pogconcl.htm
The following conclusions are made with the caveat that this was a comparative study only and that there was not a consensus among the reviewing engineers and scientists as to the costs and benefits of the Pogo concept.
1. The Pogo concept is considered viable with mostly off-the-shelf hardware and no new technology. It can provide launch assist to a variety of vehicles, including TAVs, and it can be launched from anywhere in the world.
2. The Pogo can significantly increase the payload of some current and proposed launch vehicles with minimal additional cost.
3. The Pogo can significantly reduce the cost of spacelift.
4. The Pogo propulsion concept, using currently available jet engines for vertical lift, might enable a wide range of special purpose vehicles capable of missions currently considered too dangerous, expensive, or challenging.
1. It is recommended that a six-month engineering study be funded to assess the technical feasibility, operational utility, and affordability of the Pogo concept.
2. Should the six-month study validate the findings of this report, it is recommended that a low-cost demonstration program be funded to demonstrate the critical aspects of the Pogo concept and to gain operational experience.
3. Depending on the success of the demonstration program it is recommended that a fleet of two operational Pogos be developed and placed into service.
4. The Pogo concept (VTOL with off-the-shelf jet engines) should be considered for a variety of applications. These include spacelift, heavy cargo lift, and very rapid parcel service.
This Page Last Updated 29 May 97