[amsat-bb] Re: LEO launch?

[G0MRF@aol.com]

In a message dated 27/07/2008 19:32:26 GMT Standard Time, w7lrd at comcast.net  
writes:

Near the  end of this article they mention a LEO launch vehicle.  Something 
to  think  about!
http://www.comcast.net/articles/news-science/20080726/TEC.Space.Tourism/
73  Bob W7LRD
Seattle




Hi Bob.
 
Sadly I think the general approach to Virgin Galactic's space tourism is  
incompaible with small satellites as we know them.
 
The Virgin / Rutan plan takes people into space, but with zero relative  
velocity to the earth. This means that gravity will cause their spaceship 2 and  
any satellite to fall straight back down.
 
To achieve orbit, the satellite would need propulsion capable of generating  
about 18,000 miles per hour of 'horizontal' motion + a bit more altitude would 
 be nice too. Easier than launching from the earth. No friction from the  
atmosphere, but still a very difficult task.
 
73
 
David