Continuous Earth-Moon Payload Exchange using Motorised Momentum Exchange Tethers
- Paper number
IAC-08.D2.10.2
- Author
Mr. Christopher Murray, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom
- Coauthor
Prof. Matthew Cartmell, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom
- Year
2008
- Abstract
The construction of a permanent lunar base will provide access to the wealth of resources available on the Moon and provide invaluable experience for future ventures to alien environments. It is vital that a method for the return of these resources to Earth and the replenishment of the resources required by the base is established. A continuous exchange using motorised momentum exchange tethers is capable of meeting these requirements. Two tethers, one in orbit about Earth and another in orbit about the Moon, are used to transfer payloads between one another when the Moon is at the ascending or descending node of its orbit about Earth. Through careful logistical arrangement and trajectory design this continuous exchange is accomplished. The advantages of using the tethers for a continuous Earth-Moon payload exchange are reduced delta-V requirements in comparison with conventional chemical propulsion and the ability to provide frequent opportunities for the exchange of materials. The delta-V reduction is due to the tethers rotation providing the majority of the velocity increment required for injection into trans-Luna or trans-Earth transfers. The design of the continuous Earth-Moon exchange can be adapted to provide a continuous Earth-Mars payload exchange and to near Earth objects.
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
IAC-08.D2.10.2.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).
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