NASA considering sending new vehicles to the moon
So far, all of the rovers that NASA has sent to the moon have been of the unpressurized variety, meaning that the astronauts are required to be inside their spacesuits. It looks like NASA is considering changing that with concepts of their next moon-bound rover. Described as a moving habitat, the vehicles could be used in missions as long as two weeks and would be sent out in pairs in case one breaks down. Mike Gernhardt, NASA's lead for extravehicular physiology systems and performance projects says "If you can picture this thing, it's kind of a combination between a spacesuit and a sports car." The picture above doesn't look too much like a sports car, but maybe with the distinct lack of gravity on the moon, the performance would be stellar? The vehicles likely would be electric, powered either by a fuel cell or solar, or both. NASA is not known for doing things on the cheap, and when queried on the projected cost of such a vehicle, Gernhardt replied, "I will only say that it will be more than a Ferrari." Ya think?
[Source: Space.com]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Domenick 4:12PM (9/22/2007)
This thing does not impress. It looks difficult to get into the riding position and is just overkill.
I think the time is now for a Moon Segway! A lot cheaper. I think you could store a couple of them under the back bumper of the lunar lander with little difficulty. Just bring a long a separate solar charging unit and voila! Lunar mobility!
(NASA, please contact me through e-mail for instructions on where to send my check)
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Chris M 10:30PM (9/23/2007)
Considering the huge national debt and ongoing deficits and a strong political aversion to tax increases, an economic crisis is immenent. The result will be all unnecessary government spending will be cut or canceled, and manned spaceflights are not in any way necessary. Plans to return to the moon will be shelved, and the moon buggy project with it.
Too bad. There is something oddly endearing about this space RV/inside-out closet design.
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