KerbalX

Built in the VAB in KSP version 1.7.0- Squad (stock). Root part is mk1-3pod.

Replica of:

Orion CEV (Constellation program), first design draft; Ares I

Description

The Lehu SiX-S is the prototype of Lehu space capsule from JS Hangtian. Designed as a cheapway to send 4 kerbals into Orbit for deep space operation, it is launched on Fogin RX1, which just require one single cheap SRB as first stage to keep the cost low. (and lots of seperatrons to give it a push)

In order to make the system more unified, it utilizes monoprop engines, which aside from providing better altitude control, also eliminate the need to carry dangerous liquid fuel. The S-series also does not require additional payments outside of the original purchasing contract.

Flight profile:

• Let the SRB fly straight up
• Fly until 100m/s is hit, then begin yaw to east (90 degree)
• When SRBs are spent, discard and continue with second stage, until AP hit ~80k
• Circularize as needed

Real life notes

Before the Orion MPCV comes about, there are many alternate designs and prototypes for its predecessor, the Crew Exploration Vehicle. One of the key changes when compare to Apollo is the elimination of fuel cell and its associated hardware (namely, LH2), citing these two to be malfunction-prone. Instead, the service module engine is based on that of Shuttle OMS, and utilized a unified architecture with the craft’s main engine and Reaction Control System thrusters fed from the same hypergolic propellant tanks, which allow the RCS thrusters to act as backup main engine. At this stage, the Orion is a pure American project.

This is thus reflected in this No-DLC model, which is based on that of CEV instead of MPCV.

Of course, this Orion version is ultimately designed as a proof-of-concept, as a showcase of possibility to put an Orion clone using one SRB first stage, rather then being useful.

There are a few design variation of Orion CEV and MPCV. Based on typical observation, CEV, designed purely by NASA, tend to use a pair of circular fold solar panel, while MPCV utilized the ATV-based service module built by ESA, and thus have quad linear fold solar panels. Otherwise, it retained many of the original requirement, namely the elimination of fuel cell and its associated hardware (namely, LH2), and is based on that of Shuttle OMS. There is even a proposal to use methane, such that it can be refueled through IRSU during trip to Mars.

Details

• Type: VAB
• Class: ship
• Part Count: 65
• Pure Stock

In-Orbit details:

• Part count: 19
• Orbit established Delta-V: ~680 m/s on 100k x 100k
• Crew capacity: 4