April 20, 201412 yr I thought members would enjoy seeing this. Over the next several years this will advance spaceflight as we know it... John
April 20, 201412 yr Moderator While technically a very nice demonstration, I simply cannot imagine lifting enough fuel to allow for a controlled vertical descent from space. Fr. Bill AOPA Member: 07141481 AARP Member: 3209010556 Avsim Board of Directors | Avsim Forums Moderator
April 20, 201412 yr While technically a very nice demonstration, I simply cannot imagine lifting enough fuel to allow for a controlled vertical descent from space. I would imagine that the rocket would freefall until a determined altitude, like a ballistic missle, until it got within 300-500 m above the ground. I agree--a vertical descent from space would be impossible. It does remind me of the Andy Griffith show Salvage 1 -- remember that? It envisioned a similar VTOL rocket... http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salvage_1 John
April 21, 201412 yr This is just the beginning to get controls data. They will improve it for sure. Later something will be added to first slow down significantly the speed after reentry minimizing fuel requirements before the application of the rockets for the final landing. Cheers,
April 21, 201412 yr Moderator Actually, what I find most fascinating is the demonstrated ability to keep that very long and unwieldy 'candle' balanced so adroitly! Fr. Bill AOPA Member: 07141481 AARP Member: 3209010556 Avsim Board of Directors | Avsim Forums Moderator
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