A concept of space transportation and power generating system based on а solar electric propulsion orbital transfer vehicle

The paper presents results of design studies to determine configuration and key parameters of a transportation and power generation system based on a solar electric propulsion orbital transfer vehicle. It provides an analysis of advantages of using solar-powered orbital transfer vehicles when setting up efficient space transportation systems. It discusses the configuration of a 400 kW solar-powered space tug (SMB-400) and parameters of a transportation system built around it. The paper discusses different options for elements of the power and propulsion system (solar and storage batteries, electric propulsion). It provides calculation results for the transportation system parameters needed to support cargo traffic to geostationary and circumlunar orbits. The paper makes a case for using solar-powered orbital transfer vehicles to carry out commercial and near-space exploration tasks in the interests of future manned programs.