Airbus studies “Moon Cruiser” concept for ESA’s cis-lunar transfer vehicle
Versatile, autonomous logistics vehicle to support future lunar missions based on heritage from Orion ESM and ATV.
Airbus has been awarded a CLTV (Cis-Lunar Transfer Vehicle) study for a Moon Cruiser by the European Space Agency (ESA). According to the study concept (two parallel Phase A/B1), the CLTV is a versatile, autonomous logistics vehicle that could, for example, provide timely and efficient support to NASA and ESA in the implementation of the future Artemis Moon missions. The spacecraft will be based on existing and proven technologies and will complement the multipurpose European Large Logistic Lander (EL3).
Bringing the World Together | Photo by NASA Every success story in science is a story about intellectual collaboration between people from multiple disciplines, ranging from diverse ethnic and geographic backgrounds. In essence, every scientific advancement is a testament to the finer human qualities of curiosity, perseverance and cooperation. I think this is a message that needs to resonate loud and clear, as we are breaking away from the nightmares of 2020 and looking forward to a better year ahead. It is in this context of unity that I would like to write about the collaborative efforts that are going on in the field of space research and exploration. This is a field that has seen a reassuring level of cooperation between countries and agencies across the world. Set aside the commercial interests involved, and you can see the unwavering human spirits trying to reach out to quite ambitious goals that uphold the long-term benefits of mankind as a whole.