pogo.htm
Anyone wishing to copy this material may do so freely, though the ideas I've expressed remain mine and I would appreciate the credit. My e-mail address, oglenn@earthlink.net, may or may not continue to be functional.
I would like to thank all the folks out there who've contributed through your comments and questions as well as all the sources I've read. Had there been more of me this is one of the areas I would like to have pursued more.
Glenn
This report describes the results of a preliminary concept study into using aircraft jet engines for the propulsion of a spacelift first stage, dubbed a Pogo. It compares relevant altitude, velocity, and lift capabilities of current aircraft and jet engines. It estimates the capabilities of such a first stage and the associated launch costs. The results indicate that a large cost saving and improved operability could result from implementing this concept. Many references are cited and a bibliography is included. Appendices cover a list of other uses for this technology, possible Pogo variations, and a survey of relevant supersonic inlets.
The name "Jet Engine Launch Assist Concept" (JELAC) is much more descriptive and may become the name as time goes by.
This Page Last Major Update 29 May 97
This Page Last Minor Update December 19, 2002