Posted by dlevine2100 on
URL: https://www.shado-forum.com/Interceptors-tp1500519p1500549.html

--- In [hidden email], Robert Thomas
<screwedmorethenonce@y...> wrote:
>
>
> David Levine <dlevine2100@y...> wrote:
> --- In [hidden email], wrote:
> > Hello all,
> > ...It has also been noted that the Interceptors are small so I
> would assume that they have limited fuel range. In addition, since
> they are kept on "alert" status, I assume they are kept ready to
> launch, i.e. engines warmed and/or running, missile loaded,
systems up (like communications/ computer) and is therefore burning
fuel. So a pilot sent out on an intercept mission may have to fly
out, launch his missile, then fly an evasive return route and try to
navigate back to base with less then a full tank of fuel, which is
limited to start with. The rescue decal might mark where a fuel-
tanker vehicle "tops off" the fuel load.

Robert,

Minor point, but please try to keep the excerpts from previous posts
straight, contrary to what it looks in your previous post (relevant
part copied above), I did not write the first paragraph above, I was
referencing what someone else wrote, and as I recall, I gave proper
reference.

Anyhow, it would be hard to "fix" the problems (give a reasonable
believable explanation) with the interceptors' propulsion system.
First of all, you probably have noticed that when they take off, you
can hear the engines roaring. In reality, in space, sound does not
travel through vacuum. I remember reading that Gerry Anderson et al
knew this well, but nevertheless added the sound to make the take
off more spectacular.

Most likely, obviously, they didn't include "sparks" or
a "combustion flame" coming off the engines just to make the models
less complicated and to save money. The only exception to this that
I can recall is the lunar module during landing...

David Levine