In article , Markus Redeker wrote:
That said, ISS isn't in a good orbit to use as a stepping stone,

Which orbit would you prefer?

The best orbit for an orbital assembly base is equatorial, although that
requires an equatorial launch site (not just near the equator, mind you,
but very nearly on it -- even Kourou, at 5.2degN, is not really suitable).
The big win is launch windows once per orbit instead of once or twice a
day, and there are some lesser issues like lower radiation dose too.

If it's a US project and you're not prepared to build a new launch base
(or operate from floating platforms like Sea Launch), then a 28.5deg orbit
like that originally planned for the space station is best. It doesn't
have the unique advantages of an equatorial orbit, but it does maximize
payload capacity for launches from the Cape.
--
MOST launched 30 June; science observations running | Henry Spencer
since Oct; first surprises seen; papers pending. |