Tags: SpaceX, Reusable rocket, Fuel, Methane, Mars
Publication: GizMag.com
Publication Date: 11/26/2012

Artist’s rendition of a Dragon spacecraft using its SuperDraco thrusters to land on Mars. Image credit: SpaceX

SpaceX’s founder and CEO, Elon Musk, outlined the company’s plans for a manned mission to Mars within 15 years and the possibility of human colonization of the red planet during his lecture at the Royal Aeronautical Society in London, where we has awarded the Gold Medal, the society’s highest award.

Musk’s plan depends on developing a methane-powered rocket. Scientists have found the presence of a carbon dioxide atmosphere and ice on the planet, which, through the Sabatier reaction, would allow the possibility to manufacture methane to refuel the rockets.

Additionally, methane would help keeping the costs down, another factor on which the mission’s feasibility would rely. Methane is an inexpensive fuel compared to others and it offers good impulse; Russia has already made advances in methane-powered rockets.

SpaceX is planning on using methane fuel in its future rockets as part of the long-term planning, while still working on a reusable vertical takeoff and landing vehicle.

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