AN APPROACH TO DEVELOP HUMAN SPACE TRANSPORTATION SYSTEMS FOR LOW EARTH ORBIT AND BEYOND

摘要

JAXA has developed the HTV cargo transportation vehicle for the ISS. The 3rd HTV was successfully launched on July 21, 2012. As the next step for the ISS logistics capability contribution, JAXA is studying the feasibility of developing a return vehicle with the HTV modification named the HTV-R. We are also conducting research on the human space transportation systems for future human space exploration activities, including international cooperation. It is beneficial to conduct those development activities via collaboration, to save money and share technologies. Major advanced technologies for both systems include thermal protection systems and maneuvering systems during the re-entry and return to Earth. This paper summarizes the building blocks approach for the human space transportation system or crew vehicle development, which makes the technical challenges moderate as well as cost savings for development. Both integrated and cost-effective options are assessed.