Mission and space vehicle concepts

Abstract

This paper discusses a number of top-level considerations which affect Mars and vehicle selection. Indications are provided of the nature and severity of the impact of these considerations on missions and vehicles. The paper identifies and discusses various types of missions, such as Mars fly-bys, Mars orbiting and landing missions, and missions to the moons of Mars. Mission trajectories and opportunities are discussed briefly. The paper also discusses the different types of vehicles required in a Mars program. Discussion includes several potential Earth-to-Orbit (ETO) vehicles, Mars surface vehicles, and 2 types of Orbit-to-Orbit (OTO) vehicles. Indications are provided as to preference for some of the concepts discussed.