Lunar orbit and lander?

[john_316]

Ok someone who likes to work with a slide rule, here is one for you to think about.<br /><br />Using a DC-X derived lander how much weight are we talking for 6 astronauts and for the entire ship to return to orbit from the moon. Now the lander can't be used at the habitat just a straight shot reusable craft that can be repaired in lunar orbit or LEO and return say sample returns. The original landers weighted in at 16 and 18 tons I would see something heavier here even for a crew of 6.<br /><br />Now how large of an object can we orbit around the moon without rapid decay and how far would that orbit extend outward too? For example a orbital lunar lab for say 3-4 personel or dock for the CEV and Lunar Lander?<br /><br />I am looking at say 20 to 35 ton docking module here for orbital stay? How long would it stay in a close orbit without rapid decay and minimum thrust for reorientation? How high would that orbit be? <br /><br />Sorry I am not good with fuzzy math....<br />