News Microsofts, Paul Allen, Supersizing Space Flight

[Capt_hensley]

Microsoft Corp. co-founder Paul Allen indicated he is prepared to commit $200 million or more of his wealth to build the world's largest airplane as a mobile platform for launching satellites at low cost, which he believes could transform the space industry.

Announced Tuesday, the novel, high-risk project conceived by renowned aerospace designer Burt Rutan seeks to combine engines, landing gears and other parts removed from old Boeing 747 jets with a newly created composite craft from Mr. Rutan and a powerful rocket to be built by a company run by Internet billionaire and commercial-space pioneer Elon Musk.

Dubbed Stratolaunch and funded by one of Mr. Allen's closely held entities, the venture seeks to meld decades-old airplane technology with cutting-edge booster-rocket designs in an unprecedented way to assemble a hybrid that would offer the first totally privately funded space transportation system.

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http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970203518404577096493595261190.html

 

[jangofett287]

Hang on, haven't we seen this idea before?

 

[Capt_hensley]

The article was dated Dec 14, but I couldn't find it in a quick search here so I posted it, but yes, vaguely familiar isn't it...

 

[Wood]

This thread here.

 

[Capt_hensley]

My bad, I double posted this subject, Please forgive me.

Admins, Please remove if you feel so inclined...