Yeah! I hear you, shuttle_guy: He's been quiet for a few weeks and then this is what he comes up with -- THIS?!!<br /><br />Instead of using a CEV which is designed with the LSAM lunar architecture in mind and for use with that LSAM, Gaeto proposes using two Chinese vehicles, admittedly better than Soyuz (but not THAT much) for a mission config. that exists only in his computer, and that many professional engineers would tell him is full of holes. Namely: even more multiple launches and Earth Orbit Rendezvous, Not to mention the political and logistical nightmare that would ensue. (Best case: years of delays and billions for redesign, worst case: nightmarish beyond our wildest experience with U.S.-Russia ISS delays).<br /><br />The strength of Mike Griffin's Lunar architecture is its operational structure that is both familiar AND innovative: oh yes, I've got some minor quibbles with it, but on the whole I think it'll work out fine. Whereas Gaeto is pushing some sort of half-baked, <br />psychedelic mongrel of an idea.<br /><br />And I'm predicting (sadly) that he'll push and push this like someone with an O.C.D. until, unable to get his way, he goes quiet for awhile.....<br /><br />Until the next time.<br /><br />**GAETO: I'd have far more respect for your ideas of alternative lunar access if you'd be pushing something like a COMPLETE alternative to ESAS with no CEV or LSAM: Something like a Shenzhou or Soyuz lunar flyby, whereby they rendezvous and transfer crew to a re-usable lunar descent/ascent tug-lander, that refuels from lunar ice.<br /><br />OR: Using an eventual private-industry lunar architecture where, after first pre-deploying inflatable pressurised Hab module-lander onto the lunar surface, crew rovers, and a logistics/supply lander. Same basic chassis used for all landers, only the payload on their back differs.<br /><br />This should give enough supplies and Habspace for a crew of 2, for 1-to-2 weeks on the lunar surface. <br /><br />1): Largest Falcon-derived or Prot <div class="Discussion_UserSignature"> <p> </p><p>One Percent of Federal Funding For Space: America <strong><em><u>CAN</u></em></strong> Afford it!! LEO is a <strong><em>Prison</em></strong> -- It's time for a <em><strong>JAILBREAK</strong></em>!!</p> </div>