VGoFT

Vanguard Orbital Flight Test is the first crewed orbital mission of the Horizon Space shuttle program. The flight is designed to prove that Vanguard can launch, operate in orbit, manage payload bay systems, de-orbit, re-enter, and land safely as a reusable shuttle.

The mission carries Jebadiah Kerman and Valentina Kerman on a short-duration but high-value test flight that establishes the entire program.

Vehicle: Vanguard Orbit: Low Kerbin Orbit Duration: 1 to 2 days Flight type: Crewed test

Mission Objectives.txt

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Primary mission goal: demonstrate that Vanguard can complete a full end-to-end crewed orbital mission and return safely as an operational shuttle.

Why this goal works

For a first shuttle mission, the best choice is a disciplined systems-validation flight rather than a complex docking or deployment mission. It proves the vehicle itself first and makes later operational missions feel earned.

Success criteria

Reach stable orbit around Kerbin
Open and close payload bay doors
Verify RCS and orbital manoeuvring
Support crew operations on orbit
Perform de-orbit burn
Complete controlled re-entry
Land intact on a runway

Crew roles

Jebadiah Kerman works as mission commander and test pilot, while Valentina Kerman serves as pilot and systems specialist. That gives the mission a proper two-person flight test structure.

Flight Timeline - Vanguard Orbital Flight Test

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Launch

Ascent to orbit. Perform the first crewed launch of Vanguard and insert into a stable low orbit around Kerbin.

Orbit Day 1

Systems checkout. Test payload bay door operations, thermal configuration, RCS handling, crew procedures, and shuttle attitude control.

Orbit Day 1 to 2

Flight handling demonstration. Conduct a small orbital manoeuvre, verify guidance performance, and document the vehicle in orbit.

De-orbit

Return sequence. Close the bay, perform de-orbit burn, hold entry attitude, and guide the orbiter through atmospheric descent.

Landing

Runway touchdown. Finish the mission with a clean landing to prove Vanguard is ready for more ambitious flights.

Program Roadmap

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VG-2

First payload deployment mission carrying a small satellite or scientific package from the payload bay.

VG-3

Rendezvous and proximity operations test with a target craft or small orbital platform.

VG-4

Operational logistics flight delivering cargo, equipment, or crew to a permanent Horizon Space outpost.

Status

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Horizon Space mission page active Program focus: Vanguard Orbital Flight Test Crew: Jebadiah Kerman / Valentina Kerman