a_v_bw_o_n (S61-460)
Early 1961 NASA artist’s concept of a Nova launch vehicle direct ascent lunar landing mission. I believe at this time that the lander’s method of lunar touchdown was still in flux - either in an upright position on deployable legs or horizontally, using skids on the descent/lunar landing stage.
A slightly different external variation; however, an excellent depiction of both methods:
www.alternatewars.com/SpaceRace/SP-4205/images/c063b.gif
Immensely entertaining description on the verso: "The first phase of the Lunar mission, is the launch from the surface of the earth. In the launch area, adequate protection will have to be provided against the hazards of explosion and against the tremendous noise that will be generated by the huge rocket are of high intensity but of sufficiently low energy to make shielding practicable.
During the course of the flight toward the moon, the position and velocity of the spacecraft will constantly be assessed and corrections will be made in order to bring the craft into the proper position relative to the moon. Although sensitive guidance and control equipment will be required, the spacecraft pilots will play a large part in maneuvering their craft.
It is not yet clear whether or not artificial gravity will be required in the Apollo spacecraft. Results from Project Mercury orbital flights, and from our Life Sciences programs, will settle this question."
GREAT stuff:
ia801408.us.archive.org/33/items/nasa_techdoc_19630002968...
Credit: Internet Archive website - Which has a mind-boggling collection of amazing photos, documents, videos, etc, etc - truly spectacular...especially with the NTRS no longer offering what it used to.
a_v_bw_o_n (S61-460)
Early 1961 NASA artist’s concept of a Nova launch vehicle direct ascent lunar landing mission. I believe at this time that the lander’s method of lunar touchdown was still in flux - either in an upright position on deployable legs or horizontally, using skids on the descent/lunar landing stage.
A slightly different external variation; however, an excellent depiction of both methods:
www.alternatewars.com/SpaceRace/SP-4205/images/c063b.gif
Immensely entertaining description on the verso: "The first phase of the Lunar mission, is the launch from the surface of the earth. In the launch area, adequate protection will have to be provided against the hazards of explosion and against the tremendous noise that will be generated by the huge rocket are of high intensity but of sufficiently low energy to make shielding practicable.
During the course of the flight toward the moon, the position and velocity of the spacecraft will constantly be assessed and corrections will be made in order to bring the craft into the proper position relative to the moon. Although sensitive guidance and control equipment will be required, the spacecraft pilots will play a large part in maneuvering their craft.
It is not yet clear whether or not artificial gravity will be required in the Apollo spacecraft. Results from Project Mercury orbital flights, and from our Life Sciences programs, will settle this question."
GREAT stuff:
ia801408.us.archive.org/33/items/nasa_techdoc_19630002968...
Credit: Internet Archive website - Which has a mind-boggling collection of amazing photos, documents, videos, etc, etc - truly spectacular...especially with the NTRS no longer offering what it used to.