Abstract: A system for launching a space for humans into orbit comprises a launch vehicles. There are multiple separate crew modules mounted in relationship to the launch vehicle. The multiple crew modules are nested around the circumference of the launch vehicle. Alternatively or additionally, there are multiple separate crew modules located in a pod relatively directed along the length of the launch vehicle. A single rocket is for launching the multiple space crew modules. The separate crew module return from orbit to Earth separately.

Abstract: A flyback booster (200) comprising an aircraft (203) housing a launch vehicle stage as a removable rocket propulsion module (502) and several space launch vehicles using variations of the flyback booster (200) are disclosed. This flyback booster (200) functions as the first stage of a multistage space launch vehicle. The stage used in the flyback booster (200) and the upper stages of the multistage space launch vehicle (213) are selected to optimize the launch cost for a specific payload.

Abstract: A space station facility having a plurality of elongated members which form a cuboctahedral-shaped structure surrounding a central pressurized command module. The space station facility may be orbited as a space station, or used as part of a larger space station. The elongated members are all of equal length, and are used to form eight tetrahedral-shaped modules or berthing spaces, and six pyramidal-shaped modules or berthing spaces. Access to berthing ports on the central command module is provided through the fourteen berthing spaces. The elongated members may be hinged at the midpoints thereof to facilitate carrying the members in the cargo bay of a space shuttle, and for deployment in space during assembly of the space station facility.