Until they find and pay for a launch, they don't have a viable HEO program either. Unfortunately, and this is my opinion, I believe the size and shape of that HEO severely restricts how it can get to orbit. I'm not criticizing the German effort, I support it. I merely am pointing out a problem that we must avoid. We do indeed learn as we go.
Andrew, it all depends on how you define "Program".
If you want to build a homebuilt airplane and have all the drawings and schematics/plans etc...then you could say "I have a program"... on the other hand if you have a 90 percent built airplane in your garage...well
I am quite sure the only way for P3E to get to orbit is Ariane. That is also the mechanism through which the money is going to come.
If suitsat 2 is any indication, if Elon Musk told Amsat tomorrow you could have space on his Falcon 9, probably couldnt make it with Amsat's record.
Robert WB5MZO
_________________________________________________________________ Windows Live: Make it easier for your friends to see what you’re up to on Facebook. http://windowslive.com/Campaign/SocialNetworking?ocid=PID23285::T:WLMTAGL:ON...