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Perchonok, E.

Publications and source records attributed to Perchonok, E..

Extending the utility of the Space Shuttle as a space rescue vehicle.

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.

Perchonok, E.↗

The earth orbit shuttle as a space rescue vehicle.

According to present concepts starting with some future date all manned space missions beyond low-earth orbit are to originate in low-earth orbit and to return ultimately to low-earth orbit. The Earth-Orbit-Shuttle (EOS) is visualized as the only vehicle operating between earth and low-earth orbit. The ability of the EOS to provide rescue services in the case of emergency is evaluated. It is found that an employment of the EOS as rescue vehicle is basically feasible, although it has certain limitations. Complementary means of transportation are required for emergencies beyond low-earth orbit. Approaches to enhance the rescue mission utility of the EOS are discussed.

Hinton, M. G., Jr.↗