Practical Ferry-Resupply With The Titan III

Practical considerations for an efficient ferry-resupply system are emphasized in this paper. Titan III performance capabilities are briefly reviewed, and the influence orbit characteristics have on ferry-resupply rendezvous is discussed. Logistic mission sensitivity to orbit altitude and inclination parameters as they affect payload, frequency of launch opportunity and phasing requirements is evaluated. The capability of launching on time and the ability to respond rapidly to a supply mission abort or scrub was found to be a prime system prerequisite. Advantages of a mobile launch system with back-up capability are clearly established.