module. The POTV, a two-stage, reusable, chemically fueled vehicle is used to transfer personnel from LEO to GEO and to return to LEO. The system elements described here are only a few of the total elements required for an SPS system. Figure 6 gives a somewhat broader view of the many activities that would be required for a solar power satellite program, and which have been included in the definition of the reference system. The construction of an,SPS starts with two supporting operations. First the necessary raw materials are mined and manufactured into launch-ready components and propellants. A significant mass production capability will need to be developed to produce the high number of components needed per satellite and rectenna (e.g., about 10" solar cells, 105 klystrons, 1010 dipoles). Similarly, requirements for large amounts of propellants (oxygen, hydrogen, argon) demand expanded processing capabilities. About 10 million tons of hydrocarbon propellants would be required per year. At the launch site, principal activities involve receiving, storing, and processing the large quantities of material and propellants; the launching of vehicles; and the refurbishing and checkout of returning vehicles. Incoming material (via rail, air, etc.) is off-loaded, inspected, inventoried, and stored in warehouses. Component packaging for space transportation is very significant. Packages must meet dimensional and weight constraints of the launch vehicle and have appropriate mass density to minimize space transportation costs. The silicon option reference system requires 375 HLLV flights, approximately
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