Going Hypersonic: Flying FALCON for Defense

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the development of hypersonic aircraft, specifically the FALCON program initiated by DARPA and the USAF. Participants explore the implications of such technology for military applications and potential future uses in space travel. The conversation touches on historical context, technological advancements, and personal opinions regarding military projects.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Historical

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants express disappointment over setbacks in the Hypersoar program, particularly regarding the fragged prototype test engine, and speculate on the future of hypersonic technology.
  • Others note that despite initial setbacks, advancements such as the successful SCRAMjet flight by Australia indicate progress in hypersonic technology.
  • One participant reflects on the longevity of military projects, comparing the FALCON program to the National Missile Defense program, which has faced ongoing challenges over decades.
  • A theory is proposed regarding the Patriot III missile system, suggesting it may involve advanced energy weapons, questioning the effectiveness of earlier systems during conflicts.
  • Another participant humorously suggests that NASA might be monitoring the discussion due to the timing of test flights resuming.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a mix of skepticism and cautious optimism regarding the military focus of hypersonic technology. There is no consensus on the effectiveness or future implications of these technologies, and multiple viewpoints are presented without resolution.

Contextual Notes

Some discussions reference historical military projects and their effectiveness, highlighting a lack of resolution on the current state and future of hypersonic technology. Assumptions about military applications and technological capabilities remain unverified.

Ivan Seeking
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"The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) and the United States Air Force (USAF) are seeking contractors to build an unmanned hypersonic aircraft capable of reaching any point on the world map in about two hours. Though initially a creature of war, such an aircraft could eventually serve as a springboard into space, developing technology that could lead to a single-stage-to-orbit spacecraft "

http://space.com/businesstechnology/technology/darpa_falcon_030723.html
 
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Yes, I was following the Hypersoar program pretty closely when the ptototype test engine got fragged. That was pretty dissapointing and I thought we wouldn't see hypersoar technology for a long time because of it.

I think it was less than a year later that the Australians flew the first successfull SCRAMjet. Can't say I'm thrilled about it being a millitary project, but I can't say I'm at all suprised, either. At least this should get the ball rolling again.
 
Originally posted by LURCH
Yes, I was following the Hypersoar program pretty closely when the ptototype test engine got fragged. That was pretty dissapointing and I thought we wouldn't see hypersoar technology for a long time because of it.

I think it was less than a year later that the Australians flew the first successfull SCRAMjet. Can't say I'm thrilled about it being a millitary project, but I can't say I'm at all suprised, either. At least this should get the ball rolling again.

I have been reading this same article for about 25 years now.

Another example of a really long winded project. The National Missile Defense program, which still doesn't work, is at least 40 years old.

Hey, I have a theory on the Gulf II war. I think the Patriot III is a LAZER or similar energy weapon. Do you rememeber in Gulf I how we saw patriot after patriot launch at the incoming missiles; most of which really failed to stop the incoming? Did anyone notice that even though this was a front line defense for Kuwait that saw action, and that claimed 100% effectiveness, we never saw one Patriot III launch?
 
Well ain't this a coinkydink! Test-flight are slated to recomense sometime in http://www.space.com/businesstechnology/technology/x43a_return_030728.html .

I think NASA monitors this site and knows we were talkin' about 'em!:wink:
 
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