The Solar System Cruiser—Interstellar Precursor

Abstract

Although the current space climate is focused on developing cheaper access to space and performing smaller, well-defined science payloads, the ultimate future calls for a permanent human presence in space, crowned with the achievement of interstellar travel. Whether that expansion comes from practical drives — the taxation of the limits of the carrying capacity of Earth — or more romantic, exploratory impulses, prudence dictates that we begin preparations far in advance of our departure date. There are numerous technological feats to master, in the guise of physical systems such as propulsion and shielding, and biological systems such as life support. But serious issues of design and systems integration also emerge, and their scope and difficulties may need several testing iterations for even their definition. A Solar System Cruiser that cycles between inner and outer planets, improving and evolving along each voyage, represents a phased mission architecture that both utilizes existing infrastructure while validating future technologies and testing human factors limits. As such, it might provide a valuable exercise in design learning that will serve humankind well in future grand undertakings such as interstellar travel. In addition, it may provide valuable infrastructure, material resource and science development for its useful lifetime.