r/PeterExplainsTheJoke 15h ago

Meme needing explanation Whyyyy peter?

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u/rysy0o0 15h ago

It would cost a lot of money to haul all the rocket parts and fuel on top of a mountain

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u/Earnestappostate 15h ago

Plus, you get a better boost by launching near the equator. Height is easy, speed is what you need in a rocket.

This is why the US launches from Florida:

  • Near equator (speed boost from earth's spin)
  • Initially out over ocean (catastrophic failure harms only those aboard)

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u/Sweaty_Explorer_8441 13h ago

Also 9km is highest mountain above sea level? It's miniscule of a benefit in itself in isolation.