Launches of the Future

Predictably, research is underway to try to determine the future of space launch technology. Some of the ideas currently in the works are radically new, others are simply new takes on existing technology. Either way, the idea is to make launching payloads into orbit easier, cheaper, and more efficient. This is not to say that any of these will ever actually fly; but they're certainly possible.

The Jules Verne Gun
Like the novel From the Earth to the Moon suggested, the Jules Verne Launcher Co. is attempting to make a launch system that uses a giant cannon. This cannon, of course, is more sophisticated than the one in the book. The premise is similar: set off an explosion that provides intial thrust for a space capsule. Then, as the capsule shoots up the barrel of the cannon, electromagnets keep it aligned while smaller explosions act as boosters. After the capsule has cleared the barrel, a rocket motor pushes the capsule into orbit. Even with some changes, the Jules Verne Gun would have done its namesake proud.

Sea Launch
The Sea Launch system is designed to provide mobile launch support, be able to move to a more favorable launch position from anywhere in the world, and reduce risk to populated areas through explosions or leakages. Sea Launch consists of a transport ship to carry the rocket and payload to the launch site, and a mobile oil-rig style launchpad. Sea Launch has already been tested, and is starting to see more and more actual use. Sea Launch is exclusively commercial, the first of this kind, but similar systems could doubtless be used by the military.

Needless to say, many other ideas (possible or otherwise) are floating around out there. These are just a couple of them.