐ Falcon 9 Block 2 Performance ‐ Sun Synchronous Orbit ............................................ 21
Table 4‐4 ‐ Falcon 9 Block 2 Performance ‐ Escape Velocity (Cape Canaveral) ............................ 22
Table 4‐5 ‐ Falcon 9 Block 2 Performance to Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit ............................ 23
Table 4‐6 ‐ Falcon 9 Block 2 Performance to Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (Kwajalein) ......... 24
Table 4‐7 ‐ Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (Delta‐Velocity to Go) from Cape ........................... 25
Table 4‐8 ‐ Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (Delta‐Velocity to Go) from Kwaj ............................ 26
Table 4‐9 ‐ Falcon 9 Sample Flight Timeline, Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit Mission ............... 28

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 18

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

4.1.1. Low Earth Orbit

12000

10000

8000
Payload Mass (kg)

6000

4000

2000

0
0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500

Circular Altitude (km)

51.6 deg 38 deg 28.5 deg

Figure 4‐1 ‐ Falcon 9 Block 2 Performance to Low Earth Orbit (Cape Canaveral)

Table 4‐1 ‐ Falcon 9 Block 2 Performance to Low Earth Orbit (Cape Canaveral)

Payload Mass (kg) Payload Mass (kg)

Circular Orbit Inclination (degrees) Circular Orbit Inclination (degrees)
Altitude (km) 28.5 38 51.6 Altitude (km) 28.5 38 51.6
200 10454 10221 9823 1100 8500 8303 7970
300 10202 9975 9586 1200 8320 8127 7799
400 9953 9737 9358 1300 8147 7957 7635
500 9727 9508 9138 1400 7979 7792 7475
600 9503 9289 8924 1500 7817 7633 7320
700 9287 9076 8719 1600 7662 7480 7172
800 9080 8872 8522 1700 7510 7330 7028
900 8879 8676 8331 1800 7364 7187 6888
1000 8687 8486 8148 1900 7221 7048 6753
2000 7085 6913 6622

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 19

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

4.1.2. Polar
12000

10000

8000
Payload Mass (kg)

6000

4000

2000

0
0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500

Circular Altitude (km)

60 deg 70 deg 80 deg 90 deg

Figure 4‐2 ‐ Falcon 9 Block 2 Performance ‐ Circular Polar Orbit

Table 4‐2 Falcon 9 Block 2 Performance ‐ Circular Polar Orbit

Payload Mass (kg) Payload Mass (kg)

Inclination (degrees) Inclination (degrees)
Circular Orbit Circular Orbit
Altitude (km) 60 70 80 90 Altitude (km) 60 70 80 90
200 9598 9254 8904 8561 1100 7797 7509 7213 6919
300 9392 9057 8712 8377 1200 7629 7345 7054 6765
400 9166 8841 8506 8175 1300 7466 7187 6900 6616
500 8948 8628 8300 7969 1400 7310 7034 6752 6472
600 8738 8424 8102 7782 1500 7158 6887 6609 6332
700 8535 8227 7910 7597 1600 7011 6744 6470 6198
800 8340 8037 7726 7418 1700 6869 6606 6336 6069
900 8153 7854 7549 7246 1800 6731 6473 6206 5943
1000 7972 7679 7378 7079 1900 6599 6343 6081 5820
2000 6470 6215 5960 5702

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 20

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

4.1.3. Sun Synchronous

9000

8000

7000

6000
Payload Mass (kg)

5000

4000

3000

2000

1000

0
0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500

Circular Orbit Altitude (km)

Figure 4‐3 ‐ Falcon 9 Block 2 Performance ‐ Sun Synchronous Orbit

Table 4‐3 ‐ Falcon 9 Block 2 Performance ‐ Sun Synchronous Orbit

Circular Orbit Inclination Payload Circular Orbit Inclination Payload

Altitude (km) (degrees) Mass (kg) Altitude (km) (degrees) Mass (kg)
200 96.3 8351 1100 99.9 6639
300 96.7 8159 1200 100.4 6476
400 97.0 7949 1300 100.9 6319
500 97.4 7742 1400 101.4 6166
600 97.8 7541 1500 102.0 6017
700 98.2 7348 1600 102.5 5874
800 98.6 7162 1700 103.1 5735
900 99.0 6981 1800 103.7 5600
1000 99.5 6807 1900 104.3 5468
2000 104.9 5340

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 21

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

4.1.4. C3 – Escape Velocity

4500

4000

3500

3000
Payload Mass (kg)

2500

2000

1500

1000

500

0
‐20 ‐10 0 10 20 30 40 50

C3 (km^2/s^2)

Figure 4‐4 ‐ Falcon 9 Block 2 Performance ‐ Escape Velocity (Cape Canaveral)

Table 4‐4 ‐ Falcon 9 Block 2 Performance ‐ Escape Velocity (Cape Canaveral)

Payload Mass (kg) C3 Payload Mass (kg)

C3 Escape Energy Performance (km^2/s^ Escape Energy Performance
(km^2/s^2) Cape Canaveral 2) Cape Canaveral
‐16 3823 4 2248
‐14 3598 7 2023
‐11 3373 11 1798
‐8 3148 14 1573
‐6 2923 19 1348
‐3 2698 23 1123
0 2473 28 898
33 673
39 448
45 223

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 22

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

4.1.5. Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (Cape Canaveral)

8000

7000

6000

5000
Payload Mass (kg)

28.5 Inclination
23 deg inclination
4000
21 deg inclination
19 deg inclination
3000
17 deg inclination
15 deg inclination
2000

1000

0
0 10000 20000 30000 40000 50000 60000 70000 80000 90000 100000

Apogee Altitude (km) with 185 km perigee (Cape Canaveral)

Figure 4‐5 ‐ Falcon 9 Block 2 Performance to Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit

Table 4‐5 ‐ Falcon 9 Block 2 Performance to Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit

Orbit Payload Mass (kg)

Altitude Inclination (deg)
(km) 15 17 19 21 23 25 28.5
10000 4392 4921 5447 5947 6391 6740 7002
20000 3551 3970 4374 4744 5060 5300 5471
30000 3130 3501 3853 4172 4442 4643 4784
35786 2972 3325 3660 3963 4216 4405 4536
40000 2880 3224 3550 3842 4087 4269 4394
50000 2715 3043 3351 3627 3857 4028 4144
60000 2598 2915 3212 3477 3697 3860 3969
70000 2512 2820 3109 3365 3578 3736 3841
80000 2445 2747 3029 3279 3487 3641 3742
90000 2391 2688 2966 3211 3415 3565 3664
100000 2348 2641 2914 3156 3356 3504 3601

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright – SpaceX 2009 23

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

4.1.6. Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (Kwajalein)

8000

7000

6000

5000
Payload Mass (kg)

4000 9 deg inclination

5 deg inclination
3000 0 deg inclination

2000

1000

0
0 10000 20000 30000 40000 50000 60000 70000 80000 90000 100000

Apogee Altitude (km) with 185 km perigee (Kwajalein)

Figure 4‐6 ‐ Falcon 9 Block 2 Performance to Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (Kwajalein)

Table 4‐6 ‐ Falcon 9 Block 2 Performance to Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (Kwajalein)

Payload Mass (kg)

Orbit Altitude Inclination (deg)
(km) 9 5 0
10000 7203 6859 5750
20000 5638 5408 4618
30000 4935 4744 4074
35786 4682 4503 3875
40000 4537 4365 3759
50000 4282 4120 3552
60000 4103 3949 3407
70000 3972 3823 3299
80000 3871 3727 3216
90000 3792 3650 3150
100000 3727 3588 3097

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright – SpaceX 2009 24

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

4.1.7. Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (Delta-Velocity To Go) [Cape]

