Micro Logistics: Extending Space Logistics to Planetary Surface Exploration

Paper number

IAC-08.D3.3.10

Author

Mr. Arthur Guest, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, United States

Year

2008

Abstract

Space agencies around the world are hoping to build extended stay crewed outposts on the Moon and, later, to send astronauts to the surface of Mars. The transportation and tracking of supplies, along with designing for maintainability and reliability, will be key to whether or not these campaigns are successful. It is the goal of the field of space logistics to optimize numerous factors for long-term crewed missions 
and campaigns.

The primary goal of space logistics is to develop a comprehensive supply chain management framework enabling sustainable space exploration of the Earth-Moon-Mars system and beyond. This paper optimizes the logistical situation of surface exploration architectures, termed here as ‘micro logistics’. This entails the more detailed movement of crew, supply items, and robotic assistants in and around the vicinity of the landing location(s) and outpost with the goal of maximizing the exploration that can be achieved on a planetary surface. The concept of micro logistics can be divided into four zones: the Lander Zone, the Lander/Outpost Interface, the Outpost Zone, and the Exploration Zone. Analysis in each of these zones focuses on optimizing the related logistical activities including the transportation, tracking, storage, and retrieval of supplies as well as any maintenance required. 

This paper details how the exploration capabilities of a campaign can be increased via micro logistic management. These methods include reducing the time required for non-exploration activities, simplifying or reducing the exploration tasks done by the crew, and increasing the exploration range for the campaign.  

The main concept is that synergistic use of robotic assistants could allow crew time to be spent on tasks that will provide the most return for science and exploration. Robotic assistants can be utilized in various operations. They can be used to reduce the amount of time astronauts spend on logistics activities such as transportation of supplies. Robots can also be used to either support or replace astronauts for certain exploration activities such as site surveys or initial scientific investigations. Trade offs must be conducted to determine if the benefits of robotic assistants outweigh the extra mass, maintenance time, and complexity they introduce. 

Other concepts discussed focus on reducing the logistical overhead for a mission. These include the use of inventory management technology such as RFID-enabled containers as well as designing for commonality to simplify maintenance requirements.

Abstract document

IAC-08.D3.3.10.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-08.D3.3.10.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.