Design of Virgin Galactic SpaceShip Two

The recently launched SpaceShipTwo uses all the same basic technology as it predecessor SpaceShipOne (carbon composite construction and design), but it is now around twice as large to accommodate the six passengers and two pilots. It is 60ft long with a 90" diameter cabin and no floor dissecting the cabin to allow the maximum room for the astronauts to float in zero gravity. What that means is that each passenger gets the same fantastic view through two large windows - one side window and one overhead.

The spaceship is basically an air launched glider with a rocket motor and a couple of extra systems for spaceflight. Like a conventional flying machine, it requires aerodynamic forces to provide its stability and control, which it only has whilst in the atmosphere. In space it follows a purely ballistic trajectory, but here it can use small thrusters known as the reaction control system (RCS) which allow the pilots to maneuver the vehicle in space and provide a changing view for the passenger astronauts.

One of the most radical features of the SpaceShipTwo, as in SpaceShipOne, is the unique way it returns into the dense atmosphere from the vacuum of space. The unique feathering system means that is uses aerodynamic design and laws of physics for a heat-free re-entry. No need for sophisticated computer driven flight control systems.