British Spaceport
Discussion
pherlopolus said:
I think the equator is the best place if you are looking for a geosynchronous orbit, for pleasure flights I am not sure it would matter that much?
The nearer the equator you launch the more help you get from the Earth's rotation - it's like getting a 1000mph head start compared to launching from a pole where you'd get zero help.It also requires less energy to then reach an orbit with zero inclination i.e. directly over the equator.
As for UK owned locations near the equator, Ascension is about the nearest I think
Hooli said:
Stornoway has excellent transport links for people using it 
Well it will be Leuchars then, hurrah! St Andrews to play a few rounds, your pick of the finest luxury hotels [and if your going to dip your toe in space then you can afford it anyway] alongside excellent links via the aerodrome for the exclusive transport that the flight provider WILL supply.
Now, about those Euromillions numbers...
MartG said:
pherlopolus said:
I think the equator is the best place if you are looking for a geosynchronous orbit, for pleasure flights I am not sure it would matter that much?
The nearer the equator you launch the more help you get from the Earth's rotation - it's like getting a 1000mph head start compared to launching from a pole where you'd get zero help.It also requires less energy to then reach an orbit with zero inclination i.e. directly over the equator.
As for UK owned locations near the equator, Ascension is about the nearest I think
Especially in the Skylon configuration where the mass of the vehicle is reduced to less than half for an equivalent payload.
Additionally, the reusability changes the costs significantly, so maximum performance capability is less significant.
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