Evolutionary growth of a Shuttle Derived Vehicle for lunar Mars missions
Abstract
The evolutionary growth concepts of a heavy lift Shuttle Derived Vehicle (SDV) for the Space Exploration Initiative are discussed. The preliminary design of an SDV heavy launch vehicle, Shuttle-C, will provide over 100,000 lbs of payload capability to low earth orbit and utilize the space transportation system elements of the external tank, solid rocket boosters, and the Space Shuttle main engines. Potential missions include orbital and suborbital deployment of planetary vehicles, deployment of earth orbiting platforms, geosynchronous orbit missions, Space Station assembly and logistics resupply, and Space Exploration Initiative missions. The vehicle also has adequate volume and performance to launch cryogenic fuels at densities of 15 lbs per cubic foot. Shuttle-C orbiter design synergism, cargo carrier inboard profile, growths options for increased diameter, and tanker options are presented. Payload density comparisons for a 15 ft diameter bay are given and performance is plotted against payload bay volume.
- Publication:
-
AIAA, Space Programs and Technologies Conference
- Pub Date:
- September 1990
- Bibcode:
- 1990aiaa.confZ....H
- Keywords:
-
- Cryogenic Rocket Propellants;
- Lunar Spacecraft;
- Manned Mars Missions;
- Shuttle Derived Vehicles;
- Manned Spacecraft;
- Space Shuttle Orbiters;
- Space Transportation System;
- Spacecraft Design;
- Launch Vehicles and Space Vehicles