F9R - VTOL rocket flight test

[John_Cillis 2,406]

I thought members would enjoy seeing this.  Over the next several years this will advance spaceflight as we know it...

 

 

John

[n4gix 4,947]

While technically a very nice demonstration, I simply cannot imagine lifting enough fuel to allow for a controlled vertical descent from space.

[RWFeldman 159]

"Man was meant to fly he would have been given wings."

[John_Cillis 2,406]

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

[mabe54 17]

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,

[n4gix 4,947]

Actually, what I find most fascinating is the demonstrated ability to keep that very long and unwieldy 'candle' balanced so adroitly!