Practical methods for near-term piloted Mars missionsAn evaluation is made of ways of using near-term technologies for direct and semidirect manned Mars missions. A notable feature of the present schemes is the in situ propellant production of CH4/O2 and H2O on the Martian surface in order to reduce surface consumable and return propellant requirements. Medium-energy conjunction class trajectories are shown to be optimal for such missions. Attention is given to the backup plans and abort philosophy of these missions. Either the Russian Energia B or U.S. Saturn VII launch vehicles may be used.
Document ID
19930065918
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Zubrin, Robert M. (Martin Marietta Astronautics Group Denver, CO, United States)
Weaver, David B. (NASA Johnson Space Center Houston, TX, United States)
Date Acquired
August 16, 2013
Publication Date
June 1, 1993
Subject Category
Astronautics (General)
Report/Patent Number
AIAA PAPER 93-2089
Meeting Information
Meeting: AIAA, SAE, ASME, and ASEE, Joint Propulsion Conference and Exhibit