A decision on using either an evolved expendable launch vehicle (EELV) or Space Shuttle derivative to provide a heavylift capability for space exploration is expected as early as the second quarter, when NASA's exploration chief Craig Steidle plans to present a recommendation to the US space agency's new administrator.
A heavylift vehicle is needed to place the propulsion and habitation modules for future spaceships and Moon and Mars bases into low- Earth orbit. In the next 10 days Steidle will be briefed on the results of over 18 months of trade studies into new booster designs, as well as growth versions of the Boeing Delta IV and Lockheed Martin Atlas V EELVs and Shuttle-derived vehicles.
At a space exploration conference in Florida last week, Steidle identified three areas of consideration in making any recommendation: infrastructure required, technology needed, and development cost. Because development of a heavylift vehicle has major implications, the option of an entirely new vehicle has already been rejected.
ROB COPPINGER / ORLANDO
Source: Flight International
