The Stratolaunch is designed to carry a three-stage rocket (equipped with a satellite) between its two fuselages. Upon reaching the correct altitude, the rocket will detach, blast off into space, and later release the satellite. The combined weight of “Roc” plus the rocket is estimated to be 1.3 million pounds. Take a look at the animated video of the Stratolaunch in action, below.
Why build the largest plane in the world to put a satellite into space? A setup like the Stratolaunch can allow flexible satellite launches during a range of weather conditions and from anywhere in the world…with a runway big enough, that is. Those are two things a stationary launch pad can’t do. Initial flight testing is anticipated to begin in 2016, with missions expected to go underway in 2018.
http://news.boldride.com/2015/08/stratolaunch-largest-plane-in-the-world/86192/
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