View Single Post
  #8  
Old October 27th 18, 10:51 PM posted to sci.space.policy
Alain Fournier[_3_]
external usenet poster
 
Posts: 548
Default US Air Force explores space-based cargo operations, confirmstalks with SpaceX

Le oct./27/2018 Ã* 14:15, Fred J. McCall a écritÂ*:
"Greg \(Strider\) Moore" wrote on Sat,
27 Oct 2018 12:59:24 -0400:

"Jeff Findley" wrote in message
...

In article ,
says...

"As for what space cargo operations could look like, the previous head of
Air
Mobility Command, Gen. Carlton Everhart, espoused the possibility of
moving cargo
using rockets during a Defense Writers Group breakfast in August."


"Apart from cargo operations, such a focuses space presence could help
with pre-
positioning equipment and supplies in orbit, ready to be dropped to
Earth."

See:

https://www.defensenews.com/digital-...s-with-spacex/

From above:

One potential would be SpaceX?s next-generation reusable
BFR rocket, currently under development. During the
roundtable, Miller confirmed that the Air Force had
spoken to SpaceX about the idea.

Interesting. Sounds like they're considering BFR as a military P2P
cargo transport. It would certainly be faster than any other form of
transport over great distances.


True, but the real question will be what you need for a useful landing
platform and the ability to refuel.


Pretty much anyplace with a hard surface will do for landing.


A C-130 may not be fast, but can land at most airfields and its fuel is
available worldwide.


BFS burns LNG, which is at least as common as aviation grade kerosene.


BFS will burn liquid methane. I'm not sure what would happen if you
replaced the methane with LNG. Possibly it would fly, possibly it would
go kaboum. Even if LNG is mostly liquid methane, there typically is near
10% of ethane, propane, butane and small amounts of other stuff. In some
cases the difference can have consequences.


Alain Fournier