Soyuz for 6 people

--- In ssi_list@... Lucio de Souza Coelho

> Em Ter 17 Fev 2004 19:46, victoriatangoman escreveu:
> (...)
> > If the US can outsource programmers, why not the CEV?
> (...)

> Wouldn't this trigger passionate protests from the type of people
> who think that the main function of the American space program is
> to provide jobs for Americans?

There's another reason for the space program?

Seriously, I wonder what's afoot? Do the Russians want to
shortcircuit the CEV proposal and gain the business for themselves?

Consider that it is easier to refine and extend an existing concept
than to start anew. There was recent commentary on this topic, I
think it was Andrew who made it, but my memory on this is like swiss
cheese, so I apologize if I've misattributed.

Moreover, space programs seem to be extensions of foreign policy, so
in the end, it may be that a successful Soyuz-6 may indeed be
adopted as a means of foreign policy engagement.

Thinking in classic Ricardian terms, the Russians would have a
comparative advantage in launch vehicles and the Americans could
concentrate on orbital vehicles and other technologies.

Maybe the Russians are trying to secure future launch business and
the proximity of Kouru to Canaveral makes the choice logistically
easier for the Americans.

Maybe, it's just one-upsmanship against the Americans.

OK, speculative mode - off.

TangoMan