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International Space Exploration

Coordination Group

The GlobalExplorationRoadmap

September 2011

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The GlobalExplorationRoadmap

Human and robotic exploration o the Moon, asteroids, and Mars wi ll

strengthen and enrich humanitys uture, bringing nations together in a

common cause, revealing new knowledge, inspiring people, and stimulating

technical and commercial innovation. As more nations undertake space

exploration activities, they see the importance o partnering to achieve their

objectives. Building on the hi storic ight o Yuri Gagarin on April 12, 1961,

the frst 50 years o human spaceight have resulted i n strong partnerships

that have brought discoveries, innovations, and inspiration to all mankind.

Discoveries we have made together have opened our eyes to the benefts

o continuing to expand our reach.

The surace o the Earth is the shore o the cosmic ocean.

From it we have learned most o what we know.

Recently, we have waded a little out to sea, enough to dampen

our toes or, at most, wet our ankles.

The water seems inviting. The ocean calls.

Dr. Carl Sagan

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What is the

Global Exploration

Roadmap?

uilding on the vision or coordinated human and

obotic exploration o our solar system established in

he Global Exploration Strategy: the Framework for

oordination, released in May 2007, space agencies

articipating in the International Space Exploration

oordination Group (ISECG) are developing the

lobal Exploration Roadmap. The Global Exploration

oadmap reects the international eort to defne

easible and sustainable exploration pathways to the

Moon, near-Earth asteroids, and Mars. Beginning with

he International Space Station (ISS), this frst iteration

the roadmap examines possible pathways in the

ext 25 years.

gencies agree that human space exploration will

e most successul as an international endeavor

ecause there are many challenges to preparing or

hese missions and because o the signifcant social,

tellectual, and economic benefts to people on Earth.

his frst version o the Global Exploration Roadmap

epresents a step in the international human space

xploration roadmapping activity that allows agencies

o be better inormed as they prepare to play a part in

he global eort. It will be updated over time to reect

volving global consensus on exploration destinations

nd associated architectures.

y sharing early results o this work with the broader

ommunity, space agencies hope to generate

novative ideas and solutions or meeting the

hallenges ahead.

Daybreak over Gale Crater, Mars (Gale Crater was recen

as the destination or the Mars Science

Table o Contents

Executive Summary

Chapter 1. Introduction

Chapter 2. Common Goals and Objectives o Space Exploration

Chapter 3. Mapping the Journey: Long-Range Human Exploration Strategy

Chapter 4. Human Exploration Preparatory Activities

Chapter 5. Conclusion

Canada Germany

Russia

United States

United Kingdom

Ukraine

IndiaEuropean Space Agency

ItalyFrance

Japan South Korea

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The Global Exploration Strategy: the Framework for

Coordination, released in May 2007 by 14 space agenc

presents a vision or globally coordinated human and rspace exploration ocused on solar system destination

where humans may someday live and work. It calls or

sustainable human exploration o the Moon, near-Earth

asteroids, and Mars. Although Mars is unquestionably

most intriguing destination or human missions current

within our grasp, and a human mission to Mars has be

the driving long-term goal or the development o the G

Exploration Roadmap, there is much work to be done b

the risks associated with such missions can be reduce

acceptable level and the required technologies are mat

to enable a sustainable approach.

The Global Exploration Roadmap urther advances the

strategy by creating a ramework or interagency discu

This ramework has three elements: (1) common goals

objectives, (2) long-range human exploration scenarios

(3) coordination o exploration preparatory activities. Bunderstanding the elements common to their explorati

goals and objectives, and by collaborating to examine

potential long-range exploration scenarios, agencies s

to inorm near-term decisions aecting their exploratio

preparatory activities.

Executiv

Summa

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Common Goals and Objectives

he Global Exploration Roadmap is driven by a set of goals and supporting objectives that reect commonality while

specting each individual agencys goals and objectives. They demonstrate the rich potential for exploration of each

the target destinations, delivering benets to all nations. The denitions of the goals and objectives listed below are

e result of an iterative process and will reect ongoing renements as agency priorities evolve.

Human Space Exploration Scenarios:Optional Pathways in a Common Strategy

The common human exploration strategy begins with the ISS as the rst important step toward Mars and human

expansion into space. It recognizes that human missions to both asteroids and the Moon are also important destinatio

that contribute to preparing for a future human mission to Mars.

