Re: The joy of actual numbers, was Democracy

On Sat, 2 Nov 2024 11:40:50 +0100, D wrote:

One of my visions is to start an airline company based on modern
zeppelins. Instead of sitting in a small metal/carbon fibre tube for 8
to 14 hours, I'd like the experience of crossing the ocean to be more
like a cruise ship. It might take 1 to 3 days or so, but you could walk
around, and enjoy a Michelin star restaurant on board.
 
I just need to reach Branson or Musk and the thing should be done!
 
After that, the space elevator!

You're a little late...

https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/flying-whales-airships-hnk-spc-intl/
index.html

https://www.discovery.com/science/sustainable-aviation-will-reduce-jet-
fuel-emissions-to-zero

Hydrogen or electric powered conventional aircraft are a pipe dream. Both
will work with a LTA shup.

Then there's the helium versus hydrogen argument. The Hindenburg is what
is printed on everyone's imagination. One of the little discussed points
is Germany would have used helium but the US had control of almost all of
the helium supplies and wasn't releasing any to Germany.

It slips in and out of the news cycle as Chicken Little becomes aware of
helium.

https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/us-just-sold-helium-stockpile-
s-medical-world-worried-rcna134785

As usual the government had its thumb on the scales. The Helium
Privatization Act of 1996 signed by Clinton allowed helium to be sold
below market price putting some of the private suppliers out of business.
I believe a German company, Messer, won the auction. Get you party
balloons while they last.

Perhaps with hydrogen becoming the darling of the alternate energy crowd
it will lose its association with bombs and burning zepplins.