You people are insane. Delta clipper was pioneering but so too was the Falcon 9. Where is the delta clipper’s actuating titanium grid fins, designed to withstand the searing heat of re-entry and provide control authority at supersonic speeds as it descends back into the atmosphere after ejecting the second stage which is continuing on into orbit? Oh, it didn’t do all those things? Then I guess the Falcon 9 IS a new design and IS a major accomplishment. Just because other vehicles paved the way in various aspects does not mean the new vehicle is not a major accomplishment in its own right. The hatchet piece on SpaceX is unwarranted and an assault on US private sector innovation and efficiency. It goes against everything this forum is supposed to stand for.
Use lots of lotion and shave palms regularly, pal.
I’ll send you a bill, too.