Proposed Lunar Surface Operations in Preparation for a Human Mars Mission

Abstract

Ongoing robotic exploration of Mars and several current lunar missions by the major space-faring nations as well as the recently-announced U.S. Vision for Space Exploration demonstrate that space agencies are preparing for the next step of space exploration beyond low Earth orbit, eventually taking humans back to the Moon and then to Mars. The International Space University Summer Session Program 2004, with sponsorship from the European Space Agency (ESA), National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and Optech Incorporated, empanelled an international group of 47 post-graduate students and professionals for the task of evaluating the Moon as a test bed for Mars mission development activities. This study identified key concepts, technologies and systems necessary for Mars missions that can be rehearsed in near-term lunar activities and carried out by the year 2020. Operational experience gained during Moon missions will be applicable to human Mars missions. The crew will perform maintenance, repair, and construction operations on the habitat, rovers and other equipment that are necessary to support a Mars mission. The astronauts will have to develop skills necessary to perform activities in a reduced gravity-environment, including conducting science experiments and performing extra-vehicular activities in advanced surface suits. In case of an emergency, the astronauts have to be trained to react appropriately. Experience in ground support operations for long duration missions on another planetary body will be acquired. Furthermore, it is important to rehearse planetary protection and decontamination procedures. With respect to sustainability, in–situ resource utilization is an important technology that should be tested on lunar missions. Raw materials handling, specific refinement processes, end-product handling, and use in shielding and general operations are examples for aspects of in–situ resource utilization that are similar enough on both bodies to warrant lunar rehearsal. Several psychosocial factors impacting the success of a longduration human mission to Mars can be best examined through Moon missions since they include the two crucial stressors of complete isolation and reduced gravity. Additionally, medical infrastructure and procedures that will be affected by reduced surface gravity and/or associated physiological changes have to be developed and tested. The resulting knowledge base of infrastructure, procedures and techniques are required for crewmember selection and psycho-social factors consideration as well as for training to conduct a human Mars mission. This paper presents a set of lunar missions in order to rehearse the identified enabling elements. The conclusions and recommendations of this study are presented to the space community and decision-makers as a contribution for planning lunar and Mars exploration.