From: g_d_pusch_remove_underscores@xnet.com   
   Copy: jpowell180@charter.net   
      
   "Joseph S. Powell, III"  writes:   
      
   > Wouldn't a hypersonic carrier be an ideal lauch platform for a manned   
   > shuttle-type vehicle - a type of TSTO or 3STO if the shuttle had some   
   > small drop tanks?   
      
   No, because even a _supersonic_ separation of two vehicles at any significant   
   atmospheric density is not merely difficult, but outright =DANGEROUS= !!!   
   Attempting a separation at hypersonic velocities, with every leading-edge   
   surface experiencing absurdly high dynamic pressures while glowing red to   
   white hot, is an exercise only for insane lunatics. Look it up near the top   
   of the list of "Stupid Things You Will Not Live Through If You Attempt."   
      
      
   -- Gordon D. Pusch   
      
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