On 25 Jan 2004 23:26:36 -0800, (Rusty B)
wrote:

Boeing is using Command Module shaped hardware
and an Apollo type escape rocket in some of its recent concept drawings:

Boeing is just trying to cover all options since NASA has not yet
clearly defined their CEV needs, even if we all have a good idea what
they will require. Think "moon".

Got the Delta IV-H in there I see, as well as a Mars craft, a Luna
space station, cargo modules, TLI hardware and a Luna Lander.

Not quite got what I envisioned myself, but then there is a long way
to go yet. Hopefully, Boeing will slap a bit of colourful paint (not
that paint is the best idea) on their capsule, when/if they build it
for real.

I do find it interesting that Boeing, mostly wisely, does not also
envision something colossal like the CEV displayed in NASA's own CEV
animation.

Now if only they could land that capsule of theirs on the Moon, when
then you could well have your real CEV.

Not too sure about their inflatable ideas, when it would pose a
serious temperature problem being so thin. Not of course to forget the
remote possibility of a puncture, even by the crew.

According to NASA Watch:

"Boeing has placed a dozen or so graphics online depicting a varety
of spacecraft one would expect to see proposed as part of the
President's new space policy."

http://www.nasawatch.com/

http://boeingmedia.com/images/search...roduct_id=1525

Boeing is sure wanting their slice of the CEV budget. :-]

Interestingly enough they have not yet considered making a larger
rocket better suitable for Moon launches, like with using those RS-84
engines that they are currently developing.

On a personal note, then if NASA ever does one of those Saturn V type
launches ever again with "U.S.A" flying past the camera, then I hope
following this they will also put "F*** You!" followed by a middle
finger sign pointing upwards. ;-]

Now there would be pride in their country and achievements, where the
USA rules and everyone else are just sad losers.

Ok, so it will never happen, but I would die laughing if it ever did.

Some earlier Boeing OSP CM capsule shaped concepts.

http://boeingmedia.com/images/search.cfm?product_id=986

Yes, their former OSP designs.

I see that Boeing's designs have changed a great deal in the past
year, when beforehand they also presented wing designs, while now they
show only capsules.

In other words they offer all that they think NASA may want, where
NASA helps a great deal in narrowing down their artist conception
designs for them.

I now wonder when NASA will start saying what hardware they want,
which I can imagine is not an easy choice.

Cardman
http://www.cardman.com
http://www.cardman.co.uk