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Lockheed Martin Tests New Spacecraft Prototype

Posted by ScuttleMonkey on from the everything-done-by-remote-control-in-the-future dept.

Hmmzis writes to tell us that Lockheed Martin is using Spaceport America to test a new prototype spacecraft. The prototype is only about one-fifth the size of the projected production model which promises to deliver satellites into orbit at a cheaper cost. "It looks a bit like the space shuttle and would fly to space and return the same way. But even the big version would not carry people, just satellites. The goal is to get to orbit faster and cheaper thanks to an automated reusable spacecraft run by its own computers and just a handful of people for a launch crew."

4 of 93 comments (clear)

  1. Automated by calebt3 · · Score: 5, Insightful

    The goal is to get to orbit faster and cheaper thanks to an automated reusable spacecraft run by its own computers and just a handful of people for a launch crew. Of course automated systems would be better for launching satellites.
    There is no need for: Retaining an atmosphere
    Heating/Cooling
    Recyling water (or even bringing water in the first place)
    Food
    Multiple/redundant backups for life support
    Radiation shielding (at least not as much)
    Fuel to hoist it all up.
  2. On the dole by dj245 · · Score: 3, Insightful

    "On April 22 Sierra County residents will vote on a quarter-cent sales tax to help pay for the spaceport. Neighboring Dona Ana County has already approved a similar tax, and Otero County has yet to schedule a vote."

    I think this should be the story here. Why should state taxpayers dumping money in Lockheed's pockets? I have never seen a subsidy or bounty (as they were called long ago) that did more good than harm.

    Yeah I know, its America and that the way things work now. But that doesn't mean these actions shouldn't provoke outcry.

    --
    Even those who arrange and design shrubberies are under considerable economic stress at this period in history.
  3. Re:How about the reverse trip by calebt3 · · Score: 2, Insightful

    Because it would take extensive maneuvering to get near and catch a simple bolt. Then you have more extensive maneuvering to get the nut a hundred feet away. Rinse and Repeat.

  4. Re:How about the reverse trip by scarpa · · Score: 2, Insightful

    The junk is far more likely to damage new or existing satellites than any African villager.