Highly Elliptical Rendezvous Orbits to Minimize Cryogenic Propellant Losses and Maximize Payload

摘要

The highly elliptical rendezvous orbit (HERO) tug method can significantly increase payload mass to destinations with lower development costs. The case study results showed that 19,000 kg of payload can be delivered to Mars using three Delta IV Heavy rockets. Three Atlas V rockets can send 20,500 kg to Venus or Mars, and 8000 kg to Jupiter. Three Delta IV rockets can send 24,000 kg to Venus and Mars, and 8000 kg to Jupiter. The Space Tug HERO concept meets the ultimate goal of providing ΔV to payload with a lower development cost owing to its simplicity in design and implementation.