5000

4500

4000
Payload Mass (kg)

3500

3000

2500

2000

1500

1000
1000 1100 1200 1300 1400 1500 1600 1700 1800 1900

Delta‐V to GEO (meters/sec) from Cape Canaveral

F9 without delta‐V mission kit (Cape) F9 with delta‐V mission kit (Cape)

Figure 4‐7 ‐ Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (Delta‐Velocity to Go) from Cape

Table 4‐7 ‐ Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (Delta‐Velocity to Go) from Cape

Without delta-V mission kit With delta-V mission kit

Delta-V to Payload Mass Delta-V to Payload Mass
GSO (m/s) (kg) GSO (m/s) (kg)
1588 2972 1127 1400
1617 3325 1158 1600
1650 3660 1202 1900
1685 3963 1307 2600
1723 4216 1407 3200
1763 4405 1498 3600
1837 4536 1533 3700
1682 3900

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright – SpaceX 2009 25

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

4.1.8. Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (Delta-Velocity To Go) [Kwajalein]

5000

4500

4000

3500
Payload Mass (kg)

3000

2500

2000

1500

1000

500

0
1100 1150 1200 1250 1300 1350 1400 1450 1500 1550

Delta‐V to GEO (meters/sec) from Kwajalein

F9 without delta‐V mission kit (Kwaj) F9 with delta‐V mission kit (Kwaj)

Figure 4‐8 ‐ Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (Delta‐Velocity to Go) from Kwaj

Table 4‐8 ‐ Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (Delta‐Velocity to Go) from Kwaj

Without delta-V mission kit With delta-V mission kit

Delta-V to Payload Mass Delta-V to Payload Mass
GSO (m/s) (kg) GSO (m/s) (kg)
1479 3875 1196 3300
1491 4503 1325 4000
1519 4682 1395 4100
1444 4200

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright – SpaceX 2009 26

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

4.2. Sample Mission Profiles

Each mission is unique in its flight profile. However, a typical flight profile for a maximum‐capability geosynchronous transfer orbit
mission (including a delta‐V mission kit) is shown in the Figure 4‐9, below, and in Table 4‐9.

Fairing Separation
T+199.2 sec

Payload Sep
2nd Stage Engine Start T+20978.8 sec
Stage Separation Coast T+476-1488sec #2 T+1488.6 sec
T+176.2 sec
2nd Stage Engine
2nd Stage Engine Start 2nd Stage Engine CutOff CutOff #2 RCS Burn
#1 T+179.2 sec #1 T+475.9 sec T+1544.6 sec T+19913.2 –
20968.8 sec

Main Engine CutOff

T+174.2 sec

2 engine shutdown
T+155.5 sec

Liftoff (Cape
Canaveral) T=0.0 sec

Figure 4‐9 ‐ Falcon 9 Sample Flight Profile, Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit Mission

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 27

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

Table 4‐9 ‐ Falcon 9 Sample Flight Timeline, Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit Mission

Time After Liftoff Event

(seconds)
0.0 Liftoff from Cape Canaveral
7.5 Initial Pitch Kick
55.0 Begin gravity turn
76.0 Max‐Q
115.0 Release angle of attack restrictions
155.5 Shutdown 2 engines for acceleration limit
174.2 Main Engine Cut Off
176.2 Stage 1/Stage 2 separation
179.2 Second stage engine start #1
199.2 Payload fairing jettison
475.9 Second stage engine cut off #1
1488.6 Second stage engine start #2
1544.6 Second stage engine cut off #2
19913.2 Reaction Control System ignition (apogee kick)
20968.8 Reaction Control System cut off
20978.8 Payload separation (T+ 5hrs, 49 min)

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 28

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

4.3. Mass Properties

Falcon 9 can accommodate typical payloads with mass from 3000 ‐ 15000 lbs (1360 ‐ 6800 kg).
For these payloads, the maximum allowable center of gravity lateral offset is less than 5 inches
(12.7 cm) for non‐spin stabilized missions and 0.5 inches (1.25 cm) for spin‐stabilized missions.
The maximum center of gravity offset from the mechanical interface on top of the second stage
payload adapter is 120 inches (305 cm).

4.4. Separation Accuracy

Prior to separation, Falcon 9 can point the upper stage/payload to any desired attitude and
minimize all rotation rates. Attitude errors will be no greater than 1.4 degrees about each axis.
Attitude rotation rates will be less than 0.2 degree/sec in pitch and yaw, and 0.25 degree/sec in
roll. For spin stabilized missions, prior to separation, Falcon 9 points the upper stage/payload
to the desired attitude and provides a spin about the longitudinal axis. The spin axis orientation
will be accurate to within 1.75 degrees, assuming a maximum 0.5 inches payload center of
gravity offset as mentioned in Section 4.3.

4.5. Mission Accuracy Data

As a liquid propellant vehicle with restart capability, Falcon 9 provides the flexibility required
for payload insertion into orbit with higher eccentricity and for deploying multiple payloads into
slightly different orbits. Until verified by actual operations, SpaceX expects to achieve the
following minimum target orbital insertion accuracy:

Low Earth Orbit

• Perigee ±10 km
• Apogee ±10 km
• Inclination ±0.1 deg
• Right Ascension of Ascending Node ±0.15 deg

Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit

• Perigee ±7.4 km
• Apogee ±130 km
• Inclination ±0.1 deg
• Right Ascension of Ascending Node ±0.75 deg
• Argument of Perigee ±0.3 deg

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 29

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

5. General Payload Information

5.1. Payload Fairing

5.1.1. General Description

The Falcon 9 fairing is 17 ft (5.22 m) in diameter and can accommodate a combination of up to

three access doors or radio frequency (RF) windows in the cylindrical portion. The standard
payload fairing door is a maximum of 24 inches (61 cm) in size. Combinations of acoustic
surfaces are used inside the payload fairing to help achieve the acoustic environment.

5.1.2. Falcon 9 Fairing

MECHANICAL
MATING PLANE TO
LAUNCH VEHICLE
ADAPTER /
SEPARATION
SYSTEM

Figure 5‐1 ‐ Falcon 9 standard fairing and dynamic envelope*, meters [inches]

*Dynamic envelope (shown as PAYLOAD VOLUME above) indicates the volume that the
spacecraft can move within.

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 30

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

5.1.3. Payload Separation

Payload separation is a typically a timed event (usually in reference to completion of an engine

event and associated coast period) issued by the Falcon 9 flight computer. The Falcon 9 second
stage can hold a stable attitude for payload separation or can spin up to a maximum of 5
rotations per minute (RPM) (non‐standard service).

The launch vehicle can provide a signal to the payload at separation to initiate payload power‐
up. Alternate configurations for separation signals (break‐wires, separation switches monitored
directly by the payload or other configurations) can be accommodated as options.

5.1.4. Collision Avoidance

As a standard service, a Collision Avoidance Maneuver (CAM) analysis can be completed,

performance permitting.

5.2. Payload Environments

Falcon 9 launch vehicles use liquid propellant with a single staging event, low thrust‐to‐weight,
and low dynamic pressure flight. The environments presented below are intended to reflect
typical mission levels; mission specific analyses are to be performed and documented in the
Interface Control Document (ICD) per payload needs. Specific individual environments are
defined in the following sections.

Throughout pre‐flight and flight operations, various environmental contributions may vary in
importance. Certain events, such as pyrotechnic firings and stage burnout, add specific quasi‐
static or dynamic loads for specified durations, which may or may not need to be added to
other environments experienced at the same time.

