Hi, gbaikie!
Checking out the info at the astronuatix.com website, I found that
the Chinese are already hard at work
preparing the introduction of an upgraded version of its manrated
CZ-2E: The CZ-2E(A).
It was supposed to be introduces two years ago [delays are predictable], but the CZ-2E(A) will have the capability
to not only lift upto 14,100 kg into LEO [about the mass of a small spacestation module], but with a LOX/LH2 upper-stage added, it should be able to send 5,500kg to the moon.
5,500kg is about the mass of the Soviet-era, manrated Zond spacecraft that had been intended to send a cosmonaut to do a single loop around the moon and return.
I have a prediction! The Chinese
space planners will find it an irresistable temptation to send one of their "taikonauts" onboard a Chinese version of the Zond during their Olympic year: 2008.
That same year, the Chinese, hopefully will have launched their even more powerful CZ-5-5.0 which will be able to park 23,000kg in LEO, or send
10,000kg to the moon [about the mass of
a two-seater lunar-orbiting spacecraft that will have the means to arrive, park in and safely depart LLO].
Jacob
Space/Science » in reply to ...the Coming Moon Rush
The Chinese already have an upgraded booster [CZ-2E(A)] in the works.
