Lunar based massdriver applications

You are here: Homepage > Search

Lunar based massdriver applications

Ehresmann, Manfred / Gabrielli, Roland Atonius / Herdrich, Georg / Laufer, René

AbstractThe results of a lunar massdriver mission and system analysis are discussed and show a strong case for a permanent lunar settlement with a site near the lunar equator. A modular massdriver concept is introduced, which uses multiple acceleration modules to be able to launch large masses into a trajectory that is able to reach Earth. An orbital mechanics analysis concludes that the launch site will be in the Oceanus Procellarum a flat, Titanium rich lunar mare area. It is further shown that the bulk of massdriver components can be manufactured by collecting lunar minerals, which are broken down into its constituting elements. The mass to orbit transfer rates of massdriver case study are significant and can vary between 1.8kt and 3.3 megatons per year depending on the available power. Thus a lunar massdriver would act as a catalyst for any space based activities and a game changer for the scale of feasible space projects.

Highlights•The mass to orbit transfer rates […] can vary between 1.8 kilotons and 3.3 megatons per year […].•The appeal of the stacking concept […] is that […] total current flowing is kept below material limitations.•The appeal of the stacking concept […] is that […] can be integrated to achieve any desired force […].•[…] a lunar massdriver […] will be a game changer for space flight.•The usefulness of a lunar massdriver is a strong case for a permanent lunar settlement […].