We now discover whether we can go to the Moon routinely. Without propellant transfer, we are bound to Earth orbit.
The last OV that deposited the last TDRS satellite will remain in orbit while a Propellant Module (PM) is brought up (Image 1).
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| Image 1: The Propellant Module (PM) |
After the PM refills the OV propellant tanks, the OV will flight test the propellant docking collars. The Outpost crew will note any anomalies, such as leaks. The PM will also attempt to refill the UVs as well.
If the PM performs nominally, then we get to go to the Moon. If not, we will still have our space program, but in an abbreviated form. We will assume that everything will go smoothly.
Once all of these tests are complete, the PM may be classified as operational.
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