/sci/ - Science & Math

>>16163427
fr fr no capsule on orbit

>>15503546
WE'RE BACK

>>15402287
Just use a solid first stage and then reuse the second stage.

>>15359385
Clamshell doors, duh.

>>15027941
*STS

>>14986926
As awesome as the orbiter could be, I don't think anyone really misses the janky ground ops of the Shuttle besides Richard Shelby.

>>14986928
1am Eastern is 10pm Pacific so yes.

>>14884053
I just realized that the Space Shuttle was the first generation of space fighter.
>satellite snatch and grab
>space station boarding actions
>high cross range for orbital maneuverability and flexible return
The last one alone drives the chinks crazy about the X-37B, which is a prototype for a second generation space fighter. A third generation space fighter would meet or exceed all of the Space Shuttle's capabilities plus have lasers and autocannons for ranged combat, and a much better OMS.
>why an autocannon?
Guns are kinetic kill vehicles you can't jam, laser-kill, mirror, or shield against with any near future spacecraft design.

>>14818908
>>14818948
Reconsider the decision to retire the shuttle before a replacement was found in this light. This country was, and to a degree still is, being deliberately dismantled. Yes, the shuttle was deeply flawed, but it beats the hell out of NO manned space program.

>>14590365
>What would a current-tech space warship look like?
It would need the ability to forcibly dock with and seize enemy satellites/spacecraft and downmass them, a large crew for boarding actions, and a shitload of cross-range to get home from random intercept maneuvers.