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This topic is inspired by an observation of SpaceNut in another topic.
SpaceNut commented upon the need for a number of traditional space ships to deliver supplies for an expedition to Mars.
Most supplies do NOT need an atmosphere shell for shipment in space.
This topic is offered for NewMars members who might wish to provide links, images or text about design and use of simple structures to hold a variety of containers of non-perishable goods to be shipped slowly between Solar locations.
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This post is reserved for an index to posts that may be contributed by NewMars members.
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Post #3: Opening vision for this topic.
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This topic is about the use of non-pressurized barges for shipment of non-perishable goods in space.
In another topic, SpaceNut introduced the idea of how to ship goods in space with fewer spacecraft designed for atmosphere travel.
Space barges would seem an attractive alternative for a great variety of goods that do not need special treatment in vacuum.
Space barges need space tugs, and GW Johnson has already described a variety of space tugs.
Carbon free propulsion is certainly an option for space tugs, although I suspect that the many advantages of carbon fuels for space applications will insure their use for some time to come.
This is a separate topic for space barges and the tugs to push them.
A space barge needs a minimal electronic broadcasting service to report it's location as it travels. It might be fitted with modest propulsion capability depending upon the mission. Goods that require special containers would be shipped inside suitable containers.
Barges need to be loaded so that mass is distributed evenly, so that space tugs can deliver the needed impulses at launch and arrival.
Barges might also be employed to collect mined materials from asteroids. In that case, containers of mined materials would be secured to the barge structure with cords or tarps and cords.
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