Abstract
In simple terms, value engineering (VE) identifies the function of a system with a verb/noun and assigns it a value. This paper provides a background phase that briefly identifies the Soviet's launching capability. A lesson has been learned from the former U.S.S.R.'s success with massive booster rockets. Their version of the shuttle has been tested and will become an integral part of their fleet. The use of VE concepts for spaceport launching will allow existing facilities to be converted for handling a new generation of expendable launch vehicles (ELV). The paper postulates that not all ELVs have to be assembled in buildings. It also suggests that the hoisting system used for vehicle assembly does not have to be 300–500 ft off the ground. The VE proposal identifies mobility as the key factor for elimination of space‐aged dinosaurs. Modular construction can permit support services and equipment to be mounted on large crawler transporters and be able to move with ground support. A mobile spaceport launching system could traverse up and down Cape Canaveral or Vandenberg AFB at about one‐half the present launch support cost.
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