Concept of Crew-Tended Platform in Cis-lunar Space: Initial Configuration
- Paper number
IAC-16,A5,1,6,x35444
- Coauthor
Mr. Josh Hopkins, Lockheed Martin Corporation, United States
- Coauthor
Mr. Todd Chapman, Lockheed Martin (Space Systems Company), United States
- Coauthor
Mr. Nikolay Bryukhanov, S.P. Korolev Rocket and Space Corporation Energia, Russian Federation
- Coauthor
Mr. Alexey Bideev, RSC Energia, Russian Federation
- Coauthor
Mr. Rushan Beglov, S.P. Korolev Rocket and Space Corporation Energia, Russian Federation
- Year
2016
- Abstract
Deep space exploration as a next step of human space activities is widely discussed on international, governmental and industry levels, such as by the International Space Exploration Coordination Group (ISECG). An outpost, or crew-tended platform, in cis-lunar space is considered to be the first step towards deep space exploration. Lockheed Martin and RSC Energia have together studied several concepts of such a platform; one of them is presented in this paper. This concept is based on the systems and elements planned to be available in the early 2020s and assumes utilization of Orion/SLS space transportation capability and relatively small pressurized modules developed on the basis of ISS heritage for the initial phase. These small modules would be launched co-manifested with Orion spacecraft on the SLS Block 1B launch vehicle. The modular platform configuration provides gradually improving habitability and resources to initially perform 30-60 days stays in the lunar neighborhood and later increasing to missions of 300-400 days or longer to test out capabilities needed for Mars missions.
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
IAC-16,A5,1,6,x35444.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).
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