Description
HOTOL & Skylon: The Story of Britain’s Spaceplanes
Join the British Interplanetary Society for the launch of HOTOL & Skylon: The Story of Britain’s Spaceplanes, the new book by journalist and writer Rob Coppinger.
The story of HOTOL and Skylon is one of a dream of aviation and spaceflight older than the Space Age itself. The case for a reusable launch vehicle—capable of reaching space with aircraft-like operations—has been clear since before Sputnik’s launch in 1957.
The proponents of reusability, including the designers behind HOTOL and Skylon, have had to contend with the short-term thinking that has often shaped investment in reusable spaceplane development. Reaction Engines was founded to carry forward that ambition: to achieve aircraft-like operations and realise the designs envisioned by its engineers. Their story is a powerful example of British ingenuity, imagination and perseverance in the face of adversity.
HOTOL & Skylon: The Story of Britain’s Spaceplanes is published in association with the British Interplanetary Society.
About the Event
At this special BIS event, Rob Coppinger will introduce his second book, explore the history and significance of Britain’s spaceplane programmes, and discuss the people, ideas and technological ambitions behind HOTOL and Skylon. There will also be an opportunity to purchase the book and have copies signed by the author.
Join us in person at Arthur C. Clarke House or online for the launch of Rob Coppinger’s HOTOL & Skylon: The Story of Britain’s Spaceplanes, celebrating the vision, ingenuity and perseverance behind Britain’s enduring ambition for reusable spaceflight
About the Speaker
Rob Coppinger is a journalist, editor of SpaceFlight and a writer.
