Space Launch System's Stretchy Tanks

[Kibble]

Ever since I learned of SLS's configuration with the five segment boosters and stretched core, I've wondered why they did that, since it just adds developement time. But yesterday I was working to Photoshop (somebody else's) art of Space Shuttle into System, and it seemed to naturally evolve that way. Making the core inline means taking the ogive and making it a cylinder. Since the tank walls are the structure, the tank increased in size - room for a lot more oxygen. That means you have to stretch the hydrogen tank with another ring. But since the interstage between the tanks is the main structure supporting the vehicle from the thrust of the SRBs, it makes it too high for the SRB attachment point, so you have to add another segment.

This may just be a coincidence though. Is this (but less stupid, and done by professionals) the design process that led to the current configuration of Space Launch System, or something else entirely?

Here's my Photoshop I think it turned out alright. From Skrabek's Rockets of the World

[Budgie]

Doesn't sound off to me! But what do I know. Anyway, aren't the bottoms of the SRBs supposed to be on or close to the same plane as the RS-25s?

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[Kibble]

aren't the bottoms of the SRBs supposed to be on or close to the same plane as the RS-25s?

I don't know - External Tank on Space Shuttle ends just below the top of the last segment of SRB. I just went off that and added the rocket engines and mounts. Maybe I'll change it when I'm feeling less lazy!

Edited March 13, 2015 by Kibble