Stepping Stones: Exploring a Series of Increasingly Challenging Destinations on the Way to Mars

Abstract

,The Stepping Stones plan for human space exploration is a series of increasingly challenging exploration missions to develop technologies and demonstrate new capabilities that enable subsequent missions to push farther into space and explore for longer durations. Step by step, at a sustained pace, astronauts will journey beyond Low Earth Orbit (LEO) to the Moon, then to distant asteroids, and finally to the outer moon of Mars. At each destination, astronauts will address key science objectives relating to the formation of the solar system and the origins of life. The Stepping Stones plan demonstrates the Orion MultiPurpose Crew Vehicle’s capability beyond LEO and provides opportunities to perform and perfect telerobotic surface operations from orbit, space maneuvers near small bodies, and sample return. The missions will test and improve upon existing technologies for astronaut protection and health, forging the way for the future of human space flight.