5.2.1. Transportation Environments

SpaceX is in the process of quantifying the transportation environments that a spacecraft will
encounter while being transported from the payload processing facility (if processed outside of
the SpaceX Hangar at SLC‐40) to the hangar and from the hangar to vertical on the launch pad.
This transportation segment will be primarily accomplished by wheeled vehicle (payload
transporter from a customer selected payload processing facility and on the transporter erector
to the launch pad) when launching from Cape Canaveral. Future launches from the Kwajalein
Atoll location will also require shipment from the main island of Kwajalein across to the Falcon
9 launch site island via ship.

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 31

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

5.2.2. Humidity, Cleanliness and Thermal Control

Payload environments during various processing phases are:

In hangar, encapsulated:
• Temperature: 70⁰ F ± 5⁰ F
• Humidity: 50% ± 5%
• Cleanliness: Class 10,000
• Flow rate: 1,000 cfm
During rollout (& transport from Payload Processing Facility [PPF])*:
• Temperature: 70⁰ F ± 5⁰ F
• Humidity: 50% ± 5%
• Cleanliness: Class 10,000
• Flow rate: 1,000 cfm
On pad payload environmental control system (horizontal or vertical):
• Temperature: any setting between 50⁰ F and 85 ⁰ F ± 5⁰ F
• Humidity: any setting between 20% and 50% ± 5%
• Cleanliness: Class 5,000
• Flow rate: Variable from 1000 to 4500 cfm

*Conditioned air will be disconnected for a short duration when the erector arrives at the pad
and the fairing umbilical is switched over to the pad air conditioning supply.

5.2.3. Launch and Flight Environments

This section provides details on the maximum predicted environments (MPE) the payload will
experience during Falcon 9 launch vehicle ground operations, integration, flight, and initial
orbital operations.

5.2.3.1. Design Load Factors

During flight, the payload will experience a range of axial and lateral accelerations. Axial
acceleration is determined by the vehicle thrust history and drag, while maximum lateral
acceleration is primarily determined by wind gusts, engine gimbal maneuvers, first stage engine
shutdowns, and other short‐duration events. Falcon 9 Design Load Factors are shown using the
envelope plotted in Figure 5‐2. The design load factors provided here are expected to be
conservative for payloads with the following basic characteristics: a fundamental bending
mode greater than 10 Hz, a fundamental axial mode greater than 25 Hz, and a mass between
3,000 and 20,000 lbs (1360 – 9070 kg). A positive axial value indicates a compressive net‐center
of gravity acceleration, while a negative value indicates tension. Actual spacecraft loads,
accelerations, and deflections are a function of both the launch vehicle and payload structural
dynamic properties and can only be accurately determined via a coupled loads analysis.

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 32

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

-0.5, 6 0.5, 6
6

-0.5, 4 0.5, 4
4
-2, 3.5 2, 3.5

3
AXIAL (G)

0
-2.5 -2 -1.5 -1 -0.5 0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5

-0.5, -1.5 -1
0.5, -1.5

-2, -1.5 2, -1.5

-2
-0.5, -2 0.5, -2

-3
LATERAL (G)

Figure 5‐2 ‐ Falcon 9 Design Load Factors

5.2.3.2. Shock Environment

There are four events during flight that are characterized as shock loads:
1) Vehicle hold‐down release at lift‐off
2) 2nd stage separation
3) Fairing separation
4) Payload release and separation

Of the shock events, (1) and (2) are negligible for the payload relative to (3) and (4) due to the
large distance and number of joints over which shocks (1) and (2) will travel and dissipate.
Maximum shock loading (3) and (4) is measured and scaled for various preloads required for
the payload fairing and payload separation systems. The resulting maximum shock
environment predicted at payload interface for payload fairing separation and payload
separation (for a 937‐mm clampband separation system) is shown in Figure 5‐3. Actual shock
from the payload‐specific separation system requires selection of a separation system and the
associated payload mass properties.

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 33

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

Figure 5‐3 ‐ Falcon 9 shock response at payload interface

5.2.3.3. Acoustic Environment

During flight, the payload will be subjected to a varying acoustic environment. Levels are
highest at lift off and during transonic flight, due to aerodynamic excitation. The environment
shown in Figure 5‐4 does not include margin for qualification or for acceptance testing. This is
the maximum predicted acoustic environment.

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 34

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

Figure 5‐4 ‐ Falcon 9 acoustic environment requirement (OASPL=139.6 dB)

Table 5‐1 ‐ Falcon 9 acoustic environment

F9 Maximum
Predicted Acoustic
Octave Center Environment (OASPL =
Frequency (Hz) 139.6 dB)
31.5 128.0
63 131.0
125 135.2
250 133.6
500 130.3
1000 126.0
2000 120.0
4000 116.0

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 35

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

5.2.3.4. Sine‐Vibration Environment

SpaceX recommends deriving a payload‐specific sine vibration environment curve based upon a
coupled loads analysis if significant flight history is not available. Actual spacecraft loads,
accelerations, and displacements are a function of both the launch vehicle and payload
structural dynamic properties and can only be accurately determined via a coupled loads
analysis.

The SpaceX approach for Falcon 9 is to use results from coupled loads analysis to derive a shock
response spectrum on the vibration levels at the payload interface. For a given modal damping
value, a smoothed envelope of peak responses is created that is used to produce a sine‐
vibration input curve.

Sine‐Vibration Derivation Methodology:

• Perform shock response spectrum (SRS) analysis on vibration levels at launch
vehicle/spacecraft interface
o Use measured historical data, if available
o Use results from coupled loads analysis, if no measured data available
o Requires analyst to assume damping (Q)
• Divide peak response values at each frequency by Q
• Determine a smoothed envelope of peak responses to produced sine‐vibration input
curve
• Minimize over‐testing by response limiting and notching input base motions
o Limit peak acceleration and interface forces/moments using Coupled Loads
Analysis CLA results
o Limit critical component accelerations

SpaceX can convert Craig‐Bampton and Data Recovery Matrices (DRM’s) from Metric to US
Standard Inch‐Pound‐Second (IPS). SpaceX prefers to have the payload math models in IPS
units, but can accept SI units.

5.2.3.5. Radio Frequency (RF) Environment

Payload customers must ensure that spacecraft materials or components sensitive to an RF
environment are compatible with both the launch pad environment and the RF environment
during flight. The spacecraft RF characteristics should satisfy the limitations shown in Figure
5‐6.

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 36

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

Table 5‐2 ‐ Falcon 9 Launch vehicle RF system characteristics

Source
1 2 3 4 5
Stg 1 Stg 2
Launch Launch
Command Radar Radar Vehicle Vehicle
Function Destruct Transponder Transponder Telem Telem
Rate Receive Transmit Receive Transmit Transmit
Band UHF C‐Band C‐Band S‐Band S‐Band
Frequency
(MHz) 421 5765 5690 2221.5 2213.5
Power Output N/A 400W peak N/A 10W 20W
Modulation Pulse Pulse PCM/FM PCM/FM
Data Rate 2000 pps 3000 pps 1.8 Mbps 1.8 Mbps

Source
6 7 8 9 10 11
Stage 1
Launch Stage 2
Vehicle Launch Recovery‐ Recovery‐
Function Video Vehicle Video GPS L1 Iridium Iridium Telecommand
Rate Transmit Transmit Receive Receive Transmit Receive
Band S‐Band S‐Band L‐Band L‐Band L‐Band S‐Band
Frequency 1610‐ 1610‐
(MHz) 2273.5 2251.5 1575.42 1625.5 1626.5 2038.265
Power Output 5W 10W N/A ‐ ‐ N/A
Modulation FM/NTSC FM/NTSC BPSK/DSSS QPSK QPSK PM/PSK/PCM
Data Rate NTSC NTSC 10 Mbps 2.4 kbps 2.4 kbps 2 kbps

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 37

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

E Field Limit
Freq (MHz) (dBμV/m)
30.0 90
1609.9 90
1610.0 140
1626.0 140
1626.1 90
2199.5 90
2200.0 150
2300.0 150
2300.5 90
5754.9 90
5755.0 163
5775.0 163
5775.1 90
10000.0 90
18000.0 40

