Quote:
Originally Posted by RGClark
Astronauts don't like them since once started they can't be shot down and they can't be throttled either.
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Is it a real problem that they can't be throttled? (we've had this discussion before)? Do you have any quotes of astronauts not liking them or do you just say so? How many astronauts don't like them? With a real life reliability of over 199 in 200 (and a 100% reliability since the redesign after Challenger), I'd think astronauts would kiss and hug them.
Quote:
Originally Posted by RGClark
They also have have less performance compared to liquid fueled rockets as measured by Isp, as witnessed by the piling on of segments on the Ares solid rocket boosters.
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And a large, no huge thrust. Especially for the cost. They're simple and reliable, have very few failure modes. Something that may be quite important for manned launchers indeed. Is a lower Isp all that bad for a first stage if it gives you a huge thrust in a simple, safe and relatively cheap way?