orbits are viable testing and staging locations, requiring only a small velocity
change to efficiently transfer systems between a departure orbit and lunar
orbits. When combined with new operations and system refurbishment, this
finding supports architectures in which Mars transit systems can be reused,
reducing overall costs and improving sustainability. Other architecture studies
have shown that 20-30 mt Mars landers transported by SEP systems may be
sufficient to enable human Mars missions with the addition of ISRU oxygen
production for ascent propellant to leave the Martian surface.
These efforts are allowing NASA and its partners to develop an affordable,
sustainable, and flexible pioneering architecture. Work to date has helped
confirm NASA’s approach and demonstrated that there is a viable path that
can be executed within anticipated constraints. Leveraging the findings of
current and future studies and precursor missions, NASA is poised to lead
the worldwide partnership supporting an affordable journey to Mars.
Selected Critical Time Frames and Decisions
DECISIONS MADE &
IMPLEMENTATION UNDERWAY
• Extend ISS operations to at least
2024
Pursue an evolvable SLS via
Exploration Upper Stage before
advanced solid rocket boosters
Select an ARM baseline mission
to return an asteroidal boulder to
lunar orbit for subsequent crew
rendezvous
Predeploy cargo and
infrastructure through split
missions
DECISIONS FOR THE NEXT
FEW YEARS, IN WORK NOW
DECISIONS UNDER STUDY
NOW TO BE MADE IN THE
NEXT DECADE
• Develop an exploration EVA suit
for use on Orion missions
• Select initial human missions
beyond the Proving Ground
Define initial deep-space
habitation capability
Select in-space transportation
systems
Identify future Mars robotic
precursor missions beyond Mars
2020
Further define potential future
exploration missions in cislunar
space
26
Identify the role of ISRU in the
overall logistics strategy
Design Mars surface habitats
Develop Mars surface power
generation