Could a Subsurface Launched Water Vehicle Create a Tidal Wave?

Thread starter Freshtictac
Start date Jul 28, 2010
Tags

Space Vehicle Water

In summary, a water launched space vehicle is a spacecraft that is launched from a body of water, providing cost savings and increased flexibility for launch locations. It works by being lifted off a launch platform and propelled into space using rocket engines. The advantages of using this method include cost savings and flexibility, but there are also potential disadvantages such as impact on the environment and weather conditions. However, there have been successful missions utilizing water launches, such as the Sea Launch system and SpaceX's Falcon 9 rockets.

Jul 28, 2010

Freshtictac

Would a big one of these cause a tidal wave?
Subsurface launched...

Last edited: Jul 28, 2010

Astronomy news on Phys.org

Jul 28, 2010

mgb_phys

Science Advisor

Homework Helper

No
We have launched quite a few sub-orbital rockets from submarines, it hardly create a ripple.

The ocean is very very big, man made stuff is very very small

Jul 28, 2010

Freshtictac

Fantastic!

1. What is a water launched space vehicle?

A water launched space vehicle is a type of spacecraft that is launched from a body of water, such as an ocean or a lake, instead of a traditional launch pad on land. This method of launching can provide several benefits, including cost savings and increased flexibility for launch locations.

2. How does a water launched space vehicle work?

A water launched space vehicle works by first being transported to a launch platform in the water. Once in position, the spacecraft is lifted off the platform using a specialized crane system and then propelled into space using powerful rocket engines. The spacecraft must also be designed to withstand the impact of the water upon landing back on Earth.

3. What are the advantages of using a water launch for space vehicles?

There are several advantages to using a water launch for space vehicles. One major benefit is the potential cost savings, as water launches require less infrastructure and can use existing marine vessels. Additionally, water launches can provide more flexibility in terms of launch locations, as they can be conducted from any body of water deep enough to accommodate the spacecraft.

4. Are there any disadvantages to using a water launch for space vehicles?

While there are many advantages to using a water launch for space vehicles, there are also some potential disadvantages. One issue is the potential impact on the surrounding marine environment, which must be carefully monitored and managed. Additionally, the weather conditions at the launch site must be taken into consideration, as rough seas or storms could delay or cancel the launch.

5. Has a water launched space vehicle ever been used for a successful mission?

Yes, a water launched space vehicle has been used for several successful missions. One notable example is the Sea Launch system, which was developed in the 1990s and has been used for numerous commercial launches. Additionally, SpaceX has also successfully launched and landed its Falcon 9 rockets on a floating platform in the ocean.