Thanks for the link!<br /><br />I'd forgotten that the Ares booster is solid-fueled (Shuttle SRB sections bolted together).<br /><br />I've gotta say that I've got really mixed emotions about it... On the one hand, the SRB's got a great operational record (ignoring that "little" Challenger problem). <br /><br />But on the other hand, a solid-fuel rocket reduces your operational flexibility, doesn't it? Throttling and rocket shutdown is tough (or impossible) when its just a solid booster, right? Failures tend to be more catastrophic than liquid rockets, don't they? <br /><br />And most of all, it represents a continuation of existing heavy/expensive/old technology (from the 1970's) and big contracts given out to large Aerospace contractors whereby they can sit back and keep doing the same ol' same ol' without developing newer and better systems. I'm not against the big Aerospace companies - I'm sure they have fine people working for them and are as entitled to a profit as any small startup; but coming from a computer background I understand the value and benefits of constant innovation and evolution of systems. It can be painful and hard to do - but ultimately it results in better systems that are higher performance and lower-cost in the long run.<br /><br />Ah, well...<br /><br />--Noel<br />