Operationally the orbiters are a cross between the B1 bomber and the space shuttle. The boosters fall away before orbit is reached, with the central tank also containing the reaction thrusters needed for orbital manoeuvres. Orbiters can reach any part of the planet within 2 hours or they can stay in orbit for up to 5 days, patiently waiting for their oppotunity. Once back in atmosphere they are capable of hypersonic flight, although this would normally require several mid air refuels to get them back to base. And they look COOL too.
Sketches are a lot of fun for pinning down a shape, and for just playing around.
As I said elsewhere, you have a great aerodynamic sense and a sense for interesting story detail. What you're doing with the design process impresses me a great deal. Please, read the legal information first. All material posted at Elfwood is covered by our rules . Elfwood is a non-profit project created and maintained by Thomas F Abrahamsson and helpful assistants .