Achieving Mastery of Space Operations by Transforming Space Logistics

Logistics Spectrum, Jan-Mar 2005 by Snead, James Michael

Larger versions of the SLV would provide increased mobility within Earth-GEO-Moon space. Single, extended-performance versions could depart the LEO base, travel to geostationary orbit, conduct a servicing mission on a satellite and then return to the base. Two of these SLVs, operating as a staged vehicle, could deploy large satellites into geostationary orbit or deliver a standard cargo container to lunar orbit. On completing the delivery, the SLVs would return to the LEO base for servicing in preparation for the next mission.

After completing assembly of the space hotel, the space dock would be used to assemble the Space Logistics Transport (SLT). The SLT would have two functional capabilities; transporting cargo and passengers, and providing "on-site" logistics support. (see Figure 6.)

The SLT is primarily a modified space hangar with an added propulsion module. The modified hangar would be launched to the space dock using the Super Heavy Spacelifter. The smaller components, such as the propellant tanks, flight deck and rocket engines, would be transported using the reusable space access systems. With this approach, all of the components, except for the SLT's hangar, can be checked out and configured for installation within the base's pressurized hangars.

Incorporating a hangar into the SLT's design enables the logistics support architecture - parts, tools, equipment, technicians, training, etc. - developed initially for LEO logistics operations to be extended throughout Earth-GEO-Moon space. This is a key step in extending mastery of space operations. It affords future space mission planners, developers and operators a defined set of available logistics services that can be included in their operational model. And, as a direct consequence, this also provides a set of critical subsystems (e.g., propulsion and power), and an associated supplier base that can be tapped to design these new missions at a lower cost and with increased confidence.

With the use of nuclear thermal propulsion, the SLT would be capable of conducting missions to geostationary orbit, lunar orbit and the Earth-Moon libration points. The SLT would be able to transport astronauts and cargo for the renewed lunar exploration program to lunar orbit or deliver new space telescopes to the libration points. It could also be used to support the deployment of large satellites, such as ultra-high power communication satellites built in the Space Logistics Base's space dock, in geostationary orbit.

The SLT can also carry and refuel. smaller spacecraft such as the SLV Configured for surface landing, modified SLVs could be used to ferry passengers and cargo to and from the lunar surface. Thus, the combination of near-term reusable space access systems, LEO bases, SLT, and SLV would provide an integrated space transportation network capable of transporting passengers and cargo almost anywhere within the Earth-Moon system, with the next step, of course, being on to Mars.

Conclusion

In the late 1960s Dr. Von Braun spoke at an early meeting of SOLE in Huntsville, Alabama: