The launch vehicle would be a
new multi-stage rocket fashioned from currently existing parts. Baring resemblence
to the old Saturn V rockets these new rockets would be the basis of the new space
program. As the multi-stage rocket reaches the upper atmosphere, the upper stage
separates from the booster, fires its single hydrogen/oxygen burning engine, setting its
sights on Mars. The payload is an unmanned 45 ton Earth return vehicle. This
vehicle is designed to carry a crew of astronauts back from the surface of Mars direct to
a splashdown in Earth's waters. Consisting of a small nuclear reactor mounted on a
light truck, an automated chemical processing unit with some compressors, and a few
scientific rovers. The ERV's crew cabin contains a life support system, food, and
other necessities. The return flight will require 96 tons of propellant yet the ERV
arrives with only 6 tons of liquid hydrogen, with the rest being produced on the surface
of Mars.