https://xkcd.com/2909

Alt text:

If you pick a low enough orbit, it gives you a lot of freedom to use a lightweight launch vehicle such as a stepladder.

  • psud@aussie.zoneEnglish
    17·
    8 months ago

    The current Artemis 4 plan

    Gateway

    • Two modules launched together to lunar near rectilinear halo orbit (NHRO)

    Lander

    1. Starship lander launches to LEO
    2. Some large number of starship tankers (or few tankers doing many flights) refuel the lander
    3. Lander flies to NRHO, docks with gateway

    Transport

    1. Crew launch and fly to NHRO in Orion
    2. Orion rendezvous with gateway
    3. Crew land using the lander, do stuff
    4. Crew ascend to NHRO in lander
    5. Lander rendezvous with gateway
    6. Crew return to Earth in Orion