Ares IV
- This article is about the proposed Ares IV launch vehicle. For the fictional vehicle from Star Trek, see Ares IV.
The Ares IV launch vehicle is the third in a series of proposed heavy-lift space launch vehicles that will support Project Constellation, the United States' current program of manned space exploration.
Description
As described by NASA in January, 2007[1], the 113m (367ft) vehicle would consist of the liquid-fueled core stage from the Ares V heavy lift launch vehicle (LV) design, two five-segment solid rocket boosters, and the liquid-fueled upper stage from the Ares I LV. Total payload capacity would be 41,100kg (90,420lb) to 240km (385 miles) for direct trans-lunar injection.
Mission
The Ares IV would be capable of launching either the Lunar Surface Access Module (LSAM) or the Block 2 lunar mission Orion crew exploration vehicle (CEV) into a direct lunar trajectory. After two Ares IV launches, one for the manned Orion spacecraft and one for the unmanned LSAM lander, the Orion and LSAM vehicles would rendezvous and dock, then travel together to lunar orbit.
References
- ^ Rob Coppinger (2 Jan 2007). "NASA quietly sets up budget for Ares IV lunar crew launch vehicle with 2017 test flight target". Flight International.
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