>> I heard some interesting theories some time ago about a large wedge 
>> shaped
>> balloon that was meant to be, quite literally, flown to very high 
>> altitude
>> then used to launch an orbiting station. It was actually more of a 
>> dirigible
>> (which have always fascinated me) for very high altitude flight. 
>> Don't
>> remember the exact link, but they were building a small version in 
>> a huge
>> hanger.


It's a "wave riding " beast that is meant to have enough lift to drag 
to allow it to slowly ride to unbelievably high altitudes (200,000 - 
400,000 feet ++?) and then act as a launch platform.

I frankly can't believe it and they don't give enough detail to allow 
one to judge well easily but they seem convinced.

The mother ship stays at altitude permanently and is used as a way 
station.


Gargoyles ...

        balloon high altitude orbital launch platform

Here we are

Ascender
JP Aerospace
ATO - Airship To Orbit

        http://www.jpaerospace.com/

        http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/5025388/

What you think you see may not be what you think you're getting.
But it may.
Perhaps.




        Russell


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