The single stage to orbit (SSTO) craft spacecraft has been a dream in space travel for many decades.  The familiar comfort of a commercial airline-like take off with a progressively more powerful climb into orbit would strike some as more civilized when compared to the brutality of a traditional rocket. Still many challenges remain for fielding an engine that can convert from jet-powered atmospheric flight to rocket powered. Several companies are working on perfecting this technology.

 

Outfitted with a light payload and its added fuel cells, The Rapidliner could deliver satellites or supplies to low Earth orbit.  Configured for a full load of passengers, it would overcome the reduced interior fuel volume with the help of a self-recoverable drop tank.  The tank would provide the needed volume of fuel to help the Rapidliner achieve orbital velocity  before separating from The Rapidliner and descending back to the surface to land on its own.  Terrestrially, Rapidliners would also be useful on their own as supersonic passenger ferries to swiftly transport people from one location on world to another.

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(Futuristic space related concept art; visual and design consultation; cinematic art presentations and proposals)