We should now rethink our space transportation system, what we need are three different vehicles if we are truly serious about conquering space.
“THE TANKER” We need a heavy lift un-manned vehicle for bringing materials and supplies into orbit.
We have done this before; it was called the Saturn V.
“THE BUS” We need a truly maneuverable personnel carrier. It must be lightweight, capable of launch and powered during landing.
This vehicle would have survivability as its primary mission.
“THE TRAILER” For the times that we need to bring equipment and materials back, this vehicle would be similar to the current shuttle, but would have an escape capsule for a cockpit and only two or three member crew.
It would only be used for returning equipment not for bringing anything into orbit.
“SPACE STATIONS” As to the foolishness of the current International Space Station, it is a complete waste of money.
It has been re-designed for cost reductions to the point of total failure.
We should do what we can to place at least one station (if not three for communications) in geo-synchronous orbit
and to then place a station where it will do us the most good with less need for fuel to maintain an orbit.
LaGrange Points At this station is where we build the launch facilities for planetary exploration.
>>We have done this before; it was called the Saturn V. <<
Are we even capable of building a Saturn V today?