Noshow wrote:Could there be any big military payload waiting to be launched? It's big size capability does not seem to be needed for most commercial satellites today.
Stratolaunch is a "midsized" vehicle. As mentioned by WIederling, payload is approximately 6,000 kg to LEO and 2,000 kg to GTO. That's equivalent to a Delta II. By contrast, vehicles like the Atlas V, Ariane V, and Falcon 9 are generally 4,000 - 8,000 kg to GEO orbit (or more) depending on vehicle configuration.
Does the military have need for a carrier aircraft like the NB-52? Not to my knowledge and not likely to merit a custom-built aircraft.
AirlineCritic wrote:It does look very, very weird. I wish them luck. Would be great to see this actually take off (in the business sense, too).
As an engineer and enthusiast, I love seeing experimental projects like this. It will be remarkable to see this beast fly. Just watching it taxi at 40 knots its pretty cool.
I share the widespread skepticism of the business case. It's a lot of overhead. The past experience of SeaLaunch and Orbital ATK have not made a compelling case that the range flexibility, simplified facilities, or performance boost from mobile launchers results in a competitive advantage.
Maybe it can find a role in a space tourism capacity? I don't know. Virgin Galactic already has a carrier aircraft of their own.
I have a three post per topic limit. You're welcome to have the last word.