4 ms·
The added weight of every aero spike engine ever made obviated its performance benefits, even for SSTO. SpaceX has always focused on super high thrust to weight
by valuearb 6y ago
The added weight of every aero spike engine ever made obviated its performance benefits, even for SSTO. SpaceX has always focused on super high thrust to weight ratio engines (Merlin and Raptor) and that (along with lighter tanks) has more than offset the lower ISP of their propellants.
- pfdietz 6y agoIndeed. There are ways to get altitude compensation in more traditional bell nozzles.