(Getting that image to appear is magic. I did the thing and it didn't show up.)

I think I missed your point unless it's that based upon past history with heavy launchers the Ares V is being oversold. That I wouldn't doubt. It would be a shock if it weren't. I know the Shuttle and War in Iraq have in common the same huge expectations followed by disappointment and minimal budget followed by unlimited expenses.

Whatever it costs, however it does it, if the Ares V can get that mass and volume into space it is one helluva rocket. Frankly, it's beyond my comprehension.

I have no idea if it's worth the effort, if there are other ways to do the same thing less expensively, more reliably or whatever, that is one damned big rocket.

Arf