The
Exploration Gateway Platform[1] is a design proposed by
Boeing in December 2011 to drastically reduce the cost of
Moon,
Near Earth Asteroids (NEAs), or
Mars
missions by using components already designed to construct a refueling
depot and servicing station located at one of the Earth–Moon
Lagrange points, L1 or L2.
[2]
The system claims its cost savings based on an ability to be reused for
multiple missions such as a launch platform for deep space exploration,
robotic relay station for moon rovers, telescope servicing and a deep
space practice platform located outside the Earth's protective radiation
belts.
The platform would be constructed at
International Space Station (ISS) for testing before being relocated to L1 or L2 via electric or chemical propulsion rockets.
Construction
The Platform would consist of parts left over from the ISS program. Parts currently under consideration are
Node 4 to form the main connection point, parts from the Space Shuttle's
Orbital Maneuvering System (OMS) and Orbiter External Airlock would be combined to form a utility module for maneuvering, orientation and
Extra-vehicular activity (EVA), a smaller version of the
Canadian Arm to help with logistic and station-keeping, one of the remaining
MPLM and/or possible inclusion of a '
Zvezda 2' or a
Bigelow Inflatable station
for life support systems, crew accommodations, storage, and laboratory
space. Most components would be lifted into orbit using currently
available
EELV or
commercial launchers. A reusable lander would be positioned at the platform for Moon landings and refueled using NASA's new SLS heavy lift vehicle.
[1]
See also
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