LOW EARTH ORBIT FREIGHTER RECOVERY The freighter then returns to the launch site for landing in the landing basin. The final deceleration to a soft powered vertical landing is provided by the restarting of part of the RP^ engines. All handling of the booster is accomplished on the Earth by waterborne towing. Lifting and handling are not required. Its unique shape, similar to Apollo, provides several advantages. 1) Large payload bay for low density payloads. 2) Large base area to provide room for the two sets of ascent engines. 3) Aerodynamic stability during reentry. 4) Stable flotation in the upright position after landing. 5) Directional control for landing. Required L/D is about .25.
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