NewScientist The Last Word

Why do orbital space craft have to slow down via atmosphere braking? Could not one slow down in near vacuum and then simply return to earth at a much more sedate pace, thus negating the need for heat shielding?
(no votes)

Categories: Transport.

Reply	petethebloke says: It would take a huge amount of energy to go slowly while gravity is hauling you downwards for all it is worth. Your plan starts off well, but you'd keep speeding up, and to prevent that you'd have to push yourself upwards. (no votes) Tags: Space, spaceshuttle.
	posted on 2010-07-27 17:37:10 \| Report abuse

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