Figure 4: Schematic of Option 1 architecture concept
A mission to carry cargo, which would be the first of two
launches, would carry a CEV-C and the necessary
propellant and engines to land on the moon and return to
Earth ahead of the manned crew flight. The second
launch would carry the CEV-H and necessary elements to
the surface, not unlike the missions Apollo 11-17. The
additional equipment sent ahead would allow for longer
duration stays. At any time the CEV-C could be launched
from the lunar surface and return to earth. The CEV-H (or
crew module in CEV-H system), likewise, could do the
same. Crew and cargo delivery and return would be
completely independent, each having its own set of
engines and propellant to perform maneuvers throughout.