The only way I can see another “space-plane” design is if we actually get skyhooks working. As long as we are using rockets it doesn’t make sense. Sure it was cool AF when we were kids, but yeah, the design is just a safety nightmare
It is my understanding that at least one small, unmanned space plane is in use by the US military. Something small enough to fit in the payload fairing of a commercial or military rocket that can be put in space, flown for a little while then landed at an air force base probably serves some function.
But I’m convinced large space planes on the order of the space shuttle are now museum pieces and/or debris.
The only way I can see another “space-plane” design is if we actually get skyhooks working. As long as we are using rockets it doesn’t make sense. Sure it was cool AF when we were kids, but yeah, the design is just a safety nightmare
It is my understanding that at least one small, unmanned space plane is in use by the US military. Something small enough to fit in the payload fairing of a commercial or military rocket that can be put in space, flown for a little while then landed at an air force base probably serves some function.
But I’m convinced large space planes on the order of the space shuttle are now museum pieces and/or debris.