Should We Launch Rockets From Balloons?

Josh Welch

Illustration of a rocket-balloon or rockoonWhen you mention going to space, most people think about a rocket or space shuttle taking off from a launch-pad in a ball of fire and smoke. 

The main reason we think this way is because this is how we've been doing it for over half a century, even though it is inefficient, dangerous and bad for the environment. 

One idea that has been around since the 1940's is finally starting to get more attention because it mitigates these shortcomings with the current launch process. 

This idea consists of using balloons to carry rockets to the edge of the atmosphere before launching them into space. 

Doing this eliminates some of the problems that we have when launching from the ground, such as gravity and atmospheric pressure. 

Check out the video below to learn more and leave me a comment with your thoughts about this exciting idea!