LunarBooster Beta by D Henderson
http://www.aibs.org.uk/orbiter/

Required:

Soyuz7k
http://www.sourceforge.net/projects/projectganymede

Ariane5
http://ariane5.aibs.org.uk/

Ariane5 1.1 Beta Patch
http://ariane5.aibs.org.uk/A5.dll
***** overwrite modules\ariane5\a5.dll with this one *****

Baikonur
http://www.orbitmods.com/modules.php?name=Downloads&d_op=viewdownloaddetails&lid=20&ttitle=Baikonur_Launch_Complex#dldetails

Kourou
http://library.avsim.net/search.php?SearchTerm=Centre+Spatial+Guyana&CatID=Root&Go=Search

Instructions:

Launch the Proton from Baikonur (currently looking a bit like an Ariane5 -- that'll change) to minimise inclination difference with the moon. This will put the Service module into orbit, and give you a target orbit for the Booster module, launched from Kourou on an Ariane 5.

Once both the Booster and the Service module are in orbit, manoevre the Service module (using it's LIN RCS for main thrust) to intercept the Booster module. Whilst this is intercepting, launch the Soyuz, and perform the same intercept.

When the Service meets up with the booster, dock the service's rear end (docking port 0) to the booster, and dock the soyuz to the service's front (docking port 1)

The TLI burn may now be undertaken to provide a free-return path. You will need a plane change manoevre to intercept the moon en-route. You'll have to figure out when to launch to make this yourself (the default date's not bad).

*The booster and the service module both use thrust vectoring to augment RCS. There is a mass offset in the Soyuz, so you'll need to use the autopilot to hold PROGRADE whilst you burn.

*DO NOT fire the Booster by itself, the booster will fire when it's docked to the Service module and you ask for thrust from the service module. When it's fuel is exhausted, undock the Booster and continue with the service module's engines.

TransX may be used to set up your free-return orbit. This isn't too hard if you do it directly after the plane change (which in turn should be done before half-way to the moon).

I have done it, it is possible, but like all Baikonur moon shots, it's hard. Good luck!

David.
