David@sri-unix (07/13/82)
Perhaps pride is enough reason to embark on a space program, or certainly
profits. Look at the European Ariane for example. I find it hard to believe
that Europe is looking for military space capability. As for profits, the
vehicle was designed as an inexpensive way to orbit payloads (and compete for
business with the shuttle). This week's "Aviation Week & Space Technology"
has an article "Europe Considers Future Manned Role in Space". In this article
is mentioned ideas for a European manned orbital vehicle, including France's
Hermes (a small winged vehicle). It seems to me that with joint Soviet missions
and Spacelab missions with the US that the only reason to do it yourself is
patriotism. It will be interesting to see whether Brazil ever launches a manned
space vehicle...
Dave.
-------