ESA Document - Emits - ESA

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Front Node
3.2.3.1.3 EVA systems
Figure 3-9: Front Node
HMM
Assessment Study
Report: CDF-20(A)
February 2004
page 135 of 422
The astronauts’ ability to move around and conduct useful tasks outside the pressurised volume
is a required capability. A conceptual airlock configuration was designed taking the ISS airlock
as example. The part directly connected to the back node is a facility for EVA suit maintenance
and consumables servicing.
3.2.3.1.4 Earth return capsule
The design of the ERC is not included in the current study. The ERC shown in Figure 3-9 is just
an artistic impression of an ERC design.
3.2.3.2 Propulsion module
Cupola
Mars Excursion Vehicle
Figure 3-10 shows the complete Propulsion Module. A modular system has been proposed for
the PM. Separate propulsion systems, which are jettisoned after its usage, are designed for the
three main propulsive manoeuvres:
• Trans Mars Injection (TMI)
• Mars Orbit Insertion (MOI)
• Trans Earth Injection (TEI)
A central cylinder of 5 m diameter acts as the backbone (Figure 3-11) of the PM. All the stacks
are attached to this support structure (a stack is an autonomous propulsion system with an engine
and propellant tanks). The large diameter of the backbone is driven by the need to have sufficient
space between four stacks in one plane.