Fastest ground launched aeroplane ever !
I tinkered a rail launch ramp according to this:
Based on this data; https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rocket_sled_launch
Due to factors including the exponential nature of the rocket equation and higher propulsive efficiency than if a rocket takes off stationary, a NASA Maglifter study estimated that a 270 m/s (600 mph) launch of an ELV rocket from a 3000-meter altitude mountain peak could increase payload to LEO by 80% compared to the same rocket from a conventional launch pad.[5] Mountains of such height are available within the mainland U.S. for the easiest logistics, or nearer to the Equator for a little more gain from Earth's rotation. Among other possibilities, a larger single-stage-to-orbit (SSTO) could be reduced in liftoff mass by 35% with such launch assist, dropping to 4 instead of 6 engines in one case considered.[5]
This is just a dream..not a real project..but could be realized with "pocket change" !
It could reach M7 at 380 000 ft. In re-entry just 1/8 of the wing loading of the shuttle.
I did check that X-15 engine was 50:1 TWR as new SpaceX engines are 200:1 TWR systems...so it is very doable....but engine must be custom made.
Based on this data; https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rocket_sled_launch
Due to factors including the exponential nature of the rocket equation and higher propulsive efficiency than if a rocket takes off stationary, a NASA Maglifter study estimated that a 270 m/s (600 mph) launch of an ELV rocket from a 3000-meter altitude mountain peak could increase payload to LEO by 80% compared to the same rocket from a conventional launch pad.[5] Mountains of such height are available within the mainland U.S. for the easiest logistics, or nearer to the Equator for a little more gain from Earth's rotation. Among other possibilities, a larger single-stage-to-orbit (SSTO) could be reduced in liftoff mass by 35% with such launch assist, dropping to 4 instead of 6 engines in one case considered.[5]
This is just a dream..not a real project..but could be realized with "pocket change" !
It could reach M7 at 380 000 ft. In re-entry just 1/8 of the wing loading of the shuttle.
I did check that X-15 engine was 50:1 TWR as new SpaceX engines are 200:1 TWR systems...so it is very doable....but engine must be custom made.
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