Is Burt Rutan the Cray of aeronautics?

[Integral]

Having just watched a video of the flight into the upper atmosphere of his new plane launched rocket, one has to wonder if he will be able to pass his design instincts and flair to others? Or are his abilities unique so die with him(whenever that may be)? Is this like the Cray supercomputer which was the result of the genius of Cray?

[Ivan Seeking]

I think this is more an example of the innovative power of free enterprise. We just need to get this out of the Government's hands and turn all of the genuines lose [within limits of course]. I see Rutan as more a crusader [probably a brilliant one] for the cutting edge; more of a technical daredevil than most. Its a lot easier to do things when you actually try.

[russ_watters]

My personal opinion of him is that he's an outstanding engineer, but he's got a little too much flair for the dramatic. Take the little portholes on SpaceshipOne - it looks kinda neat, but it has to piss off the pilot. Reminds me of an architect...

But his outstanding engineering skills and vision more than make-up for his little artistic quirk.

[wolram]

Is Burt Rutan the Cray of aeronautics?

Having just watched a video of the flight into the upper atmosphere of his new plane launched rocket, one has to wonder if he will be able to pass his design instincts and flair to others? Or are his abilities unique so die with him(whenever that may be)? Is this like the Cray supercomputer which was the result of the genius of Cray?
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I hate to say it but i think he is the present day Michel or Barns wallis,
unhampered by financial constraints as they were, he has the genius
to accomplish almost anything in aeronautics, can he teach others
to follow him, i doubt it these men are one offs.