Nova Model B Cutaway Credit - © Mark Wade Media Gallery

General Dynamics Nova design using existing engines. Recoverable engine package; separation at 3,398 m/s at 76,200 m altitude; splashdown using retrorockets under 7 30 m diameter parachutes 1300 km downrange. Massed estimated based on tank volumes, total thrust, and first stage burnout conditions.

Manufacturer: Convair. LEO Payload: 338,000 kg (745,000 lb). to: 185 km Orbit. Liftoff Thrust: 124,530.100 kN (27,995,480 lbf). Total Mass: 10,473,600 kg (23,090,300 lb). Core Diameter: 20.60 m (67.50 ft). Total Length: 87.00 m (285.00 ft).

• Stage Number: 1. 1 x Stage: Nova GD-B-1. Gross Mass: 9,070,000 kg (19,990,000 lb). Empty Mass: 635,000 kg (1,399,000 lb). Thrust (vac): 142,451.000 kN (32,024,258 lbf). Isp: 310 sec. Burn time: 177 sec. Isp(sl): 271 sec. Diameter: 20.60 m (67.50 ft). Span: 25.70 m (84.30 ft). Length: 45.20 m (148.20 ft). Propellants: Lox/Kerosene. No Engines: 16. Engine: F-1A. Status: Study 1963. Massed estimated based on tank volumes, total thrust, and first stage burnout conditions. Recoverable engine package; separation at 3,398 m/s at 76,200 m altitude; splashdown using retrorockets under 7 30 m diameter parachutes 1300 km downrange.

• Stage Number: 2. 1 x Stage: Nova GD-B-2. Gross Mass: 998,000 kg (2,200,000 lb). Empty Mass: 75,000 kg (165,000 lb). Thrust (vac): 10,669.000 kN (2,398,486 lbf). Isp: 428 sec. Burn time: 357 sec. Diameter: 20.60 m (67.50 ft). Span: 20.60 m (67.50 ft). Length: 27.10 m (88.90 ft). Propellants: Lox/LH2. No Engines: 5. Engine: J-2. Status: Study 1963. Massed estimated based on tank volumes, total thrust, and first stage burnout conditions.

• Scala, Keith J, and Swanson, Glen E, Quest, "They Might Be Giants Part 1", Fall, 1992. Unique account of the Nova study contracts of the 1960's.