This rst iteration of the roadmap identies two feasible

pathways for human missions after ISS: (1) Asteroid Next

and (2) Moon Next. They differ primarily with regard to

the sequence of sending humans to the Moon and aster-

oids, and each reects a stepwise development and

demonstration of the capabilities ultimately required

for human exploration of Mars. Each pathway is elabo-

rated by development of a representative mission sce-

nario a logical sequence o f missions over a 25-yearhorizon which is considered technically feasible and

programmatically implementable.

For each mission scenario, a conceptual architecture was

considered that included design reference missions and

notional element capabilities. Design reference missions

are generally destination focused, yet they comprise capa-

bilities that are reused or evolved from capabilities used at

other destinations.

To guide mission scenario development, agencies

reached consensus on principles that reect comm

drivers. The six principles are listed below:

1. Capability Driven Framework: Follow a phase

wise approach to multiple destinations.

2. Exploration Value: Generate public benets an

exploration objectives.

3. International Partnerships: Provide early and s

opportunities for diverse partnerships.

4. Robustness: Provide for resilience to technica

grammatic challenges.

5. Affordability: Take into account budget constr

6. Human-Robotic Partnership: Maximize syner

between human and robotic missions.

Search for LifeDetermine i lie is or was present outside o Earth and understand the

environments that support or supported it.

Extend Human PresenceExplore a variety o destinations beyond low-Earth orbit with a ocus on

continually increasing the number o individuals that can be supported at

these destinations, the duration o time that individuals can remain at these

destinations, and the level o sel-suciency.

Develop Exploration Technologies and CapabilitiesDevelop the knowledge, capabilities, and inrastructure required to live and

work at destinations beyond low-Earth orbit through development and testing

o advanced technologies, reliable systems, and ecient operations concepts

in an o-Earth environment.

Perform Science to Support Human ExplorationReduce the risks and increase the productivity o uture missions in our solar

system by characterizing the eect o the space environment on human health

and exploration systems.

Stimulate Economic ExpansionSupport or encourage provision o technology, systems, hardware, and services

rom commercial entities and create new markets based on space activities that

will return economic, technological, and quality-o-lie benets to all humankind.

Perform Space, Earth, and Applied ScienceEngage in science investigations o, and rom, solar system destinations

and conduct applied research in the unique environment at solar system

destinations.

Engage the Public in ExplorationProvide opportunities or the public to engage interactively in space exploration.

Enhance Earth SafetyEnhance the saety o planet Earth by ollowing collaborative pursuit o planetary

deense and orbital debris management mechanisms.

Optional Pathways in a Common Strategy

Mars: Ultimate

Goal for All

Scenarios

LEO

and

ISS

Deep Space Habitat atEarth-Moon Lagrange Point

1

Near-Term Focus on Guiding Capabilities,Technologies, and Leveraging ISS

Long-Term Focus is Discovery Drivenand Enhanced by Emerging Technologie

Executive Su

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Mission Scenario: Asteroid Next

Opportunities for Commercial or International Platforms

Robotic Exploration

Robotic Exploration

ISS Utilization and Capability Demonstration

Mission and Destinations

Key Enabling Capabilities

011 2020 2028 2033

Low-Earth Orbit

Opportunities for Commercial or International Cis-Lunar MissionsCis-Lunar

Near-Earth Asteroid (NEAs)

Cis-Lunar Servicing and Deployment Deep Space Exploration

ISS Operations Step 1

Step 2

Crewed Visits to DSH

First Human Missionto an NEA

Precursor toFirst NEA

Exploration TestModule

Precursor toSecond NEA

Second Human Missionto an NEA

Future Human Mission

CommercialCrew

Commercial Cargo

Next GenSpacecraft

NGSLV

MPCV

SLS/HeavyLaunchVehicle

CryogenicPropulsionStage

Deep SpaceHabitat (DSH)

Space ExplorationVehicle

Advanced In-spacePropulsion

Crewed Visits to DSHIncreasing Duration

Crewed Flights toExploration Test Module

Moon

Robotic Exploration

Robotic Exploration

Future Human MissionMars

Robotic Exploration

Servicing andSupport Systems

S am pl e R et urn O pp ort un it y S am pl e Re tu rn Op por tu ni ty

Mission Scenario: Moon Next


Robotic Exploration

Robotic Exploration




2011 2020 2030 2034

Low-Earth Orbit

Opportunities for Commercial or International

Cis-Lunar Missions

Opportunities for Com

or International Luna

Cis-Lunar

Near-Earth Asteroids (NEAs)

