Why not try a system that will work.... (Score 1)

Why not try a system that will work as a platform for future space exploration? All of the problems that are plaguing the Space Shuttle could easily be solved by a SSO (Single Stage to Orbit) design like the X-33. These designs have a dramatic increase in safety and cost effectiveness and in some configurations can even be "launched" horizontally like a conventional aircraft. NASA appears to be so paralyzed that it no longer has the capacity to come up with innovative and elegant solutions.

While the current NASA design for the CEV will most certainly take us to the moon as a similar technology did in the late 60's - early 70's where do we go from there? How will this design be a platform for future exploration? The answer is that it won't. I agree that the HLV is an excellent platform to have around and should be built as a sort of "Space Truck" for heavy cargo but the return to capsule technology is simply a politically charged exodus toward proven technology for the appearance of reliability and acceptance.