I think that’s the word that Stephen Green is looking for.
Stratolaunch
…wants to use Birdzilla to launch a reusable spaceplane.
Not sure what this means, though:
The Black Ice space plane — should it be built — would be about as big as the former space shuttle developed by NASA and capable of staying up for at least three days.
What does “as big” mean? Similar dimensions to a Shuttle orbiter? If it has to carry propellant, it won’t have much payload. I wonder what kind of GLOW that aircraft can handle?
[Update a few minutes later]
Here’s another story on the subject from Eric Berger. Haven’t looked at comments yet, but there may be some discussion of performance there.
America’s Steel Superiority
This reminds me of my piece on how the auto industry did the same thing to itself. Once it had done so, it was easy for foreigners to compete, with or without subsidies.
NASA Needs A Reset
I agree, it’s long overdue. Fundamentally, the space establishment cannot let go of the Apollo paradigm, but it will have to, or be completely left behind.
How To Photograph A Rocket Launch
Beautiful imagery from Trevor, who I met at the launch.
Health Advocates
Are they finally wising up to risk?
If so, it probably won’t last long, based on history.
Early Spaceports
Laura Montgomery has a new short story out.
Earth Surface Temperatures
Anthony Watts has been vindicated after all these years.
New California
Thoughts from Glenn Reynolds on California’s seceding from the coastal fascists. I don’t understand why the silly-looking gerrymander to keep Sacramento with the coastal “elites.” Set up a new state capital in San Jose or LA, and let the real California keep the delta.
[Update a few minutes later]
This seems sort of related: How the big tech companies went from “Don’t be evil” to doing evil.
[Update a while later]
Steven Kruiser: “Dear California, call me when the commies leave.” I love this state, have for half a century, but I hate its voters.
#NeverTrump
Sarah Rumpf had a little tweetstorm the other day, and I largely agree with her. I continue to be happy she lost, and happy with many of the policy outcomes, but that doesn’t mean that I have to abandon my principles just because the clown in the White House apparently has none.
[Update a few minutes later]
Hillary Clinton, the woman in the high castle.