New rocket could lift astronauts (BBC)

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By Jonathan Amos
Science correspondent, BBC News

Two of the world's leading rocket companies are joining forces to develop a new vehicle to launch astronauts into orbit.

The bottom part of the proposed Liberty rocket would be based on the solid-fuelled boosters that help get the shuttle off the ground.

The top half would use the liquid-fuelled core-stage technology and engine that powers the Ariane 5.

The concept has been put forward by ATK from the US and Astrium from Europe.

Their idea is being submitted to the US space agency (Nasa), which is seeking commercial solutions to take astronauts to and from the space station following the retirement of the shuttles later this year.
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more: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-12394991