Analysis of a Lunar Ascent and Descent System Utilizing In Situ Produced Oxygen

Within the framework of extended lunar exploration campaign, a reusable ascent descent system enabling crew and cargo transport between a man-tended free flyer and a permanent lunar base, utilizing in situ produced oxygen, is examined. The paper presents a short mission analysis to determine under which circumstances the reusable ascent/descent system is beneficial. Therefore man-tended free flyers in Earth-Moon-Lagrange point 1 and in a low lunar orbit (LLO) have been investigated. Based on this a detailed system design is conducted. Furthermore a system lifetime performance calculation has been carried out.