Launch parameters of a lunar ice payload traveling via electromagnetic mass accelerator

This paper describes a solution for procuring propellent needed for future space exploration missions based on the Lunar Electromagnetic Mass Accelerator (LEMMA) concept analyzed by McNab and McGlasson. This study examined the feasibility of using an electromagnetic launcher (EML) to transport raw materials used in pro-pellent production from the lunar south pole to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's (NASA) Lunar Gateway. The proposed Gateway space station, to be located in a lunar near-rectilinear halo orbit (NRHO), is a critical part of NASA's Artemis program. Cheaply and efficiently sourcing lunar hydrogen from surface ice to the Gateway would benefit the program's success and future exploration of the solar system. Our study of the launch requirements for a lunar EML payload are described here. AGI Inc's Systems Tool Kit (STK) was used to calculate the required launch azimuth, elevation, magnitude, epoch, and trip duration for a payload launched from the Moon to rendezvous with Gateway. The study shows that it is feasible to conduct a single launch from the lunar south pole that can intercept any point along the Gateway's orbit with variable launch conditions.

Automated summary

This paper presents a solution for obtaining propellent for future space missions by utilizing an electromagnetic launcher (EML) to transport raw materials from the lunar south pole to NASA's Lunar Gateway. The study demonstrates the feasibility of a single launch from the lunar south pole to intercept any point along the Gateway's orbit. The successful sourcing of lunar hydrogen to the Gateway would greatly benefit NASA's Artemis program and the exploration of the solar system.