Exploring the Unknown: Selected Documents in ... - The Black Vault

Exploring the Unknown 259
2.4 Training Although much can be accomplished by ground simulation
training, there does not seem to be any real substitute for actual
experience in space. Thus, a by-product of this project would be to
provide a means of increasing the number of astronauts who have
had actual experience in space. A two-manned spacecraft will be an
excellent vehicle for this purpose.
2.5 Project Philosophy In general, the philosophy used in the conception
of this project is to make maximum use of available hardware,
basically developed for other programs, modified to meet the needs
of this project. In this way, requirements for hardware development
and qualification are minimized and timely implementation of the
project is assured.
Another fundamental concept is that in the design of the spacecraft,
all systems will be modularized and made independent of each other
as much as possible. In this way, an evolutionary process of product
improvement and mission adaptation may be implemented with a
minimum of time and effort. Thus, it will be possible to use equipment
of varying degrees of sophistication as it becomes available and as the
mission requirements are tightened. It is important that a minimum
of lead time can be obtained by making use of the latest hardware
developments. This concept will make possible the attainment of
mission and permits reasonable compromises to be made in the face
of difficulties rather than excessive delays that otherwise might be
required to meet the full objectives.
This project will provide a versatile spacecraft/booster combination
which will be capable of performing a variety of missions. It will be
a fitting vehicle for conducting further experiments rather than be
the object of experiments. For instance, the rendezvous techniques
developed for the spacecraft might allow its use as a vehicle for
resupply or inspection of orbiting laboratories or space stations,
orbital rescue, personnel transfer, and spacecraft repair.
[Parts V-VIII not included]
PART IX-PROJECT RESULTS
The results to be realized from successful accomplishment of the MK II
program include the following:
1. Operational Techniques Rendezvous and docking techniques will
become operational, making possible the assembly of vehicles in
orbit for extended exploration of space. Techniques for reduction of
landing dispersion, through the use of reentry lift and the paraglider
landing concept, will be developed and optimized. The relative
roles of onboard and ground-based intelligence and optimum manmachine
relationships will be established.