Figure 5‐5 – Falcon 9 Worst Case Radiated Environment

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 38

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

E Field Limit
Freq (MHz) (dBμV/m)
0.0 120.0
409.5 120.0
410.0 20.0
430.0 20.0
430.5 120.0
1564.5 120.0
1565.0 20.0
1585.0 20.0
1585.5 120.0
1609.5 120.0
1610.0 20.0
1630.0 20.0
1630.5 120.0
2024.5 120.0
2025.0 20.0
2110.0 20.0
2110.5 120.0
5679.5 120.0
5680.0 60.0
5700.0 60.0
5700.5 120.0
10000.0 120.0
18000.0 146.0

Figure 5‐6 ‐ Allowable Payload Radiated Emissions for Falcon 9 RF Susceptibility

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 39

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

5.2.3.6. Fairing Internal Pressure Environment

Payload fairing internal pressure decay rates are limited to 0.4 psi/sec (2.76 kPa/sec), except for
a transonic spike to 0.9 psi/sec (6.2 kPa/sec).

5.2.3.7. Payload Temperature Exposure During Flight

The Falcon 9 payload fairing is a composite structure consisting of a 1‐inch (2.5‐cm) thick
aluminum honeycomb core surrounded by carbon fiber face sheet plies. The emissivity of the
payload fairing is approximately 0.9. Based upon this emissivity, the payload fairing inner wall
temperature is bounded as shown in Figure 5‐7. The curve is truncated at 250 seconds,
although the approximate time of payload fairing jettison for a geosynchronous transfer orbit
mission from Cape Canaveral is earlier, at 200 seconds. Payload fairing jettison timing is
determined by customer requirements.

Figure 5‐7 ‐ Maximum Payload Fairing Temperature Seen By Payload

5.3. Payload Interfaces

Falcon 9 will provide the pyrotechnic impulses necessary to initiate separation events. The
launch vehicle will also provide a signal to the payload at separation to initiate payload power‐
up. Alternate configurations for separation signals (break‐wires, separation switches monitored
directly by the payload, or other configurations) can be accommodated as options.

The standard payload fairing provides up to 3 access doors, 24” (61 cm) in height, for prelaunch
access. These doors are not designed for emergency access into the payload fairing once the
launch vehicle is on the pad. Under nominal operating conditions, all processing that requires
access to the payload must be complete prior to fairing installation. In the event of a spacecraft

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 40

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

propellant system failure that requires contingency propellant offload, the standard concept of
operations for Falcon 9 is to return the launch vehicle to the hangar.

5.3.1. Falcon 9 Payload Attach Fittings

Falcon 9 launch vehicles do not baseline a specific separation system. Customers have the
option to provide the payload adapter and separation system to interface directly with a
payload adapter attachment location provided as a standard service by SpaceX. Alternatively,
SpaceX can supply the payload adapter and separation system as a non‐standard service.

The Falcon 9 Payload Interface Ring is used in the 5.2 m (17 ft) fairing configuration. This simple
interface is provided for customers with medium‐ and intermediate‐class payloads that prefer
to provide their own launch vehicle adapter/separation system. A diagram of the Falcon 9
payload interface, which consists of a 1575 mm diameter bolt pattern, follows in Figure 5‐8.

SpaceX has experience integrating numerous commercially‐available and internally‐developed

payload separation systems. A Marmon clamp system was flown on the first Falcon 1
demonstration flight 1 and a LightBand system from Planetary Systems Corporation was
employed on the second Falcon 1 demonstration flight. Additionally, SpaceX is currently
developing a low‐shock tension band separation system for the Falcon 9, which uses a non‐
pyrotechnic release mechanism.

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 41

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

Figure 5‐8‐ Falcon 9 Payload Interface Ring (Note: units are in inches)

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 42

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

5.3.2. Test Fittings and Fitcheck Policy

A mechanical fit check (including electrical connector locations) may be conducted with the
spacecraft or a representative spacecraft using a mechanical template. This is typically done
prior to shipment of the spacecraft to the launch site. SpaceX personnel will be available to
conduct this activity at the SpaceX facility. Specific requirements for the fit check will be taken
in to consideration during the integration process with the SpaceX Mission Manager.

5.3.3. Electrical Interfaces

Payload electrical ground support equipment (EGSE) is located in Room B‐9 (see Figure 3‐3)
beneath the launch pad deck at SLC‐40. This room is 8x28 feet in size and 8 feet tall. It is
adjacent to Room B‐10. An interface panel would be installed between rooms B‐9 and B‐10 to
provide a minimum of:
• Six unbalanced transistor–transistor logic (TTL) circuits terminated with BNC connectors
• Six balanced RS‐422 circuits terminated with Trompeter RL‐75C connectors
• Six RS‐232 circuits terminated with DB25 Male connectors
• Six Ethernet circuits terminated with RJ‐45 jacks
The customer typically provides a 20‐foot cable to interface between the spacecraft to EGSE
room wiring junction box and the spacecraft EGSE. SpaceX will connect the cable to the
junction box. SpaceX can provide this interface cable as a non‐standard service.

Wiring between the spacecraft umbilical junction box on the erector and the spacecraft
electrical ground support equipment (EGSE) in Room B‐10 consists of:
• 80 conductors of 18 AWG copper wiring
• 24 conductors of 22 AWG copper wiring
• 24 conductors of 12 AWG copper wiring
• 12 RG‐6 Coax cables
• 5 Cat‐6 Ethernet cables

Cable length between the EGSE interface box in room B‐10 and the erector quick disconnect is
175 feet, and from the quick disconnect to the spacecraft is approximately 180 feet. The wiring
given above is the wiring run up to the top of the tower. The maximum amount of conductors
to the spacecraft is limited by the quick disconnect connector at the vehicle skin and using the
ICD worksheet the customer needs to select which of the listed conductors to use.

Spacecraft electrical signals are carried from the erector junction box to the second stage
umbilical plate. At the umbilical plate, the spacecraft umbilical is mated to a dedicated
spacecraft electrical connector. SpaceX has the ability to modify the electrical connector to
provide different combinations of current, total pins, or coax capability. For example, the
spacecraft umbilical could be configured to provide:
• 120 signal contacts ‐‐ wire size 22 AWG, 4 amp current, or

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 43

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

• 24 signal contacts ‐‐ wire sizes 12 AWG, 17 amps current

There are no standard provisions for an electrical umbilical through the payload fairing to mate
with the payload.

From the umbilical plate, the payload harness(es) are routed along the exterior of the second
stage propellant tanks. Tunnel covers provide protection during ground operations and flight.
The payload electrical harnesses are then routed back inside the Falcon 9 along the payload
adapter. Electrical harnesses are mated to the spacecraft using SpaceX or customer‐supplied
electrical connectors. The Falcon 9 electrical interface to the spacecraft itself is typically one or
two in‐flight disconnect connectors that include a breakwire ground. SpaceX provides Deutsch
in‐flight disconnect(s) as a standard payload electrical interface. The connector designations for
the 37‐pin in‐flight disconnect are:
• D8174 E37‐0SN‐1A (Payload side)
• D8179 E37‐0PN‐1A (Launch Vehicle side)

Connectivity between the payload EGSE, located in the Instrumentation Bay below the launch
pad, and the payload is provided by an electrical umbilical. This umbilical is routed up the
erector and mates to the payload‐dedicated electrical connector on the second stage umbilical
plate.

