A reference study on constructing human exploration station at Earth-Moon Libration point

Paper number

IAC-12,A5,4,9,x15971

Author

Mr. Masanori Tsuboi, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd., Japan

Coauthor

Mr. Toyonori Kobayakawa, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd., Japan

Coauthor

Mr. Kotaro Aoki, Japan

Coauthor

Mr. Yoshichika Tanabe, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd., Japan

Coauthor

Dr. Ko Ogasawara, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd., Japan

Year

2012

Abstract

On Sep 2011, International Space Exploration Coordination Group (ISECG) released reference mission scenario ultimately conducting the manned exploration to Mars. On the course of attaining the ultimate goal, several preparatory exploration missions might be required. One of the most promising intermediate destinations is Earth-Moon Lagrange Points (EMLs) which have unique characteristic of gravitational equilibrium. Among the 5 EMLs, L2 is considered as the most superior position not only as the staging station for further solar system exploration but as the base camp for lunar far side exploration.
This paper outlines the logistic scenario for the L2 station to clarify the affordability in constructing and maintaining such L2 outpost. Assuming the currently existing and evolution system from the current transportation workforces, several patterns of logistic scenario are presented. Also, this paper suggests the possibility of the transportation efficiency improvements by using the swing-by trajectory and by optimum coupling of chemical-electric propulsion.

Abstract document

IAC-12,A5,4,9,x15971.brief.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-12,A5,4,9,x15971.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.