A bit more on Stratolaunch

Stratolaunch had its very successful flight yesterday. It was a very exciting flight to behold. However, it may not be totally without issues.

It was noted by observers that the aircraft favors one side when turning. That can even be noted in the landing where the right side touched down first. This may be merely the pilot getting to know and fly such a strange new and dual fuselage aircraft. It might be a software bug. On the other hand, it might actually be an aerodynamic design flaw. Only time will tell.

Scuttlebutt is that Northrop Grumman is buying her: their aircraft that launches the Pegasus rocket is getting old and they need a replacement. This will work. It will also allow NG to build larger Pegasus rockets as well. It will be interesting to see what uses NG puts her to. If I had my druthers, I'd look into her being the basis for a new aerial tanker or cargo aircraft: she has more cargo capacity than the C-5M the USAF uses more.

At any rate, the Roc is a gorgeous aircraft and I look forward to more flights.

Congratulations to Stratolaunch.