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Why does the Soyuz cover its main engine?

  1. Dec 10, 2014 #1

    Ganesh Ujwal

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    As seen in Gravity, and also in this youtube video: , the Soyuz main engine is covered by a metal plate that it mechanically moved out of the way before firing. What is the function of this covering?
     
    Ganesh Ujwal, Dec 10, 2014
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  3. Dec 10, 2014 #2

    DaveC426913

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    That's a 20 minute video. I don't suppose you'd care to narrow down the segment in question?
     
    DaveC426913, Dec 10, 2014
  4. Dec 10, 2014 #3

    Bandersnatch

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    (8:13)

    My naive guess would be a micrometeorite cover.
     
    Bandersnatch, Dec 10, 2014
  5. Dec 10, 2014 #4

    DaveC426913

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    That was my thought too. Lots of things you wouldn't want getting into your handbasket-to-home. Bolts, wrenches, vapour, huge temperature gradients.
     
    DaveC426913, Dec 10, 2014
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