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 44

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

Figure 5‐9 ‐ Spacecraft to Launch Vehicle/Launch Pad Electrical Architecture

Figure 5‐10 ‐ Spacecraft umbilical to Falcon 9 second stage connection

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 45

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

5.4. Payload Integration

While SpaceX does not require the payload to be at the launch site until two weeks prior to
launch, the Payload Processing Facility (PPF) will be made available for payload operations for
up to 3 weeks prior to launch at each of our sites. Additional time in the processing facility may
be available as a non‐standard service.

Figure 5‐11 – SLC‐40 Payload Processing Clean Area in Hangar

The PPF is a designated Clean Area within the hangar. A 33 ft tall clean area curtain provides
separation from the launch vehicle side of the hangar, while allowing the 34 ft bridge cranes
access to the entire hangar. An additional heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC)
system keeps the PPF at Class 100,000 or better. All payload activities including equipment
unload, unpacking/packing, payload checkout and hypergolic fueling may be performed in this
area.

SpaceX will monitor relative humidity, temperature and cleanliness in the payload processing
facility, with the exception of periods when the satellite is mated to the second stage and
during launch vehicle maneuvering on the pad.

As a non‐standard service, SpaceX will help arrange the use of AstroTech facilities near CCAFS
for payload processing.

5.4.1. Integration Schedule

At approximately launch minus 18 days, the integration process begins (see Figure 5‐14) and
includes the following:
• The payload is vertically integrated onto the payload adapter
• The payload and adapter are then installed on the breakover fixture, rotated
horizontally and encapsulated by the fairing in the PPF (NOTE: SpaceX has the capability
to encapsulate a payload in either a vertical or horizontal position using an

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 46

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

encapsulation breakover fixture. However, if encapsulation occurs in the SpaceX hangar

at the launch site, it must be performed horizontally.)
• The encapsulated payload is then moved horizontally to the launch vehicle/launch
complex
• Once inside the hangar at the launch complex, the encapsulated payload assembly is
mechanically mated to the launch vehicle
• Electrical umbilicals between the second stage and the payload are mated and the
payload is connected to electrical ground support equipment (if required)
• Following electrical interface verification, the entire launch vehicle is lifted onto the
erector
• The Falcon 9 launch vehicle is transported to the pad on the erector
• Final connections between ground support equipment, the launch mount, and Falcon 9
are made
o While on the pad, the vehicle goes vertical for necessary checkouts.
o There is no access to the payload while Falcon 9 is vertical.
• Access to the payload while the vehicle is outside of the Hangar on the launch pad
requires special accommodations and is a non‐standard service.
• Falcon 9 is launched

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 47

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

Figure 5‐12 ‐ Falcon 9 Payload Encapsulation

Figure 5‐13 – Encapsulated Payload Mate to Falcon 9 2nd Stage

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 48

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

Falcon 9 Launch Operations

L-16 Days L-15 Days L-14 Days L-10 Days L-7 Days L-6 Days L-4 Days L-3 Days L-2 Days L-1 Days

Range
Comm Erect LV LV
Checks Propellant
Stage Stage LV Load
Functionals Mate Simflight
LV
Launch Payload LV to Pad FTS Align
Stages Rollout to Launch
Vehicle Mate to Integrated Checks Vehicle
Arrive LV FTS Pad
Stage Leak Vehicle Checks
Ops Functional Health
checks Post-
Check Check Final launch
TVC
Ordnance Safing
Checkout
Connect

Launch Pad Erector Final

L-1 Pad Final Pad
Equipment Hydraulics Propellant
Checkouts Preps
Checkout Checkouts Top-off

Ground
Ops
Range
Launch Launch
Mission Readiness
Readiness Launch
Rehearsal Review
Review

Payload Payload
Payload Payload
Payload Checkout Payload Transfer to
Mate to Umbilical
Arrival and Encapsulation Integration
Adaptor Connect
Fueling Facility
Payload
Ops

NOTE: Payload Checkout and

Fueling typically will occur
before mating to the adapter

Figure 5‐14 ‐ Nominal Launch Operations Flow

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 49

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

5.4.2. Documentation Requirements

The payload customer is responsible for generating their own range, range safety, and Federal
Aviation Administration (FAA) documentation. However, SpaceX will facilitate the required
discussions and will coordinate submittals with the appropriate organizations. At a minimum,
the following documents must be provided:

• Program introduction to the range

• Spacecraft design overview with graphics
• Safety documentation including: hazard analyses and reports, vehicle break‐up models
(debris data) and detailed design and test information for all hazardous systems
(batteries, pressurized systems or other hazardous or safety critical materials, propellant
data)
• Launch site operations plan and detailed procedures (Note: hazardous procedures must
be approved by range safety)
• Interface verification statement
• Application for a payload determination (for non‐US Government payloads only)
• Environmental statement

In addition to these documents, input is required to support development of the ICD, launch
countdown procedures, and the Launch Readiness Review (LRR) package.

5.4.3. Standard Services

As part of any standard launch service, SpaceX provides the following:

• Personnel, services, hardware, equipment, documentation, reviews, analyses and
facilities necessary to support mission planning, launcher production, mission and
payload integration and launch
• One (1) preliminary coupled loads analysis and one (1) verification couple loads analysis
• ElectroMagnetic Compatibility (EMC) assessment
• One (1) flight set of electrical connectors
• Class 100,000 cleanroom integration space for the spacecraft for up to four weeks prior
to the scheduled launch date on the launch range with additional and adjacent square
feet for ground support equipment (GSE) and personnel
• Certified mechanical GSE to support physical mating of the spacecraft to the payload
adapter, encapsulate the fairing and integrate the encapsulated system onto the second
stage
• Conditioned air into the fairing
• A combination of up to three (3) payload access doors or RF windows in the fairing
• A mission simulation test exercising operational readiness, vehicle equipment and
ground systems
• A Mission Dress Rehearsal, similar to the mission simulation test, for key launch team
members

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 50

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

• Process the launch vehicle, integrate and encapsulate the payload, and test electrical
and signal interfaces with the spacecraft at the launch range
• Provide all range and safety interfaces (per AFSPCMAN 91‐710) document templates for
the spacecraft provider
• Facilitate the range and range safety integration process
• Launch the spacecraft into the specified orbit within the specified environmental
constraints
• Perform a Collision Avoidance Maneuver (as required)
• Support post‐flight analysis and generate a report documenting separation from the
launch vehicle, the spacecraft insertion orbit and confirmation that environments met
requirements
• Generate all mission required licensing including FAA and the State Department

5.4.4. Non‐standard Services

• Add a GN2 purge

• Class 10,000 cleanroom processing and air in the fairing
• Visibly clean Level 1
• Accommodation for spacecraft fueling in payload processing facility
• ElectroMagnetic Compatibility integrated power‐on testing
• Facilitate the use of AstroTech for payload processing
• Spin stabilization to rates as high as 5 rpm (dependent upon payload mass properties)

Other non‐standard services can be provided on a case‐by‐case basis.

For more information or inquiries about a specific non‐standard service, contact SpaceX or
include the information in the Payload Questionnaire found in Section 8 of this guide.

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 51

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

6. Launch Operations
Initial launches of the Falcon 9 will occur from SLC‐40 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station
(CCAFS) in Florida. SLC‐40 was previously used by the US Air Force for Titan III and Titan IV
launches. Launch azimuths from SLC‐40 support mid‐inclination and geosynchronous transfer
orbit missions. In addition, SpaceX has developed operational launch facilities at Omelek Island
on the Reagan Test Site (RTS) for Falcon 1 launches to a wide range of orbital inclinations.
Additional details on the launch sites are provided in Section 3.

Future plans include establishing Falcon 9 launch sites at Vandenberg Air Force Base (VAFB),
California and at the US Army Reagan Test Site on Kwajalein Atoll in the Central Pacific. The
candidate launch site at VAFB, pending discussions with the US Air Force, would be at Space
Launch Complex ‐ 4 East (SLC‐4E). The design of the Falcon 9 launch site at VAFB will mirror the
facilities and operations implemented at the Cape Canaveral launch site.

