Nautilus-X: In-space Vehicle Concept For Cis-lunar And Deep Space Missions

Since the time the Apollo program was brought to an end in the late 60’s, NASA would reuse the developed technology and systems. In 2011 NASA’s Technology Applications Assessment Team have designed a new space exploration vehicle concept, Nautilus-X, which has much in common with Pilgrim Observer (a reusable, nuclear-powered deep-space craft incorporating artificial gravity). Its design includes modules, which have been already tested aboard the International Space Station, as well as inflatable modules now being developed by Bigelow Aerospace for its future space station. This space vehicle has a robotic arm, life-support systems, and solar arrays derived from ISS hardware. Unlike the Pilgrim Observer that used nuclear power, Nautilus-X will use solar-electric propulsion systems. Nautilus-X can host six astronauts and is meant for carrying out two year missions. A hydroponic garden to grow its own food on long-duration missions will be to the point. According to the Technology Application Assessment Team the Nautilus-X design relies on ready-made technology and could be developed just over five years, though currently it is only a paper study. The cost of the project will be $3.7 billion.
Via:citizensinspace.org, onorbit.com

Long-duration space journey vehicle for crew of 6 for periods of 1 -24 months
– CIS-lunar would be initial Operations Zone [shakedown phase]
– Exo-atmospheric, Space-only vehicle
– Integrated Centrifuge for Crew Health
– Life Support in deployed Large Volume with shirt-sleeve servicing
– Truss & Stringer thrust-load distribution concept
– Capable of utilizing variety of Mission-Specific
– Propulsion Units [integrated in LEO, semi-autonomously]
– Utilizes Inflatable & Deployed structures
– Incorporates Industrial Airlock for construction/maintenance
– Integrated RMS
– Supports Crewed Celestial-body Descent/Return Exploration vehicle(s)
– Utilizes Orion/Commercial vehicles for crew rotation & Earth return from LEO