Sustainable Space Exploration Architecture Design: The Key To Using The Moon As A Stepping Stone
- Paper number
IAC-07-D3.1.05
- Author
Mr. Scott G. Moon, International Space University (ISU), France
- Coauthor
Mr. Gary Martin, International Space University (ISU), France
- Year
2007
- Abstract
During the last decade, the nations of the world have begun to return to the question of human exploration of the solar system. Initiatives such as the new Vision for Space Exploration (VSE) announced by United States President George Bush, or the European Space Agency’s (ESA) Aurora Programme, have detailed multiple roadmaps that can be followed to propel mankind beyond the International Space Station. Currently, the major objective of these space agencies is exploration of the Moon and return of men to the Lunar surface. However, without a focus on sustainable engineering, the possibility exists that the Moon will become the next International Space Station, a barrier beyond which manned space exploration cannot go. By keeping in mind the long term goals of these agencies’ space exploration roadmaps, and designing for sustainable space exploration architectures, the Moon will truly become a stepping stone to further destinations.\\ \newline This paper will discuss sustainable engineering in the context of four main aspects: flexibility, robustness, feasibility and extensibility. These features are discussed with respect to the budgetary, political, scientific and technological motivations that drive a space exploration program, but with a focus on the upcoming plans for Lunar exploration. Specific technologies and programs are identified that require a sustainable approach in order to be viable for long term exploration; that is, to use the Moon as a stepping stone to further exploration destinations. While current agency roadmaps advertise this goal, certain factors are identified that are required for the generation of a sustainable space exploration architecture that will attain said goal. These factors are discussed in the context of existing space projects and proposed Lunar exploration missions. Key programs identified are space transportation systems, In-Situ Resource Development (ISRU) and habitation technologies, and their supporting systems. The conclusion of this paper’s analysis is that in order to perform an effective stepping stone strategy, the Moon should be used as a technology test bed and strategy validation platform only, and that any individual mission should not exceed six months, among other recommendations that will enable a stepping stone approach.
- Abstract document