But this IS my idea of relaxation!

For a takeoff using pure thrust and no wings, the thrust-weight ratio for the vehicle has to be more than one (for launch from the Earth's surface, for launch from the Moon it only needs to be more than 0.1654). In general, the thrust-to-weight ratio is numerically equal to the g-force that the vehicle can pull, provided the g-force exceeds local gravity then takeoff can occur. [Definition via Wikipedia.]

( Gundam stats versus existing fighter jets, with focus on comparative height/length, weight, and T/W values. )

...In other words, I am such a frickin' geek.

my brain is so on crack right now.

[When was the last time I had this much fun? Erm, perhaps when I had a weekly fest of my own analysis reflected against that of habibti and _branch_, for Fullmetal Alchemist? Or perhaps farther back, when I had an almost daily immersion into the philosophical and metaphorical ramifications in Whedon's Buffy? Whatever it is, however long it's been, you may just have to tolerate the number of upcoming posts... because truly, I am having way too much fun. Here's hoping it lasts.]

Over on gundam00, shinigami39 posted a few contemplations about Saji, Alleluia, Soma, Louise, and Setsuna, and how they might be tied together (including mention of the current theory from some fans that Saji is slated to be the 5th pilot). [Warning: spoilers for eps 1-5.] ( My answer behind the cut, with additional comments that I didn't put in my reply on the comm, because a) I was long enough already, and b) I'm not convinced everyone really needs exposure to an analyst-philosopher's brain on crack. )

Expanding further on this, along with my further adventures in geekery (per earlier comparative post and penship's replies) will have to wait until later.

Until then, remember: it's not Gundam if no one cries, at least once in the series, "Oh my god, it's... a Gundam!"