Request Boeings NOVA

[Graham2001]

I know that a few other NOVA super launcher designs have been covered, but this 1968 Boeing Heavy/Medium Lift Launch Vehicle pair might be worth doing.

The HLLV was planned to put about 1,800 tons (4,000,000 lb) into orbit.

The MLLV version would have been able to put 850 tons (1,850,000) into orbit.

A new offshore launch complex was going to be constructed to simplify vehicle assembly and keep noise levels down.

1. Plan view of the HLLV



2. The HLLV Launch Complex



3. Planned locations near Cape Canaveral for the launch complex



See:

1. Study of Advanced Multipurpose Large Launch Vehicles - Technical Report

2. Cost Studies of Multipurpose Large Launch Vehicles: Vol. II, Half-Size (MLLV) Conceptual Design

 

[sputnik]

Looks like a good candidate for Velcro Rockets treatment, if you'd like to mesh it.

 

[Arrowstar]

I know at some point we're supposed to be getting the Vulkan launcher from Kulch, though I haven't heard much on that. But it looks like it might have capabilities in the range of what you've specified up there.

 

[movieman]

Nova would be cool, but you'd need some big payloads to stick on it too .

 

[Andy44]

Nova would be cool, but you'd need some big payloads to stick on it too

I'm sure we could think of a few things...

 

[Arrowstar]

4 million pounds for the heavy version? Sounds like you could put up the entire ISS with that.