Brown_2006_2abstr

Copyright © 2006 by James R. Brown. Published by The Mars Society with permission

MARS, SOONER AND CHEAPER: using the new small launch systems to get to Mars earlier and at a lower cost

James R. Brown

Email: jim2mars@sbcglobal.net

ABSTRACT

Using the new small launch systems to get to Mars earlier, and more cost efficiently. Dealing with the fuel boil off problem by taking advantage of the shade at Earth’s orbit, which is at 5° above the absolute zero of interstellar space. Addressing the orbital Fuel Transfers problems and solutions. Addressing the disposable vs. robust reusable launchers issues using SpaceX an example. Should orbital assembly be extensive, simple, simply stacking, or none? What is the best way and place to do final tests of MTV's habitats and ERV's? What are the support needs of people during orbital work? Do they need a space station? What is the required launch ground support? Should we wait for the SSTO, or heavy lifter, such as the Shuttle C or D? Total cost estimates possibly less than $200,000,000 per mission for Mars direct ships in orbit.