The dream of sending humans to Mars has spurred innovations in space travel and fuel logistics. One intriguing concept involves using propellants derived from the Moon to fuel Mars-bound spacecraft in cis-lunar space. However, a recent study in IgMin Research critically examines this approach, challenging its practicality and efficiency.
The Proposal: Lunar In-Situ Propellant Production (ISPP)
The proposed strategy involves mining lunar resources to produce propellant on the Moon and transporting it to cis-lunar space. This propellant would fuel Mars-bound spacecraft, potentially reducing the initial mass launched from Earth. Proponents argue that this method aligns with NASA’s Evolvable Lunar Campaign objectives of utilizing lunar resources to support Mars missions.
The Findings
The study reveals critical challenges:
- Minimal Mass Savings: The propellant required to travel from low Earth orbit (LEO) to cis-lunar space is nearly equivalent to that needed for a direct trans-Mars injection (TMI). As a result, lunar ISPP offers negligible reductions in the initial mass in LEO (IMLEO).
- High Costs and Risks: The infrastructure for lunar mining, propellant production, and transportation to cis-lunar space introduces substantial costs and operational risks.
- Increased Complexity: Adding an extra step in cis-lunar space complicates mission planning and logistics without significant benefits.
Conclusion
The findings suggest that direct TMI from LEO is more efficient, cost-effective, and straightforward. While lunar ISPP remains an exciting concept for future exploration, its application to Mars-bound missions appears unwarranted given current technologies and costs.
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