Lunar Escape Device by starbase1
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Description
A finished render of the Lunar Escape Device - a serious NASA proposal for a backup to get Apollo astronauts off the Moon if the LEM failed during a long stay mission.
It's mainly built from bits of LEM, and had a target weight of 1% of the LEM.
A second astronaut could stand behind the pilot whose seat slides forward.
Backdrop is a photograph.
Comments (7)
doarte
A most impressive study of that world we call space... dark in reality, light in possibilities. Bravo for techniques and talent +5 from doarte's MADHOUSE
TomPeters
Its a great visualization of the design, Nick, which visually points out the desperation inherent in this option. I hate to think about trying to track the trajectory of such a vehicle, or how one would determine the final orbit after burn-out. (star sights, I assume, but , without a navigation computer, that would be tricky!) I'm really glad none of the Apollo missions needed the LED!
thecytron
Awesome render!
KnightWolverine
2 things brought me in here...This Fantastic Sci-Fi Art and you Amazing Avatar!...(smiles)...
starbase1
Tom - the box above the pilots head is a star tracker. That combined with careful timing was the way it was guided - but the bulk of the work would be done by the command module pilot.
Bambam131
Nick, I'm curious, where exactly was this little gem supposed to be mounted (hidden) in or on the lander? I had heard rumors about this way back when. Question, how was this device supposed to mount to the Lander since there is no support structure (legs) to go with it? Were the astronauts going to blast off while this device was attached to the side of the decent stage? Do you have any other information about this that you can direct me to? By the way, very nice render as I always enjoy looking at your work. Cheers, David Robinson Artist member (IAAA)
starbase1
OK, more background information! The target weight was 1% of the LEM weight. I have shown the tanks as metal, but they were intended to be inflatable, so they would store flat. The launch would be on a couple of ramps built from LEM legs - the 'pegs' on the side fit onto this. There's a wikipedia page on "Lunar Escape Systems" which includes links to the original NASA study reports. I first saw it on the "Project Rho" page on Space Suits, which I recommend highly! http://www.projectrho.com/rocket/spacesuits.php Nick