Lunar Surface Locomotion

Abstract

This chapter discusses the lunar surface locomotion. The first requirement for lunar exploration, once the basic two-way transportation problem has been solved, is shelter and a means of moving about locally. Once these are provided, the lunar explorer will be able to undertake the task of selenological exploration—surface and sub-surface alike. The constraints imposed upon the lunar exploration equipment by Earth–Moon transportation fall into two classes. The first-class constraints arise from the specification that the Saturn-Apollo retains the original lunar orbit rendezvous flight mode and the requirement that no improvements occur in the space vehicle. The second class of constraint evolves from the Saturn-Apollo being permitted to follow the direct flight mode and a replacement of the lunar excursion module (LEM) by the multi-mission-module (MMM). This transportation constraint results in a lunar expedition of three men, a maximum of 90 days stay time. It is significant to note that the analysis of lunar surface operations to date shows virtually the same requirement arising for the ground locomotion machine in either class of expedition. A lunar ground locomotion device is generally referred to as Molab , whose name stems from the words mobile lunar laboratory. The Molab is capable of traversing the lunar surface under the direct control of the on-board crew members or by remote control from the Mission Control Center (MCC) at the Manned Spacecraft Center in Houston, Texas, and can support two explorers for 14 days of exploration activity plus an additional 7 days under survival. The Molab designs make substantial use of developed Apollo components, especially in the environmental control, the life support, and the astrionics equipment. Subsequently, the principal constraints for any Molab design are the volume and mass restrictions imposed by the Saturn 5 launch vehicle and the LEM/Truck.