In general, there are two ways for the Shuttle to participate in a rescue mission. In one case, the Orbiter itself will rendezvous with the distressed vehicle and will serve as the rescue vehicle. In the other case, at least one additional stage is introduced. The Shuttle merely serves as the first two stages of booster. The rescue vehicle which will rendezvous with the distressed vehicle is actually a manned rescue module provided with a propulsion capability. Aspects of increased propellant loading are discussed together with orbital refueling, and additional staging. A three-stage, single Tug configuration has a lunar orbit round trip capability of approximately 5 klb.
Extending the utility of the Space Shuttle as a space rescue vehicle.
International Astronautical Federation, International Astronautical Congress ; 1972 ; Vienna, Austria
1972-10-01
Conference paper
No indication
English
Space Rescue/Utility Vehicle Feasibility Study
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