• aesthelete@lemmy.world
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    3 days ago

    Since a plane requires the most thrust at takeoff, you could use ground-based catapults to get the plane to takeoff speed (or faster even) and then you could carry smaller batteries and propelling machinery.

    Don’t you dare talk about catapulting using electric technologies in America though. Steam only! 🇺🇸🗽🦅🏈

    • SaveTheTuaHawk@lemmy.ca
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      20 hours ago

      There are many who have suggested replacing the fuel intensive takeoff with electric ramps, similar to what the do on aircraft carriers. The problem is most people could not handle 3-4 gs.

      But, there could be a detachable battery pack that disconnects after takeoff to fly back to charge as a drone.