Launch configurations based on former (now decommissioned) Soviet ICBMs and Soyuz-Fregat, coupled with plasma propulsion as delivery systems for low cost missions beyond low earth orbits

摘要

A number of former Cold War rockets is already suggested as commercially available launch vehicles, usable for delivery of small to medium mass payloads to LEO. Here, we suggest the baseline upgrade on top of nominal capabilities of decommissioned ICBMs to make them cost-efficient delivery vehicles for planetary missions. The specific analysis was made for the case of former SU SS-18 (4 ton to LEO) and SS-19 (～1.6 ton to LEO). In parallel to the launch vehicles derived from the former ICBM's and in view of the recent successful qualification launch, the option of using Soyuz-Fregat was also considered. The paper discusses basic technical requirements for the upper stage boosters and their potential design options. Detailed examples illustrate the mission scenarios to Mars and its moons. The most efficient usage of such delivery configuration is achieved by combining suggested launch schemes with the ultimate use of electric propulsion as part of the spacecraft system.