Startram - maglev train to low earth orbit
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A spacecraft emerging from the Startram magnetically levitated launch system
Artist's conception of the spacecraft launch facility for a Startram-based spaceport
View of the magnetically levitated Startram launching tube rising toward the skies
The Startram orbital launch system would transport passengers and cargo into space in a magnetic levitation (maglev) train
The Startram launch tube is securely tethered to ground
One of several operational passenger maglev trains in Japan
Spacecraft being launched using the Startram launching system might look like this NASA X design (Image: NASA)
Article Summary
Getting into space is one of the harder tasks to be taken on by humanity. The present cost of inserting a kilogram (2.2 lb) of cargo by rocket into Low Earth Orbit (LEO) is about US$10,000. A manned launch to LEO costs about $100,000 per kilogram of passenger. But who says we have to reach orbit by means of rocket propulsion alone? Instead, imagine sitting back in a comfortable magnetic levitation (maglev) train and taking a train ride into orbit.
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