Early versions of the vehicle were designed for ground launch, but later versions were intended for use only in space.
I don’t think a ground launch Orion Drive would work without some crazy material science and infrastructure. Like a “flame trench” that can withstand a nuclear blast and a craft that doesn’t rip itself to shred just from the shockwave alone.
To everyone saying launching to orbit is impossible, I have two words: Orion Drive
I don’t think a ground launch Orion Drive would work without some crazy material science and infrastructure. Like a “flame trench” that can withstand a nuclear blast and a craft that doesn’t rip itself to shred just from the shockwave alone.
Technically you only need a launch tower designed in such a way that none of its shrapnel damages the rocket.
And we have the materials science for the plate.
so it’s possible, once