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9 votes
5 answers
5k views

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 ...
Bidal's user avatar
  • 107
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?
Muze's user avatar
  • 1
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 ...
Muze's user avatar
  • 1
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 ...
Brondahl's user avatar
  • 181