From: Vulch@vulch.org   
      
   In message    
             henry@spsystems.net (Henry Spencer) wrote:   
      
    > In article <87eksz9svf.fsf@ibp.de>, 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,   
      
    > 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.   
      
   Would there be any advantage in using a 23.5 degree orbit, arranged to   
   be on the ecliptic, if your assembly is for interplanetary trips? I   
   can't work out if being able to not have your assembled craft do a plane   
   change is actually an advantage, let alone worth the payload and timing   
   hit for delivering stuff to the assembly station.   
      
             Anthony   
      
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