*RCS Only* Single Stage to (Permanent) Orbit

[Geometrian]

I had a goal of making a SSTO using only RCS thrusters. No rockets. No jets. No ion engines or sepratons for a boost even.

I failed miserably, but today I decided to have another go. I succeeded, and the result is essentially just some on the larger RCS tanks stacked on top of each other. This seems to be semi-identical to the very few other success stories out there.

Here's the .craft file, in case anyone's interested. Directions included. The title is a bit of an exaggeration; this one can get to over a 200K orbit, so it could do a 100K orbit and deorbit easily; early versions were not so lucky. Bob, you will be missed.

Anyone make an actually elegant RCS SSTO?

[Gaalidas]

All I can say is... better get ready for a long nap while that thing takes off.

[Kerbart]

What's your definition of RCS? Monoprop engines? The O-10 can be used? Or the way the engine is controlled (Vernor can be used)?

[Geometrian]

All I can say is... better get ready for a long nap while that thing takes off.

Eh? Actually, since the thing rides close tolerances all the way up, it takes both a lot of skill and concentration to power the ascent, which, since the gravity turn doesn't happen in atmo, is briefer than a chemical rocket.

What's your definition of RCS? Monoprop engines? The O-10 can be used? Or the way the engine is controlled (Vernor can be used)?

Good question. I meant monopropellant-power only. It has lower specific impulse, which is why it's difficult. Compare the O-10 (290s) and the RV-105 (260s) best case versus e.g. Mainsail (320s) worst case. Generally the difference is more like 50%-100%, which starts hurting a lot for a SSTO.