That could well be the answer I was looking for. I don’t know either. But all the logistics of getting a successful launch in the air versus on the ground, just seems mind boggling that it could be any easier or less expensive. I’m looking forward to learning more. Maybe I should call into the Startalk radio show/podcast or a similar one. Maybe a rocketry website can help.
Stratolaunch’s reusability and air-launch capabilities enable us to take an airport-style approach to operations for launch services. Stratolaunch will take off from a runway, rather than a logistically vulnerable fixed range, which allows us to avoid hazards such as inclement weather, airborne traffic and heavy marine activity. Stratolaunch’s airborne launch platform significantly reduces the risk of costly delays or cancellations.
Another factor that contributes to the expense associated with satellites is the cost of putting one into orbit. It is estimated that a single satellite launch can range in cost from a low of about $50 million to a high of about $400 million. Launching a space shuttle mission can easily cost $500 million dollars, although one mission is capable of carrying multiple satellites and send them into orbit.
http://www.globalcomsatphone.com/hughesnet/satellite/costs.html
https://www.quora.com/How-much-does-it-cost-to-set-up-and-launch-a-communications-satellite
There is some food for thought. Then consider they can air-launch 3 of them on a single flight. When looking at the size and cost of a throw away booster that is now eliminated. Don’t have the costs on the SpaceX reusable but consider much of that would be no longer needed. In the images on the Stratolaunch site, the rockets look to be just bigger derivatives of cruise missiles.