There may be a full human launch system in the works, atleast it is in the planning:
http://www.esa.int/esaHS/SEMKCY4DHNF_iss_0.html
In short, it is a modified ATV with return capabilities on a modified Ariane 5. ATV based configuration can do automated docking in space, so I was wondering whether this would be a way to get to the moon aswell. It would need a bigger service module with more thrust to escape from moon orbit to return to earth, plus obviously there would need to be a lander.
A full mission to the moon and back might require two to three launches and dockings on LEO before heading to the moon. A lot of the hardware exists and has been tested. I was wondering whether NASA could build the lander for a moon mission? I see no reason why we could not be standing on the moon at 2020 using this system as the hardware platform.
I'll see if I can get more a bit more info about the status of the design.
http://www.esa.int/esaHS/SEMKCY4DHNF_iss_0.html
In short, it is a modified ATV with return capabilities on a modified Ariane 5. ATV based configuration can do automated docking in space, so I was wondering whether this would be a way to get to the moon aswell. It would need a bigger service module with more thrust to escape from moon orbit to return to earth, plus obviously there would need to be a lander.
A full mission to the moon and back might require two to three launches and dockings on LEO before heading to the moon. A lot of the hardware exists and has been tested. I was wondering whether NASA could build the lander for a moon mission? I see no reason why we could not be standing on the moon at 2020 using this system as the hardware platform.
I'll see if I can get more a bit more info about the status of the design.
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram