Re:Musk explains why SpaceX prefers clusters of small engines
by simonh on Thursday February 08, 2018 @05:18PM
(#16336096)
It’s possible, they might gradually start using the three engines for longer, then maybe even use more engines. I doubt the last part though, the burns aren’t for very long already and I think 3 engines probably gives plenty of kick. There’s also the issue of fuel flow dynamics to the engines, but only SpaceX will have any idea about that.
Interesting about the final part of the landing occurring with a single engine even with a 3 engine landing. Makes me wonder why they don't do something like 9 engines for the breaking burn and then switch to a single engine for the landing part. It might just be that is their final plan but 3 is easier to test than 9.