Only a few of the launch system concepts likely to be explored over the Bifrost program will have true GEO capability by themselves and many will be quite limited in payload capacity precluding the addition of booster systems. Thus their use for supporting GEO facilities will depend on the additional use a reusable inter-orbital vehicle for transfer from a LEO rendezvous point. Early on the use of dual-launch missions where separate launch vehicles supply booster and payload for mutual rendezvous on orbit before transfer will be a likely strategy and may often be preferred for the largest one-off unit payloads and quick transits. But eventually a permanent transfer facility may become necessary for more routine transit. Hence the need for an Inter-Orbital Shuttle.
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