re: Shaping the future
Shuttle derived launch vehilces:
This artist's conception highlights three configurations for shuttle-derived launch vehicles: from left, the side-mounted heavy lifter; the in-line heavy lifter, with a cargo carrier mounted above the core-stage fuel tank; and the "Stick," which uses a single solid-rocket booster and a new upper stage. NASA's chief reportedly favors the in-line heavy-lift vehicle for large payloads and the Stick configuration for the Crew Exploration Vehicle.
The in-line heavy launch vehicle could carry 120 metric tons into orbit, while the side mount heavy launch under 100 tons. Plus it's on top so safer for the cargo. Again a good call by Griffin.