Chapter 1: Defining the Boundary of Space

When pondering whether an airplane can operate in space, it's essential to clarify what we define as "space." The formal edge of space is typically considered to be 100 kilometers above sea level, yet reaching a point where one could orbit the International Space Station (ISS) is an entirely different challenge.

No existing aircraft that relies on wing lift can attain even 100 kilometers in altitude. As altitude increases, atmospheric density diminishes rapidly, rendering it impossible for conventional planes to generate the necessary lift.

However, utilizing rocket engines could enable a specially designed aircraft to reach orbit, followed by a return to Earth using its wings. The North American X-15 serves as a prime example of this hybrid capability. This aircraft was initially lifted to 8.5 kilometers by a B-52 bomber, after which it employed its jet engines for ascent. It successfully completed several flights above 50 miles (approximately 80 kilometers), a threshold recognized by the U.S. Air Force as the start of space, and it even surpassed 100 kilometers on two occasions.

The first video discusses the challenges of flying a plane into space and the technological requirements needed for such endeavors.

In terms of reaching low-Earth orbit, the X-15 would not suffice. Instead, various orbital planes and spaceplanes have been developed, including the American Space Shuttle and the Russian Buran, along with privately constructed vehicles like SpaceShipOne and SpaceShipTwo.

Chapter 2: The Limitations of Conventional Airplanes

If we restrict our focus to traditional airplanes, particularly those utilizing jet engines and wing lift, it becomes clear that none can approach the edge of space. The altitude record is held by the Lockheed S-71 Blackbird, which achieved just under 26 kilometers. While impressive, this altitude remains well within Earth's atmosphere.

In the absence of an atmosphere, conventional airplanes cannot operate. The engines of these aircraft rely on atmospheric air to function, as they draw in air for propulsion. Additionally, wings require air to generate lift.

Should a modern aircraft somehow reach orbit, three scenarios could unfold. If the spacecraft that transported the plane also provided the necessary orbital velocity, the aircraft would briefly act as an artificial satellite. Eventually, however, it would re-enter the atmosphere and likely burn up.

If the aircraft lacked sufficient speed, it would fall back to Earth, burning upon re-entry. The pilots would be powerless to guide the plane in a controlled descent, as the atmosphere would not be dense enough to allow for gliding, unlike how shuttles maneuver.

Spaceplanes are equipped with specialized heat shields designed to withstand extreme temperatures and protect them from burning up during re-entry. Conventional aircraft, lacking such technology, would face inevitable destruction.

The second video elaborates on the reasons why airplanes cannot reach space and the engineering behind spaceplanes.

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