I worked with Masten Space to develop Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) rocket vehicles. Early work included avionics, wiring, grounding, valve design, actuator design, and controls.
The 2009 Northrop Grumman Lunar Landing Challenge presented an interesting challenge. During the first attempt to win the first prize with a $1 million purse, the flight vehicle caught fire after landing due to a fuel leak. I assembled and led a team of volunteers to repair, rewire, and rebuild the vehicle overnight. Masten Space employees were not involved as they needed sleep after preparing for 2 weeks. Without detailed knowledge of the vehicle design and with an inexperienced crew, we set up tools, procedures, and workspaces to repair the damaged wiring harnesses and engine components. We fabricated a drip pan for the fuel leak from a trash can lid and installed it with a drain on a landing leg. With time running out, we wired and soldered live circuits while conducting system checks. The vehicle was turned over to the Masten Space team at 6:00 the next morning. The second flight was successful, and the elated team is pictured below.
YouTube link: Masten’s Oct 29 flight for Level2 of Northrop Grumman Lunar Lander X PRIZE Challenge 2009