Revamped space vehicles...

[Frohickey]

Here (http://boeingmedia.com/images/search.cfm?product_id=1525) are a few images and descriptions of some proposed space vehicles for the new NASA impetus for lunar bases and martian missions.

Where is the Illudium Q-36 Explosive Space Modulator supposed to be? :D

[Desertrat]

Given the lower gravity of the moon, as compared to Mars, I think an old idea might have modern usage: Send unmanned "capsules" to the moon, with various tools and the equipment to do the chemistry of moon rocks to get oxygen. (And, maybe, water--or so it's been theorized.) Wer'e now capable of "soft" robotic landings on Mars; the moon shouold be less difficult.

These capsules could then be pulled together as temporary habitat modules. The next stage of activity would be digging in, for a permanent underground residency setup...Plenty of sunlight to power the equipment.

'Rat