SpaceX makes pre‐launch operations as simple and streamlined as possible. SpaceX allows the
payload to be brought to the launch site as late as 2 weeks prior to launch. For customer
convenience, SpaceX can provide a clean area (<100k cleanliness) within the hangar at SLC‐40.
This capability provides for non‐hazardous spacecraft processing for up to 4 weeks as a
standard service. Hazardous fueling operations can also be performed in the hangar as a non‐
standard service. Alternatively, SpaceX can facilitate payload processing, including hazardous
operations, at AstroTech's payload processing facility in Florida as a non‐standard service. If a
spacecraft is processed at a facility other than SLC‐40, SpaceX will provide environmentally‐
controlled transportation from that facility to the hangar at the launch complex. Once the
satellite standalone checkouts are completed, and fairing encapsulation, integration to the
launch vehicle can be completed in approximately 24 hours.

SpaceX has the capability to encapsulate a payload in either a vertical or horizontal position
using an encapsulation breakover fixture. However, if encapsulation occurs in the SpaceX
hangar at the launch site, it must be performed horizontally. The payload is mated to the
payload adapter in the vertical configuration and then lifted onto the breakover fixture. Fairing
encapsulation can then occur in this configuration vertically, or the breakover fixture can be
rotated horizontally prior to encapsulation. Once fully encapsulated and horizontal, the
Environmental Control System (ECS) is connected and the encapsulated system is integrated to
the second stage. Post‐mate checkouts are conducted and followed by a Flight Readiness
Review (FRR).

Once the FRR is complete, preparations are made for vehicle roll‐out to the pad. The erector is
brought into the north end of the hangar and the entire launch vehicle is lifted and placed onto
the erector. Environmental control is maintained by connecting to the portable ECS. Then, the
T‐0 umbilical quick disconnects QDs are mated. A weather briefing is held, and after clearance
is received, the vehicle is rolled out to the pad. After rollout is complete, the portable ECS is

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 52

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

replaced with the payload air conditioning system that functions through liftoff, maintaining
environmental control. The vehicle is now ready to go vertical.

Figure 6‐1‐ Falcon 9 on the erector

Note that the integrated payload and launcher go vertical within 6 days of the lift off, however
the capability exists to easily return to horizontal, if necessary.

Once the vehicle is vertical a series of vehicle and range checks confirm operation of the launch
system. Twenty‐four hours prior to lift off, SpaceX confirms launch readiness with the range at
the Launch Readiness Review (LRR).

6.1. Launch Control Organization

SpaceX uses the organizational concepts established and demonstrated on Falcon 1 launches as
the basis for Falcon 9 missions. The main decision‐making components of the launch control
organization are shown in the table below. Note that these are not all the stations participating
in the launch, merely those that have input to the decision‐making process.

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 53

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

Table 6‐1 ‐ Launch Control Organization

Position Abbrev. Responsible Organization

Mission Director MD SpaceX standard
Customer—non‐standard service
Missile Flight Control Officer or MFCO/FSO Launch Range
Flight Safety Officer
Operations Safety Manager or OSM/GSO Launch Range
Ground Safety Officer
Launch Director LD SpaceX
Payload Director PM Payload Customer
Flow Director FD SpaceX
(Pad Operations)

The launch control organization and its lines of decision‐making are shown in the figure below.
Please note that this organization is somewhat dependent on the mission and customer. The
payload manager or his/her representative will sit at the Payload Station in the SpaceX Launch
Control Center (LCC).

Solid lines – Decision Tree

Dashed Lines – Communications Paths

Figure 6‐2 ‐ Launch Control Organization

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 54

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

6.2. Spacecraft Transport to Launch Site

There are two locations for the customer to bring in the payload and associated equipment at
Cape Canaveral; the Shuttle Landing Facility and the CCAFS Skid Strip. Upon arrival of the
spacecraft at either location, SpaceX will arrange, as a standard service, for the spacecraft
container and all associated test/support equipment to be offloaded from the plane and
transported to the hangar at SpaceX’s SLC‐40. This service can also be provided by AstroTech,
which SpaceX will facilitate as a non‐standard service.

6.2.1. Processing Services and Equipment

The services and equipment provided for satellite processing in the cleanroom area inside the
SpaceX hangar at SLC‐40 are outlined in Table 6‐2. SpaceX baselines a Class 100,000 clean
room facility for payload processing.
Table 6‐2 ‐ Services and equipment for satellite processing

Capability Space Launch Complex 40

Clean Room
Dimensions (H x D x W) – (ft) 47 x 75 x 75
Class 100,000
Temperature (°F) 70.0 +/‐ 15
Humidity (% RH) 20‐50
Overhead Crane
Hook height (ft) 34
Capacity (ton) 20 (2 total)
Lift rate (m/min) <3.0
Electrical (grounding per MIL‐STD 1542)
110V AC TBD
208V AC TBD
Office Space
Desks TBD
Ethernet/Internet TBD

Shop Air Yes

Security
Locking Facility Yes
Launch Site Badges Yes
Communications
Area Warning System Yes
Paging System Yes
Administrative Phone Yes

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 55

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

6.2.1.1. Fueling
Spacecraft fueling is not provided as a standard service in the SpaceX payload processing area
for the Falcon 9 launch vehicle family. Please contact SpaceX if this non‐standard service is
required.

6.2.1.2. Electrical Power Supply

The electrical power supplied in the payload processing area is shown in Table 6‐2. The Payload
Provider shall provide the necessary cables to interface GSE to payload processing room power.
The Payload Provider shall also define the power requirements for the payload in the launch
vehicle ICD.

6.2.1.3. Payload Monitoring and Control Space

TBD

6.2.1.4. Launch Control Center

The SpaceX Launch Control Center (LCC) is located at CCAFS. This facility, as illustrated in Figure
6‐3, is equipped with fiber optic connections to the launch site and a connection into CCAFS’s
main data system. This allows easy data transfers between the LCC, the pad, and the range,
along with required external users and agencies. The LCC has a primary control room, a support
room, a smaller auxiliary support room, and a conference room. The primary room has fourteen
consoles, the support room has eleven consoles, and the auxiliary room has eight.

SpaceX console design is modular, expandable, and completely modern. SpaceX uses standard
computer and display systems with software designed for industrial system control. Consoles
also include fully functional voice communications capabilities, including voice nets, voice‐over
IP integration with remote sites, and IP phones. Video viewing and control is provided using the
video over IP systems. SpaceX launch console systems are currently in use at our Texas Test
Facility and our Kwajalein launch control centers.

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 56

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

Choice of 2 more consoles

in these areas

Figure 6‐3 ‐ SpaceX Launch Control Center (Cape Canaveral)

6.2.1.5. Administrative
Customer administrative offices are currently under construction will be located within
SpaceX’s Falcon Support Building at SLC‐40.

6.3. Plans and Schedules

The launch vehicle to payload interfaces, payload environmental conditions, and general
capabilities are described in this guide. SpaceX will supply a single point of contact from
contract award through launch—your Mission Manager. The Mission Manager will assess the
launch vehicle capabilities and payload requirements throughout the integration process. This
process is accomplished by teleconferences, integration meetings and mission unique design
reviews (as required). The result of this process is documented in the Launch Vehicle to
Spacecraft ICD—the master document for any SpaceX mission. Following signature approval of
the ICD, configuration control is maintained by SpaceX. SpaceX also coordinates all aspects of

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 57

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

the launch vehicle production, range and range safety integration, and all mission required
licensing. The Mission Manager facilitates these interfaces for the Payload Provider.

