Douglas SASSTO 1/72 System Concept Model Kit

Douglas SASSTO  1/72  Sysytem Concept Model Kit:

During the mid-1960s, Douglas Aircraft's space division under the direction of Philip Bono produced numerous designs for advanced reusable launch vehicles. One of these, based on Douglas' S-IVB second stage for the Saturn V rocket, was dubbed the SASSTO (Saturn Application Single-Stage-to-Orbit.) Using an experimental aerospike engine in place of conventional rockets, it was designed to boost a two-man Gemini capsule into low orbit and then return it to earth, all as a single vehicle. The SASSTO's benefits were to be simplicity, reusability, and low cost.

Unfortunately, NASA went in another direction, putting its focus on larger, winged orbiters with greater carrying capacities, a concept that would ultimately produce the U.S. Space Shuttle.

Scale: 1:72
Number of Pieces: 39
Height: 11.25 inches
Pattern: John Fleming
Casting: John Fleming