PENTAGON EYES SPACEX STARSHIP FOR ORBITAL GAS STATIONS

[HaiderAfan]

The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) is exploring the potential of SpaceX's Starship for in-space refueling, which could revolutionize space travel by enabling missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond.

Key Points:

• Orbital Gas Stations: The concept involves establishing "gas stations" in low Earth orbit (LEO), allowing spacecraft to refuel and extend their range without requiring massive fuel tanks at launch.
• Increased Delta-v: Refueling in LEO could provide Starship with an additional 9 km/s of delta-v (change in velocity), significantly enhancing its capabilities8.
• Elon Musk's Vision: Elon Musk has long advocated for in-space refueling, and the Department of Defense (DoD) is now showing interest in the concept8.
• Standardized Fuel Depots: Successful implementation could lead to the creation of standardized fuel depots in orbit, making space missions more affordable, efficient, and adaptable.

Starship Refueling Details:

• Depot Starship: SpaceX plans to use a Starship as a "depot" in LEO, essentially a fuel station in space.
• Tanker Launches: Multiple Starship tankers (up to 14) would launch over several weeks to fill the depot with propellant.
• Altitude: Refueling operations would occur at altitudes of 300 to 400 kilometers above Earth to minimize fuel loss.
• Fuel Transfer: Once the depot is full, the main Starship would dock and transfer the necessary fuel.
• Side-to-Side Method: SpaceX is developing a "side-to-side fueling technique" with large pipes (20 to 50 cm) to transfer over 1,000 tons of propellant in just a few hours.

DIU Interest and Applications:

• Commercial Innovation: The DIU aims to use commercial technology and innovation to enhance defense capabilities.
• Responsive Space Delivery: The DIU is seeking proposals for delivering cargo to, from, and through space, with potential applications for rapid delivery of cargo or personnel anywhere on Earth.
• Sea-Based Space Launch: The DIU is also exploring sea-based space launch technologies.

NASA Involvement:

• Cryogenic Fluid Management: NASA has a $53.2 million contract with SpaceX to explore the viability of Starship tankers for in-orbit propellant transfers.
• Lunar Missions: In-flight refueling is crucial for NASA's Artemis program, enabling lunar landings with the Human Landing System Starship. SpaceX is planning to demonstrate the feasibility of orbital resupply testing between two of its Starship spacecraft starting in March 2025