Centaur Application to Robotic and Crewed Lunar Lander Evolution

Birckenstaedt, Bonnie; Kutter, Bernard; Zegler, Frank

doi:10.1063/1.2437517

Cited by 4 publications

(1 citation statement)

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“…The Dual Thrust Axis Lander (DTAL) provides another solution that addresses the conflicting requirements of descent and landing while keeping the lander intact all the way to the surface. Like the DASH concept, DTAL utilizes efficient LO2/LH2 propulsion for descent, but transitions to small engines mounted along the stage allowing horizontal landing ( Figure 7) 4,5 . The use of high side-mounted thrusters for terminal descent and landing provides the pilot with a clear view of the surface, unobscured by entrained regolith, easing DTAL's ability to adjust touchdown to ground terrain ( Figure 8).…”

Section: Dual Thrust Axis Landermentioning

confidence: 99%

Robust Lunar Exploration Using an Efficient Lunar Lander Derived from Existing Upper Stages

Kutter

Zegler

Barr

et al. 2009

AIAA SPACE 2009 Conference &Amp; Exposition

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Future large scale lunar exploration is impeded by the high cost of accessing the lunar surface. This cost is composed of terrestrial launch costs and the cost of developing and operating efficient lunar landers capable of delivering crew and large payloads to the lunar surface. Developing lunar landers from a platform based upon an operational upper stage minimizes development and recurring costs while increasing crew safety and reliability. The Dual Thrust Axis Lander (DTAL) lands horizontally. It uses an RL10 engine to accomplish the descent deceleration to just above the lunar surface. Final landing is accomplished using thrusters mounted along the DTAL body. This configuration places the crew and payloads safely and conveniently close to the lunar surface. This paper describes DTAL and its benefits in supporting a robust lunar exploration program. Initial DTAL-enabled large robotic missions allow NASA to return to the moon quickly and demonstrate hardware to be used by crews that follow. This same mission design supports placement of large lunar base elements (habitats, power plants, rovers, excavation equipment, etc). As the uncrewed missions are completed, and the system matures, astronauts will then use the same, now proven system to access the lunar surface. The reliable DTAL propulsion stage provides the flexibility to visit destinations other than the moon. DTAL's mass and thermal efficient design provides the capability to visit NEO's or possibly even Mars. By supplying the life support consumables with O2 and H2 from the large primary propellant tanks long duration missions are possible.

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Section: Dual Thrust Axis Landermentioning

confidence: 99%