A SPACE TRANSFER VEHICLE FOR LUNAR MISSIONS

Two years have passed since the ''90-day study'' on lunar and Mars missions was released. Since then considerable analyses have been performed on the ''optimum'' methods for performing these missions. Consensus is being reached on the initial ''National Launch System'' (NLS) vehicles. This paper examines the latest work done to support options for ground-based single or dual launch missions which utilize NLS and NLS-derived launch vehicles. For minimum new development, the current lunar outpost payload requirements can be satisfied using only the NASA NLS vehicle (2 ASRMs) with a 7.6 m dia shroud. This paper identifies several transfer stages and propulsion technologies that can be developed to perform the lunar mission.