Computer Science – Robotics
Scientific paper
Sep 1993
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=1993aiaa.confs....j&link_type=abstract
Conference Paper, AIAA Paper 93-4784
Computer Science
Robotics
Lunar Exploration, Lunar Surface Vehicles, Propellants, Technology Utilization, Lunar Landing Modules, Logistics, Spacecraft Design, Cost Analysis
Scientific paper
Lunar exploration attempts have suffered from high projected costs of spaceflight hardware development and production. A method of reducing these costs is proposed: the utilization of propellant produced on the moon at program inception. This technique permits down-sizing of the required transportation systems and should enable lunar missions using a single STS-derived launch vehicle. The technical feasibility of this concept has been validated by preliminary space transportation and surface system design efforts. The required technologies emphasize electric surface vehicles, automation and robotics, and reliable chemical processing. Cost assessments were performed and compared to estimates based on a lunar exploration scheme to evaluate the effectiveness of this strategy. Results indicate that early production and utilization of lunar propellant leads to lower hardware development costs, lower cost uncertainties, and a reduction in human transportation costs of approximately fifty percent.
Guerra Lisa A.
Joosten B. K.
No associations
LandOfFree
Early lunar resource utilization - A key to human exploration does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.
If you have personal experience with Early lunar resource utilization - A key to human exploration, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Early lunar resource utilization - A key to human exploration will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1559634