Small Lunar Exploration and Delivery System Concept

Abstract

This paper describes an architectural concept for a Small Lunar Exploration and Delivery System to operate as a platform for emplacing payloads into lunar orbit and onto the lunar surface, while providing mobility for surface exploration, science, and infrastructure. The concept leverages emerging services that are capable of delivering payloads to Low Earth Orbit (LEO), while utilizing new and old technologies to build a platform for transfer to Low Lunar Orbit (LLO). Advances and miniaturization in avionics, navigation, power, and propulsion systems enable a unique opportunity to develop a system that is both capable of landing on the lunar surface and providing surface mobility with the same system.