In terms of mass delivery capability for high-energy orbits, how does $M_{RTLS}$ compare to $M_{exp}$?
Answer
$M_{RTLS}$ is less than $M_{exp}$.
Attempting an RTLS landing necessitates significant deceleration maneuvers earlier in the flight, forcing a reduction in the mass that can be delivered to the target orbit compared to an expendable mission ($M_{RTLS} < M_{exp}$).
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