Re: Space Shuttle Grounding....depressing....


Chris Adams wrote:
> Once upon a time, Matt Ion <soundy@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx> said:
> >The ideal spacecraft, of course, is a fully reusable, heavy-lift vehicle
> >that can reach orbit entirely under its own power, and return under its
> >own power (gliding is efficient but limiting).
>
> The problem is that it doesn't appear that current engine and materials
> technology is sufficient for such a vehicle.
> --
> Chris Adams <cmadams@xxxxxxxxxx>

I think it's worth noting the entire quote.

"It always comes down to money.

The ideal spacecraft, of course, is a fully reusable, heavy-lift
vehicle
that can reach orbit entirely under its own power, and return under its

own power (gliding is efficient but limiting). The shuttle was only
ever intended to be a stepping stone to that end. "


It is a matter of money and stepping stone I think were the original
points.


.

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