Modular Spacecraft

Instead of a pessurized cylinder serving as the basic module for space stations, certain polyhedra are studied having the all‐space filling property, permitting the construction of pressurized volumes of cylindrical or virtually any conceivable shape. Rotatable forms for artificial gravity become an option because loads are evenly distributed through a triangle‐based grid work. This grid work may be left open, or panelled and pressurized partially or totally. The isosceles tetrahedron is an especially useful member of a class of polyhedra that may be stacked face to face in three dimensions without leaving space among the units. Since only a few simple parts must be duplicated, the approach is economical as well as flexible. Components may be shuttled into orbit in the disassembled state so that a substantial space station may be established with a single flight. Reconfiguration is possible as requirements change. Conversion to translunar or interplanetary craft is also conceivable. On arrival such craft may again be reconfigured to fulfill several roles simultaneously: orbital support craft, lander, and surface base.