starship-design: StarShip Design: Request and Questions

[Gertchen1 <Gertchen1@aol.com>]

In a message dated 97-12-10 10:33:57 EST, kuo@bit.csc.lsu.edu writes:

<< >> Like what?  The mission critical systems are:
 
 >> 1. The deceleration rocket systems.  These have to last 2 decades
 >>    and there's little margin for spares.  However, after that
 >>    they are no longer mission critical.
 
 >Current maximum operational lifetime: 50 hours continuous use, shelf life: 
 >none.
 
 Huh?  We don't have _any_ current deceleration rocket system suitable
 for a .2c mission.  The rocket systems we do have aren't even remotely
 like what would be used for such a mission.
  >>
If a starship is constructed in space, then there should be a major decrease
in the amount of fuel it requires. I am assuming that these ships would be
taking off the ground. Depending on the mass, and length, the ship may break
in two if the ship's rear boosters lifted it up. Some kind of front, middle
and rear booster will be required to have it lift off the ground. However,
this is a big waste. Why have these things, if they're that big, waste
precious fuel on the ground when they can just stay in space? Transports, or
planes can bring stuff back and forth into space, and dock with the vessel. I
do not see why so much fuel must be wasted to boost one rocket if the ship
could stay in space and not run out of oxygen. Perhaps, with a crew of fifty,
and the ship being about a mile in length, an entire deck rich with oxygen
giving plants and a routine filling of oxygen tanks would be sufficient. Since
I am writing a book, I am on the quest for starship designs, mostly warships.
Any designs would be appreciated ^_^

Thanks!
Gertie