this post was submitted on 13 Apr 2026
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[โ€“] LogicalDrivel@sopuli.xyz 4 points 1 month ago (1 children)

Early versions of the vehicle were designed for ground launch, but later versions were intended for use only in space.

I don't think a ground launch Orion Drive would work without some crazy material science and infrastructure. Like a "flame trench" that can withstand a nuclear blast and a craft that doesn't rip itself to shred just from the shockwave alone.

Technically you only need a launch tower designed in such a way that none of its shrapnel damages the rocket.