Back to the Future: A Saturn V-Based Low Earth Orbital Transportation Node

by Thomas J. Frieling, Bainbridge Coll, Bainbridge, United States,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Engineering, Construction, and Operations in Space III

Abstract:

The Space Exploration Initiative requires a heavy-lift launch vehicle to succeed. Reviving the Saturn V represents the best option for regaining heavy-lift. Utilizing the Saturn V's two-stage-to-orbit capability will allow the S-II second stage to be used as an orbital transfer stage. Berthed and refueled at a simple low earth orbital transportation node, the S-II will support the assembly of large lunar payloads for transfer to trans-lunar trajectories. Reviving the smaller Saturn 1B as a launch vehicle for the HL-20 Personnel Launch System will provide safer access to space since the HL-20 is being designed with abort capabilities for all flight regimes.

Subject Headings: Orbits | Vehicles | Space exploration | Aircraft and spacecraft | Payloads | Moon | Aerospace engineering

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