Re: View Ports Re: Freight

On 6/26/2012 1:55 PM, Zan Lynx wrote:

> I have a question. Is there any real point to having external structure
> on a space freighter at all, ball shaped or otherwise?

Typically it's a question of 'does the cargo require expensive surface 
features or other equipment to protect it during transit, which are not 
needed before loading and after unloading'. If so, it may be more 
economical to attach those surface features to the transport (which will 
re-use them) than to the cargo containers. Otherwise, all you need is a 
framework to hold the cargo in place. FTL ships frequently require a 
jump grid or something similar. In the extreme case you have lighter 
aboard ship designs, where the cargo is contained in its own space ship 
(typically one that can go places the main ship can't, such as into 
atmosphere).