MKremer - 16/9/2005 10:48 AMThe inline SDLV will probably be the only launcher with the size and power capable to launch them. For the truss structures and larger modules a support structure would need to be pretty big and massive to limit the loads and vibrations (plus include a number of batteries or a fuel cell for power), not to mention the 5 meter or more required diameter. You're talking as much as 4 to 5 tons or more of extra 'dead' mass as well as the mass of the ISS component.
I wonder if a grass-roots effort will do any good? I know that from where I come from there are many people who could care less about the space program, and my own grandfather *cough cough* is against it. There is very little media attention in local newspapers, and when it comes right down to it, those issues that are talked about in those local papers are the issues that the general public are concerned with!
So, I was going to create an article that was going to paint a great picture of the future of NASA space exploration, and send it to the two local newspapers in my county. We'll see what good it will do. I'm hoping it gets some response...
Chris Bergin - 18/9/2005 9:55 AMGraphics like the one posted from the Orlando Sentinal do not inspire the public and they are voters and they could become 'bored' with this. You don't want uninterested voters when it comes to the White House.
I've even seen it by way of what picture you put with a story. You put an image of a Delta on, it gets half as much interest by way of readership than one with a Shuttle or an Orbiter on it - regardless of the story, and we're talking a space flight related site!
While I know people on here are obviously correct in the "so long as it works....we get out of LEO etc,etc." but it HAS to be presented as "exciting and cool" because the media does not find it viable to serve the 'space geek' element and I personally believe that the general public need to be interested or politicians will start to wonder in terms of voters interest.
realtime - 18/9/2005 1:27 PMAbsolutely. NASA needs a PR department that could sell shoes to a snake -- a snake with A.D.D.