posted 04-11-2004 12:16 PM            

Their proposal outlined some goals and objectives for European exploration and permanent presence on the Moon. This included:-

- lunar orbiters 2008-2011
- rovers and sample return missions 2011-2015
- manned missions start in 2018 building toward man-tended abse by 2025
- Finally conversion to fully occupied manned base

Another part of their study suggesetd that three modified Ariane-5 launches would be needed to send 3-man crew to the Moon and return safely to Earth. The elements would dock in LEO . One option suggsted was to sue a Soyuz for crew launch into LEO eliminating man-rating Ariane-5.

a single Ariane-5 can deliver 4300 kg to lunar surface.
Two launches can be used to dock a 7300kg module witha descent stage in lunar orbit for landing on the Moon. Apparently more demanding but achieves larger surface payload than if done in LEO.

To achieve a 40t base on Moon it is said would require more than 40 launches.

More detail at:-
http://www.estec.esa.nl/pr/facilities/cdf.php3