Spirit of pionieers, economy and Solar System exploration

SpaceX’s lesson: SpaceX presents a new approach to astronautics. Its success is a result of the simple application of a commercial approach. Similar breakthroughs were observed when government funding became unnecessary for new technology.

 

SpaceX’s recipes:

Reusability: Falcon 9 – a reusable rocket.

Simplicity: Contrary to most of other rockets, Falcon 9 uses one type of engine only – Merlin 1 (in different versions).

Steady improvements: Initial versions of Merlin had rather moderate parameters. Presently, the engine represents one of the best achievement in technology of RP-1/LOX engines (high specific impulse, high ratio thrust/weight).

Precooling of fuel allows more fuel in the same volume.

 

“Mass” production: A few hundreds of Merlin engines are produced per year. It could be not impressive but it is more than many other rocket engines.

 

Special taxes? Given the high public support for space research, probably politicians may be convinced to introduce a special "space tax"? Currently, the average European spends the equivalent of a can of beer monthly on space research!

 

One-copy? The cost of the rocket is usually less than 10% of the total cost of the interplanetary mission. Most of the money is spent for development of unique devices, produced in one copy.

The second copy of Curiosity Rover evidently would be much cheaper than the R&D + first copy’s production cost (about US$ 2.5 billion). Probably no more than US$ 1 billion. At least six Curiosity class rovers could be useful for Mars research.

 

Better cooperation: Better cooperation between space agencies can be beneficial. Instead of independent attempts to develop technology already developed by others, decisions makers should consider buying ready products, licences, exchanging of technology, etc.

 

Achievements from previous decades: Just as in our wardrobe there are old attractive outfits, so in NASA's wardrobe there are past achievements. NERVA nuclear engine (developed 50 years ago) has specific impulse twice as high as the best chemical engines! Fortunately, US Congress recently has approved funds for the development of nuclear engines.

 

The spirit of pioneers: During the Apollo program, there was enthusiasm and a creative spirit typical of pioneering times. Presently, outstanding people still inspire others by pointing out that the conquest of space does not have to be just the domain of large agencies.

 

Conclusions: The current attitude towards space exploration is often the result of irrational political and nationalistic pressure. SpaceX's success still seems to be ignored by many decision makers. A commercial approach and common sense seem to be the best remedies for many of the problems. Outstanding scientists, engineers and technology entrepreneurs can inspire others and restore the spirit of pioneering times known from the Apollo program.