space shuttle

[Jon Mann]

I've been an intermittent lurker on this list for several years and 
appreciate the courteous and informative responses.
Just to clarify, I did not mean to imply that we could launch with 
nuclear power sources, but to launch a couple smaller nuclear powered  
orbital modules to conduct orbital and moon missions.  I much prefer 
the concept of using nano and other alternative tech.  These vehicles 
should remain in orbit docked at the ISS.  Smaller crew module 
capsules, w/o any nuclear power sources, could be used for return.
I agree there have been relatively deaths on American launches and 
re-entries but we can lower this even more by salvage and utilizing 
more rugged materials for reusable modular parts.
Utilizing lower tech can often be cost effective and safer.  Depending 
on the government model bureaucratic structures can waste, or cut 
budget resources, and actually increase risk.
I just heard a report that astronauts are collecting tons of trash to 
return to earth rather than leaving it n orbit.  I  wonder if they plan 
to auction some of it off on ebay?~)

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