Nova Model J Cutaway Credit - © Mark Wade Media Gallery

General Dynamics Nova design using recoverable Lox/RP-1 stage of ballistic shape with 3 million kgf engines; separation at 3,420 m/s at 93,900 m altitude; splashdown using retrorockets under 7 parachutes 1340 km downrange. Massed estimated based on tank volumes, total thrust, and first stage burnout conditions.

Manufacturer: Convair. LEO Payload: 454,000 kg (1,000,000 lb). to: 185 km Orbit. Liftoff Thrust: 116,526.400 kN (26,196,177 lbf). Total Mass: 10,431,800 kg (22,998,100 lb). Core Diameter: 42.40 m (139.10 ft). Total Length: 90.00 m (295.00 ft).

• Stage Number: 1. 1 x Stage: Nova GD-J-1. Gross Mass: 8,617,000 kg (18,997,000 lb). Empty Mass: 680,000 kg (1,490,000 lb). Thrust (vac): 124,044.000 kN (27,886,200 lbf). Isp: 330 sec. Burn time: 203 sec. Isp(sl): 310 sec. Diameter: 42.40 m (139.10 ft). Span: 20.10 m (65.90 ft). Length: 36.60 m (120.00 ft). Propellants: Lox/Kerosene. No Engines: 4. Engine: L-6.55. Status: Study 1963. Massed estimated based on tank volumes, total thrust, and first stage burnout conditions. Recoverable stage of ballistic shape; separation at 3,420 m/s at 93,900 m altitude; splashdown using retrorockets under 7 parachutes 1340 km downrange.

• Stage Number: 2. 1 x Stage: Nova GD-J-2. Gross Mass: 1,270,000 kg (2,790,000 lb). Empty Mass: 91,000 kg (200,000 lb). Thrust (vac): 13,346.000 kN (3,000,300 lbf). Isp: 428 sec. Burn time: 365 sec. Diameter: 19.50 m (63.90 ft). Span: 19.50 m (63.90 ft). Length: 38.00 m (124.00 ft). Propellants: Lox/LH2. No Engines: 2. Engine: M-1. 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.