Is it possible to build something which could reach space (or almost) for under $15,000? What would that be?
Reach "space" yes, reach orbit no.
>>7782887
Yeah, but it's unlikely you'll survive.
>>7782913
Not planning to use it for personal travel.
>>7782887
are you a flat earther?
look at plane trails some time
>>7783001
Fucking hell, you are right.
If the earth was curved, distant con-trails would be curved.
>>7782887
balloon ascents do literally nothing.
Sure. Reaching space is easy. It's staying there that's hard.
>>7782887
I always wanted to die in space so if you can help me with something scientifically accurate like a large canon or anything to reach orbit it would be helpful
>>7783630
I'd be the first to pour scorn on any such scheme, but they are correct that once the balloon gets you high enough, you're no longer restricted to missile-like shapes for high-velocity streamlining.
>>7782887
the question is not just academic. There is an "N-Prize" for just that!
Personally, I don't think it is possible. There are a lot of capital costs even for physically most minimal possible thing that could get a tiny thing to orbital velocity, not to mention the control system involved. And even the cheapest vehicle would have hundreds of times the expense of the development and test program behind it.
>>7782887
>buy helicopter ticket
>get to highest height
>release whatever sized helium balloon with object attached
I don't see what your problem is, you fucking retard.
>>7784833
>Release balloon directly under blades.
Gee senpai I don't know.
>>7784839
How about looping it on a long stick and then releasing it, smart guy?
stats please on loss
>>7784842
How bout realizing a helicopter wouldnt get hogh enough to make a difference mr diseased fetus