Beyond the Shuttle
With the shuttle due to be retired in 2010, the biggest question in spaceflight today is what is to replace it? Many studies have been done over the years - even before the shuttle had flown, studies were done to see what else could be done with shuttle based technology, the most well-known being Shuttle-C, where the Orbiter would be replaced with an unmanned cargo carrier. The current candidates are all shuttle technology based, using a mix of SRB's, External tanks and SSME's in various configurations, to split the roles of cargo carrier and manned vehicle.

The CEV
The three major aerospace manufacturers have all submitted designs for the CEV (Crew Exploration Vehicle). The current favourite bears a resemblance to an Apollo style capsule, though it could accomodate up to six astronauts. It would also have and Apollo style escape rocket to provide abort options. This capsule ride on top of an SRB, with a liquid-fuelled upper stage for the final insertion into orbit, which could be powered by either SSME's or modified J2's, which previously powered the Saturn V 2nd and 3rd stages. The SRB first stage has been chosen because it is regarded as being inherently safer than a liquid-fuelled system, although once it's lit, it's impossible to turn it off. The SRB itself could be enlarged from 4 to 5 segments for more thrust and longer burn time.

Above: The CEV launched by SRB
Below: A shuttle-derived booster launch.
More Images....
The Cargo Lifter
Current designs utilise the external tank and solid rocket boosters, together with some form of payload system. This could be either side mounted as in Shuttle-C, or inline, i.e. mounted on top of the external tank. Engines would either be mounted on the cargo pod, or on the bottom of the external tank. Various configurations are being considered with a variety of engine configurations. The booster would also feature a liquid fuelled upper stage to propel the payload into orbit.

Update: NASA Announces Ares I and Ares V
The final designs of the new boosters have now been decided. For the CEV, a 5-segment SRB will provide the first stage, with a liquid oxygen/hydrogen second stage powered by a modified Saturn V era J2 engine. This booster is called Ares I. The cargo lifter, Ares V, now features a cluster of 5 RS-68 engines, mounted to a tank slightly wider than the shuttle external tank. Attached to this will be 2 5 segment SRB's. The second stage is now also powered by the J2-X engine.

Ares: NASA's new rockets get names.

Gallery of Images

For more information see the following sites:

Alliant Technologies - SafeSimplesoon.com
Spaceref.com
Nasa's Moonship takes shape - MSNBC.com

 HLLV Liftoff
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