[sci.space] private spaceplane

kluksdah@enuxha.eas.asu.edu (Norman C. Kluksdahl) (05/18/89)

First, I will make the necessary apologies for cluttering this group with
what others may consider to be irrelevant junk.

That done, I'll get right to the heart of the matter.  Several months ago,
a flurry of postings circulated about a private spaceplane effort.  I undertook
the task of organizing a mailing list, and am trying to provide at least
some direction to an effort to see if a private spaceplane is viable.
First, the group will design a small-scale (i.e. homebuilt, garage scale)
       spaceplane.
Second, (and potentially more fun) the group will work on financing and 
       building this spaceplane.  (This is far in the future!)

One consequence is that we will become educated on the design tradeoffs,
etc. as we try our collective hand at spacecraft design.  Perhaps actual
construction is beyond the group--at this stage, none of us knows.  Even
so, the educational experience should be interesting.

If you are interested in joining the effort, or merely in following the
progress, all you need do is reply, and your name will be added to the 
list.  Please indicate with a brief letter what your background is, and
how you would like to participate.


**********************************************************************
Norman Kluksdahl              Arizona State University
            ..ncar!noao!asuvax!enuxha!kluksdah
             kluksdah@enuxha.eas.asu.edu

alternate:   kluksdah@enuxc1.eas.asu.edu

standard disclaimer implied