Callisto Base Module Transport An Orion’s Arm Future History Image Mars terraforming program resource missions at Callisto will extend over the duration of the terraforming project, a time span of approximately 500 years. The initial stage involves sending crewed vehicles, drill-rig platforms, and material support cargo craft – the manned components serving as surface habitats for the duration of each mission. Eventually the need to expand surface operations will necessitate the establishment of a permanent base facility with workshops and light manufacturing capabilities. Initial base construction begins with the shipment of living & work modules. The modules are transported 3 at a time on an un-crewed vehicle -- a scaled down version of the Callisto crew vehicle interplanetary Orion stage. Vehicle diagram to follow. The modules are mounted on a specialized transport rig, each one locked to its own independent shock-absorbing platform and support structure. The transport rig contains an RTG power source to power heating and cooling systems required to maintain thermal integrity of the modules during transport. Each Module is 65 feet tall and 48 feet in diameter and masses approximately 326 metric tons. Callisto Base modules are not inflatable Bigelow style transhabs. These are hard shelled and arrive fully outfitted with internal life-support, plumbing, and electrical systems. Post touchdown landing engines, terminal descent hover and fine control and OMS/RCS jets will be dismounted. Each module has a retractable surface access elevator and airlock which can serve that function, or be mated to connective corridors linking the module to others to form the surface base. Landing fuel tanks when removed leave space for an EVA prep area or working space, descent engine compartments are pre-rigged for a later installation of heavy equipment elevator lifts. All models are my own Bryce creations, constructed in Bryce 6.3 and rendered in Bryce 7 Pro. Jupiter background image courtesy of NASA/JPL. As always thank you for your interest, thoughtful comments, and encouragement.