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Why not build the first interplanetry vehicle in the following manner.
First the crew module would be that of the new Apollo style modules
behind this module would a service hatch/EVA module used to dock with a space station or for vehicle repair. Behind this module would a SkyLab type module used for in flight expieriments, physical exercise storage and crew dinning facilities, this module would also serve as an emergency lifeboat if catastrophic systems failed, resulting in the need to abandon ship. Behind this module would be crew/passenger quarters. The last module would the cargo area with a mini-shuttle like bay where cargo could be easily off loaded, the cargo bay would sit underneath the the actuall bay, retractable slide panels being used for access to the cargo bay.
Behind the cargo bay module would be the fuel storage and engine assemblies. The engine assembly to be used would be a type that could give a really good intial burst of momentum and then shut to conserve fuel , but also turned back on for an added boost if needed.
If any one has 3-d software that they could render this design on, perhaps we could tweek the parameters to get what is needed.
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