We propose an interplanetary transportation system which will provide a round trip for humans traveling from Earth to Mars and back. The journey will be relatively fast and relatively safe from radiation dosage. The basic concept consists of four space vehicles. First, a comparatively heavily shielded, large spacecraft (LC(number sign)1), which usually is unmanned, is put into a non-stop heliocentric orbit which closely passes Earth and Mars, in that order. Second, but during the same time frame, a second large spacecraft (LC(number sign)2), which will be used for the return trip, is launched into an orbit which closely passes Mars and Earth in turn. Third, but also during the same time period, an unmanned cargo vessel, containing LH and other supplies, is sent to Mars and lands before any humans depart. Fourth, a comparatively small spacecraft (SC) carrying the crew is launched from the Earth's moon (Moon), travels to a rendezvous point with LC(number sign)1 and couples to it. The crew transfers to the relative comfort and safety of the LC. When they reach Mars, the SC decouples from LC(number sign)1 and lands on Mars, while LC(number sign)1 continues in its orbit. The crew spends about four weeks on Mars, during which time the SC is re-supplied with materials from the cargo ship which was previously sent to Mars. The crew then leaves Mars in the SC and proceeds to a rendezvous point with LC (number sign)2 and couples to it. The crew transfers to it and travels back to the vicinity of the Earth. Then the crew transfers back to the SC and returns to the Moon. 5 refs., 3 figs., 1 tab.
Human round trip to Mars: Six months and radiation-safe
1991
13 pages
Report
Keine Angabe
Englisch
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