Launch Sites
Interorbital Systems' prototypes are all designed to be amphibious (capable of launch from land or sea). Although IOS currently tests its spacecraft at the Mojave Airport & Spaceport and conducts testbed launches from the Mojave Desert, it plans to develop and implement a method for launching directly from the water without a launch platform. The vehicle is towed into position by a 33 m (100 ft) crew boat, then a ballast is suspended from the submerged tail-section to provide proper orientation and stability during launch. According to IOS, sea launches are inherently less dangerous than land launches because they reduce the chance of damage to people or property in the event of a failed launch. As a result it is easier and less expensive to obtain a license for sea operations, and the added bonus of extra orbital velocity resulting from a launch directly on the equator. At the same time Interorbital Systems is seeking permission from the U.S. Department of State to build their own land based spaceport on the island of 'Eua, Kingdom of Tonga. This spaceport will be run under US laws.
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