A concept for using the external tank from a National Space Transportation System for a lunar habitat is described. The tank is inserted in low earth orbit where it is outfitted as a 12-person lunar habitat. The tank modifications utilize existing structures and openings for man access without compromising the structural integrity of the tank. The modifications include installation of living quarters, instrumentation, and airlock; and thermal-control, environmental-control and life-support, and propulsion systems. The habitat is designed for unmanned transport to low lunar orbit and autonomously soft landed on the lunar surface. Supply to the habitat is provided by a space transfer vehicle and manned cargo lander. The lunar habitat concept is feasible by the year 2000 with the concurrent development of a space transfer vehicle and manned cargo lander for crew changeover and resupply.
A concept for using the external tank from a National Space Transportation System (NSTS) for a lunar habitat
Princeton/AIAA/SSI Conference ; 1989 ; Princeton, NJ, United States
1989-01-01
Aufsatz (Konferenz)
Keine Angabe
Englisch