Constellation lunar capability point of departure architecture

This paper describes and discusses the Constellation point of departure lunar capability architecture. Constellation is NASA´s program to implement the human exploration of the moon and Mars. This paper focuses on the overall design and operational strategy for the Constellation lunar transportation system architecture including the Ares V heavy lift launch vehicle, Altair lunar lander and early concepts for lunar surface systems including habitats and mobile vehicles. The architecture builds on the initial capability vehicles of Ares I and Orion as they will initially fly to the international space station. The architecture is based on extensive trade studies of surface system objectives, lunar lander design options and Ares V design options. In addition to the description of the architecture this paper will briefly provide status of the initial capability building blocks of Ares I and Orion.