A Proposed LOX and LCH4 Propellant Depot

摘要

The authors propose a large propellant depot for inter-vehicle transfers of liquid oxygen and liquid methane fluids. It would feature the visiting vehicles lying parallel to one another in a "compact circle" configuration and slowly rotating. A high volume propellant depot would support a Mars colonization project utilizing the Mars Colonial Transporter or other methane-burning vehicle. Size parameters and rotation rates of alternative depots configurations are presented. Detailed design features of an example depot are examined, including its geometry, framework layout, materials, common plumbing systems, movement control system, heat shielding and dispersion, and power generation. Remote-controlled robotic arms may be employed to operate the depot; they will assist in docking vehicles and in providing in-space maintenance for the depot and its vehicles. The robotic arms may also be employed to construct the depot at low cost by employing compact packing of a cargo bay and advanced robotic techniques. The depot would accommodate a range of vehicle sizes and shapes and therefore may be appropriate for an inter-company or international facility.