The Future of Space Travel: Rockets vs. Plane-Like Designs
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The Evolution of Space Travel
To begin our exploration, it's important to note that even the space shuttle relied on rockets for its launch from Earth (see image below). Its design allowed for landing on conventional runways, but achieving a plane-like takeoff would necessitate a different wing configuration, increased fuel consumption, and, ultimately, higher costs.
To avoid delving into the complexities of rocket aerodynamics, it's sufficient to acknowledge that their shape—typically conical or cylindrical—serves a crucial purpose.
Photo by NASA on Unsplash
The rationale behind rocket design is straightforward: to propel an object off the ground and into space as quickly as possible. Escaping Earth’s gravitational pull efficiently allows for fuel savings, reduced weight, and lower expenses. Therefore, rockets aim to ascend vertically while minimizing air resistance. The cylindrical shape not only offers maximum structural integrity—similar to trees bending in strong winds—but also optimizes space for crew and equipment.
The Limitations of Airplanes in Space
It’s essential to recognize that airplanes depend on air flowing over their wings to generate lift. In the vacuum of space, air is virtually non-existent. All spacecraft, including the space shuttle, carry the necessary components to create thrust. Without these, objects either continue on their original trajectory or are influenced by cosmic forces.
Interestingly, there is an airplane-like spacecraft in development called Sierra Space’s Dream Chaser®. However, even this "space plane" will launch atop a rocket.
And there’s a more unconventional concept to consider:
The first video, "Can You Really Fly a Plane to Space? - Kerbal Gets Real Redux #7," delves into the possibilities of aircraft-style designs for space travel, challenging traditional notions of rocket technology.
Innovative Approaches to Space Manufacturing
For the foreseeable future, rockets will likely remain the primary vehicles for space travel until we can manufacture entire spacecraft in orbit. The International Space Station (ISS) was partially constructed in this manner; modules were individually built on Earth and assembled in space.
Since 2017, the ISS has also utilized 3D printers from Made In Space, Inc. Their long-term vision includes deploying these printers on the Moon, Mars, and beyond, allowing for on-site production of essential equipment as needed. According to the CEO of Relativity Space, even entire rockets could potentially be 3D printed as required.
Japanese firm Mitsubishi has already unveiled designs for an automated factory in space that could manufacture satellite antennas in ways not feasible on Earth. By eliminating the need to withstand the forces of ascent from Earth, a new realm of possibilities opens up. Moreover, manufacturers would no longer be constrained by size and weight limitations typically imposed by rocket dimensions.
Which of these futuristic innovations would you most like to see realized?
The second video, "Why Don't They Launch Rockets From Aircraft?" investigates the logistics and challenges of launching rockets from airborne platforms, contributing to the broader discussion on space travel methods.