University of Tokyo spaceplane to launch from space station

Steve Foley wrote:
"Larry Dighera" wrote in message
...


http://www.pinktentacle.com/2008/01/...-space-station

"A large spacecraft such as the Space Shuttle can reach speeds of up to Mach
20 (over 15,200 mph) when it re-enters the Earth's atmosphere .............
The much lighter origami aircraft, which the researchers claim will come
down more slowly, is not expected to burn up on re-entry. "

Wouldn't a smaller 'aircraft' be traveling just as fast if it's coming out
of orbit?

None of weight, density, or size will make the slightest difference
in the speed until it hits enough air to have significant drag.

A bowling ball and a feather fall at the same rate in a vacuum.

--
Jim Pennino

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