Everyone was holding their breath when at exactly 11:59 am the plug emitted a groan and several sharp cracks shuttered throughout the composite shop. Suddenly there was separation. Note the laser like sharpness of the chines and the flawless finish of the mold. With mixed feeling we all say goodbye to the plug – which tragically will be scrapped. Nevertheless it was grounds for celebration for having reached this first major milestone in our Alpha 4201 build. A flag was hung in celebration.