Using the Scorpion as an Interplanetary Transportation System

Abstract

The Scorpion is a nuclear powered transportation system that can extend the human infrastructure beyond low Earth orbit. Past work has shown its capability in high Earth orbits out to the Hill sphere and Lunar surface operations. However, the Scorpion was also intended to conduct interplanetary missions. The functionality required for interplanetary missions is the same, the only major differences are the mission length and the mission velocities. This means the Scorpion will need to carry additional supplies and also requires a boost to leave low Earth orbit. The boost can be provided in one of three ways; using another Scorpion as a boost stage, using a specialist cargo derivative of the Scorpion (called Taurus) or departing from a Spaceport in the Lunar environment used to support the infrastructure on the Moon surface. It is shown the Scorpion can reach Venus, Mars and many asteroids, but has problems reaching the asteroid main belt and gas giants beyond.