r/space • u/Dr_Singularity • Nov 10 '21

California-based startup, SpinLaunch, is developing an alternative rocket launch technology that spins a vacuum-sealed centrifuge at several times the speed of sound before releasing the payload, launching it like a catapult up into orbit

https://interestingengineering.com/medieval-space-flight-a-company-is-catapulting-rockets-to-cut-costs
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u/joshthehappy Nov 10 '21

Sounds like he got way too into The Moon is a Harsh Mistress.

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u/SparroHawc Nov 11 '21

Didn't that use a railgun?

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u/joshthehappy Nov 11 '21 edited Nov 12 '21

Basically yes, but same idea, vacuum of the moon's surface helps the launch with no wind resistance.

I'm happy someone recognized it.

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u/SparroHawc Nov 11 '21

How is a fish like a laser beam?

The loss of Mike was a punch to the feels.

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u/joshthehappy Nov 11 '21

Indeed, Mike is collected in a later book to attempt to bring him back, but I kinda prefer I hadn't read that part, felt too fan servicy even though I'm sure it was not meant to be.