2019 · 69 citations · 0 references
ManagementStrategySchedulingSpacecraft DesignStrategic PlanningMission DevelopmentMission PlanningMission RequirementsPlanetary ExplorationSpace ExplorationSpace StrategyExplorationExploration MissionsLandingMars DescentMars LandingMission SchedulingPlanetary Mission PlanningProgram Objectives
The mission plan to meet the President's goal involves establishing Space Station Freedom, returning to the Moon early in the next century, and then traveling to Mars, requiring a long‑range commitment and significant resources. The study modeled five reference approaches—balance and speed, earliest Mars landing, reduced Earth logistics, schedule aligned with Space Station Freedom, and reduced scale—drawing on past programs and recent research to explore diverse strategies. The assessment concludes that the Human Exploration Initiative is a feasible path to the President's goals, offering immeasurable benefits to the nation.
The basic mission sequence to achieve the President's goal is clear: begin with Space Station Freedom in the 1990's, return to the Moon to stay early in the Next century, and then journey to Mars. Five reference approaches are modeled building on past programs and recent studies to reflect wide-ranging strategies that incorporate varied program objectives, schedules, technologies, and resource availabilities. The reference approaches are (1) balance and speed; (2) the earliest possible landing on Mars; (3) reduce logistics from Earth; (4) schedule adapted to Space Station Freedom; and (5) reduced scales. The study and programmatic assessment have shown that the Human Exploration Initiative is indeed a feasible approach to achieving the President's goals. Several reasonable alternatives exist, but a long-range commitment and significant resources will be required. However, the value of the program and the benefits to the Nation are immeasurable.