We need to take the shuttle technology we have and modify it so that we can launch bigger payloads (without humans in the equation) when needed, and manned payloads when they are needed.

I love the idea of a spaceplane, but lets face it...Were just not to the position technologically where a single stage to orbit system is feasible (especially if we are talking a craft with the same payload capabilities as the shuttle. In even if it were, it would be foolish to try to build such a spaceplane as both a human and cargo spacecraft...

Cargo should go in one launch, humans in another. They can meet-up on orbit if and when needed.

I thought that was the whole purpose of the Space Station...It was to be a weigh station and assembly point for more ambitious missions.

Scott