Once the payload arrives at the launch site, the physical accommodation for the spacecraft is
turned over to the Payload Integration Manager—part of the operations crew. The Mission
Manager will continue to manage the customer interface at the launch site.

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 58

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

6.3.1. Mission Integration Plan

Table 6‐3 – Standard Launch Integration Process

Launch – 18 months or more Contract signing and authority to proceed

• Estimated payload mass, volume, mission, operations and
interface requirements
• Safety information (Safety Program Plan; Design
information: battery, ordnance, propellants, and
operations)
• Mission analysis summary provided to the Customer
within 30 days of contract
Launch – 6 months Final payload design, including: mass, volume, structural
characteristics, mission, operations, and interface requirements
• Payload to provide test verified structural dynamic model
Launch – 4 months Payload readiness review for Range Safety
• Launch site operations plan
• Hazard analyses
Launch – 3 months Verification
• Review of Payload test data verifying compatibility with
Falcon 9 environments
• Coupled payload and Falcon 9 loads analysis completed
• Confirm payload interfaces as built are compatible with
Falcon 9
• Mission safety approval
Launch – 4‐6 weeks System Readiness Review (SRR)
• Pre‐shipment review (per stage; prior to shipment to the
launch site) have occurred or are about to occur
• Verify launch site, Range, Regulatory agencies, launch
vehicle, payload, people and paper are all in place and
ready to begin launch campaign
Launch – 2‐4 weeks Payload arrival at launch location
Launch – 8‐9 days Payload encapsulation and mate to Launch Vehicle
Launch – 7 days Flight Readiness Review (FRR)
Review of LV and payload checkouts in Hangar. Confirmation of
readiness to proceed with Vehicle rollout
Launch – 1 day Launch Readiness Review (LRR)
Launch
Launch + 4 hours (depends Post‐Launch Reports‐ Quick look
upon length of Falcon 9 flight)

Launch + 4 weeks Post‐Launch Report‐ Final Report

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 59

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

6.3.2. Launch Vehicle Schedules

Falcon 9 missions and associated operations have been designed for minimal complexity and
minimal time at the pad. The payload will be integrated horizontally to the launcher
approximately 7 days prior to launch. Once integrated, the vehicle is moved to the pad and is
erected using the Falcon 9 Launch Vehicle erector. Final system close‐out, fueling and testing is
then completed. Twenty four hours prior to launch, the Launch Readiness Review (LRR) is held.
Once the launch approval is given, the 24‐hour countdown begins.

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 60

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

7. Safety
7.1. Safety Requirements

Falcon 9 customers are required to meet AFSPCMAN 91‐710 Range User's Manual
requirements in the design and operation of their flight and ground systems. These
requirements encompass mechanical design, electrical design, fluid and pressurant systems,
lifting and handling systems, ordnance and RF systems, ground support equipment, and other
design and operational features. SpaceX can assist the customer in determining which
requirements pertain to the customers systems, and can also assist in completing required
documentation.

7.2. Hazardous Systems and Operations

Most ranges consider hazardous systems or operations to include ordnance operations,
pressurized systems that operate below a 4‐to‐1 safety factor, lifting operations, operations or
systems that include toxic or hazardous materials, high power RF systems, laser systems, as
well as a variety of other systems and operations. The details of the system design and its
operation will determine whether the system or its operation are considered hazardous.
Typically, additional precautions are required for operating systems that are considered
hazardous, these will be determined during the safety approval process with SpaceX and the
launch range. All hazardous operations will require procedures that are approved by both
SpaceX and the launch range prior to execution. Ordnance operations, in particular, require
coordination to provide reduced RF environments, cleared areas, safety support, and other
requirements.

7.3. Waivers
For systems or operations that do not meet safety requirements but are believed to be
acceptable for ground operations and launch, a waiver is typically produced for approval by the
launch range safety authority. Waivers are a last resort solution and require considerable
coordination. They should not be considered a standard practice. SpaceX will assist the
customer in determining whether an issue should be elevated to require a waiver as the
integration process evolves.

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 61

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

8. Payload Questionnaire
Completion of the following Payload Questionnaire is necessary for use in evaluating the
compatibility of any new payload with Falcon 9 launch vehicles. If you are considering using
Falcon 9 launch vehicles, please complete as much of the questionnaire provided below and
return it to:
SpaceX
ATTN: Lauren Dreyer
1 Rocket Rd.
Hawthorne, CA 90250

lauren.dreyer@spacex.com

Note: SpaceX will treat all customer supplied data as proprietary information and will not
disclose or retransmit any part of the information contained herein to any outside entity
without the expressed written consent of your organization.

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 62

Payload Information

Payload Name/Title/Acronym

Payload Contractor or Sponsor

Points of Contact and Contact Information

Payload Mission Information

Desired Launch Date/Timeframe

Mission Timeline Description

Launch Window Constraints

Item Stowed Configuration Tolerance

X ±
Center of Gravity
Y ±
(mm)
Z ±

IXX ±
Moment of Inertia
IYY ±
(kg.mm2)
IZZ ±

IXY ±
Product of Inertia
IYZ ±
(kg.mm2)
IXZ ±
Payload Trajectory Requirements

Parameter Value SI Units

Desired Orbit Apogee km

Accuracy km

Desired Orbit Perigee km

Accuracy km

Desired Orbit Inclination deg

Accuracy deg

Desired Right Ascension of Ascending Node deg

Accuracy deg

Desired Argument of Perigee deg

Accuracy deg

Payload Orbital Injection Conditions

SI Units
Maximum Allowable Tip‐Off Rate deg/sec

Desired Spin‐Up Rate rpm

Pointing Requirement (Please Specify)

Maximum Allowable Pointing Error deg

Payload Mass Properties

SI Units
Spacecraft Mass (Maximum) kg

Spacecraft Coordinate System

Payload Mechanical Interface

SI Units
Spacecraft Height (Maximum) mm

Spacecraft Diameter (Maximum) mm

Fairing Access Door Location Preference

Mechanical Attachment Bolt Circle Diameter mm

Do you have a Spacecraft Separation System? If so, provide details here:

Note: SpaceX can design/provide the Spacecraft Separation System if desired.

Payload Thermal Environment

SI Units
Pre‐launch Temperature Range °C
grains/lb
Pre‐launch Allowable Water Vapor in Air
dry air
Maximum Pre‐launch Gas Impingement Velocity m/sec

Maximum Ascent Heat Flux W/m2

Maximum Free‐Molecular Heat Flux W/m2

Maximum Fairing Ascent Depressurization Rate mbar/sec

Payload Contamination Control

SI Units
Desired Payload Processing Capabilities Class

Desired Fairing Air Cleanliness Class

Payload Dynamic Environment

SI Units
dB
Maximum Allowable Acoustic Sound Pressure Level
OASPL
Maximum Allowable Sine Vibration Grms

Maximum Allowable Shock g

Maximum Lateral Acceleration g

Maximum Axial Acceleration g

Fundamental Frequency ‐ Lateral Hz

Fundamental Frequency ‐ Longitudinal Hz

Additional Data:
1. Please provide a description of the payload testing planned during payload processing at
the launch site, as well as any testing planned while encapsulated. Please describe each
test in terms of personnel required, duration of test, tools/GSE required, and any possible
safety concerns that should be considered.

2. Please describe any safety issues associated with the spacecraft.

3. Please describe the propulsion systems to be used on the spacecraft.

4. Please describe the pressure vessels to be used on the spacecraft.

5. Please describe the power systems (batteries, solar cells, etc).

6. Please describe the RF systems to be used on the spacecraft. Please detail each RF
transmitter or receiver, its function, frequency, sensitivity, power output, and bandwidth.

