International Space Agency Central Database: Jupiter 246-B Information (Revised 7-28-2011)

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As the requirements for long term colonization of the Moon (the targeted goal of the Phoenix Lunar Return Program) require a super-heavy lift launch vehicle, the Agency has selected a variant of the DIRECT Jupiter 130 and 246 launchers, labeled as "246-B". The launcher's specifications are listed above. Designed for use with the Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle (MPCV) and the Altair Lunar Module (formerly LSAM), the 246-B is designed to allow a single launch carrying all necessary equipment for missions lasting up to two weeks on the lunar surface, and to allow for cargo delivery via unmanned launches to resupply the Neil A. Armstrong Lunar Outpost (Call sign "Sierra" or "Armstrong Base") at Shackleton Crater near the Lunar South Pole.

A collaboration between many existing Space Shuttle contractors, the vehicle's components are manufactured in various US states before delivery to Cape Canaveral for final integration. Existing 4 segment Space Shuttle Solid Rocket Boosters, produced by ATK Launch Systems, are interchangeable with those currently used to support continuing ISA space shuttle operations. Both the MPCV and first stage (a variation of a space shuttle External Fuel Tank) are produced by Lockheed Martin's Michoud facility in New Orleans. The Jupiter Upper Stage is constructed by Boeing Integrated Defense Systems. Finally, the Altair lander is constructed by the Northrop Grumman corporation in California. Current launch operations are conducted from Launch Complex 39B at the Kennedy Space Center, with pad 39A pending activation following removal of current NASA shuttle launch support systems. Pads 39C-E are not expected for use until the termination of ISA shuttle operations.

The Jupiter 246-B to date has successfully completed test flights, and has successfully launched the crew of Phoenix 2 into space for Earth orbit testing of the Orion and Altair, and has already completed a completely unmanned test flight to the Moon and back of all systems. With the exception of Phoenix 1-X, which saw the destruction of the vehicle due to a computer fault which triggered the range safety system and destroyed the unmanned launcher, the vehicle has performed well beyond expectations.

Currently scheduled to launch Phoenix 4 for a landing at Vallis Schröteri on July 4, 2012, the Jupiter 246-B is expected to be the ISA's primary launch vehicle for deep space missions to the Moon, Mars and beyond, with research currently underway to determine the feasibility of an additional third stage or nuclear thermal engines.

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Well, here it is, the first images of the vehicle used in my work to launch astronauts and cargo to the moon. It's roughly the same height as a Saturn V, and it'll be the ISA's bread and butter heavy lift rocket until SpaceX comes up with something wilder and cheaper.

Please note, I did not draw this. All credit for the artwork belongs to  cloudtrail9. Please fav the original at http://www.furaffinity.net/full/6204310/