[PhiKapMom]

I can see your frustration at some comments on here (mine is also from the media) is matching mine.

Too many people have watched too many space movies and have unrealistic expectations of what the Shuttle can and cannot do including sending a rescue shuttle up. And too many "so-called" experts have hit the airwaves with all kinds of theories.

On another thread someone pointed out that ABC radio wondered why they didn't parachute out -- 200,000+ parachuting out! Give me a break!

[Desdemona]

On another thread someone pointed out that ABC radio wondered why they didn't parachute out -- 200,000+ parachuting out!

Without a pressure suit and whole heck of a lot of oxygen? At mach 18? HALO jumps aren't even ANYWHERE CLOSE that high or fast and they require oxygen and extra protection.

This is all driving me nuts. We're not talking about firing up the old 747 and taking it out for a spin.

[Mo1]

On another thread someone pointed out that ABC radio wondered why they didn't parachute out -- 200,000+ parachuting out! Give me a break!

parachute out ???.. ABC said that??

OMG .. that is the dumbest thing I have ever heard

[Dave S]

ABC radio wondered why they didn't parachute out -- 200,000+ parachuting out! Give me a break!

Yes and at mach 18. ROTWFL. At two or three times the speed of sound, pilots that eject get broken bones and beat up pretty badly by the ejection. Just think what would happen to them if they ejected at 18 times the speed of sound. They would be torn apart.