>>I really don't know which I would support, a space plane or capsule. While I would like to see the technology advanced with a new space plane. It is esthetically more pleasing to look at, and would push the state of the art. However a capsule is simpler and probably faster, and cheaper to design and build.<<

The capsule concept also seems to provide more abort options than lifting vehicles.

>>I wonder about the reusability of a capsule. What kind of heat shielding will it have? Can it be reused, or will they have to replace it each mission? Or will the capsule be like the old Apollo; use once and then put it in a museum? There has never been a reusable capsule. That doesn't mean it can't be designed. I hope they don't just study this thing to death and end up with nothing again. I hope they have the guts to make the decision and go ahead with it no mater what it turns out to be.<<

The reusability of the vehicle is up to the contractor. If they can demonstrate a cost-effective expendable, then the program may go that route. I'd bet on a reusable design myself, whether it be a lifting shape, capsule or something else.

Colonel K