Title:
A Value Proposition for Lunar Architectures Utilizing Propellant Re-supply Capabilities
A Value Proposition for Lunar Architectures Utilizing Propellant Re-supply Capabilities
Author(s)
Young, James
Wilhite, Alan
Wilhite, Alan
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Abstract
The NASA Exploration Systems Architecture Study (ESAS)ⁱⁱ produced a transportation
architecture for returning humans to the moon affordably and safely while using commercial
services for tasks such as cargo delivery to low earth orbit (LEO). Another potential utilization
of commercial services is the delivery of cryogenic propellants to LEO for use in lunar
exploration activities. With in-space propellant re-supply available, there is the potential to
increase the payload that can be delivered to the lunar surface, increase lunar mission
durations, and enable a wider range of lunar missions. The addition of on-orbit propellant resupply
would have far-reaching effects on the entire exploration architecture. Currently 70% of
the weight delivered to LEO by the cargo launch vehicle is propellant needed for the TLI burn.
This is a considerable burden and significantly limits the design freedom of the architecture.
The ability of commercial providers to deliver cryogenic propellants to LEO may provide for a
less expensive and better performing lunar architecture.
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Date Issued
2007-09
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Text
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Paper