7. Please provide the spacecraft allowable or test acoustic profile, random vibration
spectrum, shock spectrum, and sine vibration curve.

8. Please provide Dimensional Drawings and/or CAD models of the spacecraft if available.
These drawings/models should include the spacecraft separation system. Rather than
attaching to this PDF, if you prefer to send these via email, please submit to
Lauren@spacex.com.

9. Please describe any security concerns or requirements you have.

10. Please describe any additional spacecraft requirements that we should be made aware of.
 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

9. Quick Reference
9.1. List of Figures
Figure 2‐1 ‐ Falcon 9 launch vehicle layout and coordinate system............................................. 11
Figure 3‐1‐ Hawthorne, California Headquarters ......................................................................... 12
Figure 3‐2 ‐ Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (CCAFS),
Florida ...................................................................................................................... 12
Figure 3‐3 ‐ Space Launch Complex 40 Instrumentation Bay location ......................................... 13
Figure 3‐4 ‐ Space Launch Complex 40 Hangar layout ................................................................ 14
Figure 3‐5 ‐ SLC‐4 East, VAFB ....................................................................................................... 15
Figure 3‐6 ‐ Falcon 1 launch site, Kwajalein Atoll ......................................................................... 16
Figure 3‐7 ‐ SpaceX’s Texas Test Facility ....................................................................................... 17
Figure 4‐1 ‐ Falcon 9 Block 2 Performance to Low Earth Orbit (Cape Canaveral) ........................ 19
Figure 4‐2 ‐ Falcon 9 Block 2 Performance ‐ Circular Polar Orbit ................................................. 20
Figure 4‐3 ‐ Falcon 9 Block 2 Performance ‐ Sun Synchronous Orbit ........................................... 21
Figure 4‐4 ‐ Falcon 9 Block 2 Performance ‐ Escape Velocity (Cape Canaveral) .......................... 22
Figure 4‐5 ‐ Falcon 9 Block 2 Performance to Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit ........................... 23
Figure 4‐6 ‐ Falcon 9 Block 2 Performance to Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit
(Kwajalein) ............................................................................................................... 24
Figure 4‐7 ‐ Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (Delta‐Velocity To Go) from Cape.......................... 25
Figure 4‐8 ‐ Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (Delta‐Velocity To Go) from Kwaj .......................... 26
Figure 4‐9 ‐ Falcon 9 Sample Flight Profile, Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit
Mission .................................................................................................................... 27
Figure 5‐1 ‐ Falcon 9 standard fairing and dynamic envelope*, meters [inches] ........................ 30
Figure 5‐2 ‐ Falcon 9 Design Load Factors .................................................................................... 33
Figure 5‐3 ‐ Falcon 9 shock response at payload interface .......................................................... 34
Figure 5‐4 ‐ Falcon 9 acoustic environment requirement (OASPL=139.6 dB) .............................. 35
Figure 5‐5 – Falcon 9 Worst Case Radiated Environment ............................................................ 38
Figure 5‐6 ‐ Allowable Payload Radiated Emissions for Falcon 9 RF
Susceptibility ........................................................................................................... 39
Figure 5‐7 ‐ Maximum Payload Fairing Temperature Seen By Payload ....................................... 40
Figure 5‐8‐ Falcon 9 Payload Interface Ring (Note: units are in inches)....................................... 42
Figure 5‐9 ‐ Spacecraft to Launch Vehicle/Launch Pad Electrical Architecture ........................... 45
Figure 5‐10 ‐ Spacecraft umbilical to Falcon 9 second stage connection..................................... 45
Figure 5‐11 – SLC‐40 Payload Processing Clean Area in Hangar .................................................. 46
Figure 5‐12 ‐ Falcon 9 Payload Encapsulation .............................................................................. 48
Figure 5‐13 – Encapsulated Payload Mate to Falcon 9 2nd Stage ................................................. 48
Figure 5‐14 ‐ Nominal Launch Operations Flow ........................................................................... 49
Figure 6‐1‐ Falcon 9 on the erector .............................................................................................. 53
Figure 6‐2 ‐ Launch Control Organization ..................................................................................... 54
Figure 6‐3 ‐ SpaceX Launch Control Center (Cape Canaveral) ...................................................... 57

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 63

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

9.2. List of Tables

Table 2‐1 ‐ Falcon 9 Launch Vehicle (Block 2) Dimensions and Characteristics ........................... 10
Table 4‐1 ‐ Falcon 9 Block 2 Performance to Low Earth Orbit (Cape Canaveral) ......................... 19
Table 4‐2 Falcon 9 Block 2 Performance ‐ Circular Polar Orbit .................................................... 20
Table 4‐3 ‐ Falcon 9 Block 2 Performance ‐ Sun Synchronous Orbit ............................................ 21
Table 4‐4 ‐ Falcon 9 Block 2 Performance ‐ Escape Velocity (Cape Canaveral) ............................ 22
Table 4‐5 ‐ Falcon 9 Block 2 Performance to Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit ............................ 23
Table 4‐6 ‐ Falcon 9 Block 2 Performance to Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit
(Kwajalein) ............................................................................................................... 24
Table 4‐7 ‐ Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (Delta‐Velocity To Go) from Cape ........................... 25
Table 4‐8 ‐ Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (Delta‐Velocity To Go) from Kwaj ........................... 26
Table 4‐9 ‐ Falcon 9 Sample Flight Timeline, Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit
Mission .................................................................................................................... 28
Table 5‐1 ‐ Falcon 9 acoustic environment ................................................................................... 35
Table 5‐2 ‐ Falcon 9 Launch vehicle RF system characteristics.................................................... 37
Table 6‐1 ‐ Launch Control Organization ...................................................................................... 54
Table 6‐2 ‐ Services and equipment for satellite processing ........................................................ 55
Table 6‐3 – Standard Launch Integration Process ........................................................................ 59

9.3. List of Acronyms

AWG ............................................................................................................... American Wire Gauge
CAM.................................................................................................. Collision Avoidance Maneuver
CCAFS .......................................................................................... Cape Canaveral Air Force Station
CLA ............................................................................................................... Coupled Loads Analysis
CVCM...................................................................... Collected Volatile Condensable Mass/Material
DRM ............................................................................................................ Data Recovery Matrices
FAA ................................................................................................. Federal Aviation Administration
FRR .............................................................................................................. Flight Readiness Review
GN2 ........................................................................................................................ Gaseous Nitrogen
GPS .......................................................................................................... Global Positioning System
GSE ........................................................................................................ Ground Support Equipment
ICD ........................................................................................................ Interface Control Document
IPS....................................................................................................................... Inch‐Pound‐Second
LRR ........................................................................................................... Launch Readiness Review
LV............................................................................................................................... Launch Vehicle
MPE ........................................................................................... Maximum Predicted Environments
Max‐Q.................................................................................................. Maximum Dynamic Pressure
OASPL .................................................................................................Overall Sound Pressure Level
PPF.......................................................................................................... Payload Processing Facility
QD ......................................................................................................................... Quick Disconnect
RF............................................................................................................................ Radio Frequency

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 64

 Falcon 9 User’s Guide

RPM ................................................................................................................. Rotations per Minute

RTS............................................................................................................................. Reagan Test Sit
SC...................................................................................................................................... Spacecraft
SI ......................................................................................................... International System of Units
SLC ................................................................................................................ Space Launch Complex
SpaceX ............................................................................................ Space Exploration Technologies
SPL .................................................................................................................. Sound Pressure Level
SRR ........................................................................................................... System Readiness Review
VC .................................................................................................................................. Visibly Clean
TML .......................................................................................................................... Total Mass Loss
TTL .......................................................................................................... Transistor–Transistor Logic
US .................................................................................................................................United States

SCM 2008‐010 Rev. 1 Copyright ‐‐ SpaceX 2009 65