All Questions
4
questions
9
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Why do space rockets not start from an angle? Why go straight up? [duplicate]
I know that they used to have this idea, back in the day, of a "space gun" to fire somebody into space, and I understand why that was not safe or practical/feasible.
However, once they had come up ...
4
votes
2
answers
457
views
Could a fat rocket be used on Mars?
Since Mars' atmosphere is around 2% the density of Earth's then could a much wider rocket achieve orbit?
Could the rocket be in the shape of a capsule or an optimal shape for reentry on Earth?
2
votes
0
answers
66
views
How to make a orbital launch tube work?
Normal rockets would not work in a pressurized tube, but could a stage be made for the diagonal launch tube to save fuel and weight? Can the bottom stage be nuclear powered?
Unlike the piston launch ...
8
votes
2
answers
878
views
Is engine thrust noticeably increased near the ground?
I know next to nothing about rocketry and space flight.
I assume that the majority of the force generated by a rocket's engine is simply the result of throwing gasses out of the bottom very fast, and ...