Lunar Exploration Deep Space Ex


Step 2


Future Hu

Commercial Cargo MPCV

Communication Assets

Lander Descent Stage

Lander Ascent StageDeep Sp

Habi

Lunar SurfaceElements

1-Metric TonCargo Lander

Spac


Moon

Robotic Exploration

Small-Scale, Human-Scale, Human-Enabled

NGSLV

S amp le R et ur n Op po rt un it y S am pl e R et ur n O ppo rt un it y

Crewed V

Hum

t

Robotic Exploration

Mars

Robotic Exploration

Servicing andSupport Systems Cryogenic

PropulsionStage



CommercialCrew

Next GenSpacecraft

wo notional mission scenarios have been dened to guide the exploration planning activity. The mission scenarios enable

llaborative work in dening the missions and capabilities needed to realize the goals and objectives guiding exploration

each destination.

Executive SuExecutive Su

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Analogue Activities

Testing in a relevant environment allows renement of

system designs and mission concepts, helping prepare for

exploration beyond low-Earth orbit. Terrestrial analogue

activities also provide an important opportunity for pub-

lic engagement in a setting that brings together students,

astronauts, scientists, and engineers.

Conclusion

This rst iteration of the Global Exploration Roadmap

shows that agencies have begun collaboratively working

on long-range exploration mission scenarios. Two suchnotional scenarios have been elaborated and will further

guide international discussion. The roadmap shows that

agencies are looking for near-term opportunities to coor-

dinate and cooperate that represent concrete steps toward

enabling the future of human space exploration across the

solar system.

The following key observations are made to assist in

this effort:

1. Recognize that interdependency is essential and take

steps to successfully implement it.

2. Realize additional opportunities for using the ISS.

3. Increase opportunities for enhancing the human-robotic

science partnership.

4. Pursue opportunities for leveraging investments that

advance critical exploration technologies.

The current global economic climate creates a challenge in

planning for space exploration. Yet, it is important to start

planning now. First, collaborative work on exploration mis-

sion scenarios will allow us to inform decisions made today

regarding activities such as exploration technologies and useof the ISS. Second, the retirement of the U.S. Space Shuttle

and the completion of the ISS assembly make available criti -

cal skills in a high-performing aerospace workforce. Focus-

ing this global workforce will enable a smooth transition

to the next destination beyond low-Earth orbit for human

spaceight.

Human ExplorationPreparatory Activities

cross the globe, engineers and scientists are working on

any of the essential preparatory activities necessary to

tend human presence into space and explore the planet

ars. By developing a common roadmap, agencies hope to

ordinate their preparatory investments in ways that maxi-

ize return on investments and enable earlier realization of

eir goals and objectives.

gnicant activities are underway in the following

eas, each presenting opportunities for coordination

d cooperation.

se of the ISS for Exploration

he recent decision by ISS partners to extend the life ofe ISS until at least 2020 ensures that ISS can be effec-

vely used to prepare for exploration, both by ISS partner

encies as well as through new partnerships with nations

ho are preparing exploration roles for themselves.

obotic Missions

obotic missions have always served as the precursors to

man exploration missions. Precursor robotic missions are

sential to ensure human health, safety, and the success

human missions and ensure maximum return on the

vestments required for subsequent human exploration.

dvanced Technology Development

o one agency can invest robustly in all the needed technol-

y areas that represent key challenges for executing human

issions beyond low-Earth orbit. Appropriately leveraging

obal investments in technology development and demon-

ation is expected to accelerate the availability of critical

pabilities needed for human exploration missions.

evelopment of New Space Systems and Infrastructure

uman exploration beyond low-Earth orbit will require a

w generation of capabilities and systems, incorporatingchnologies still to be discovered. They will be derived

om and build on experience from existing competencies

d lessons learned.

ChapterIntroductio

The Global Exploration Strategy: the Framework or

Coordination, released in May 2007 by 14 space agenc

presented a vision or globally coordinated human androbotic space exploration ocused on solar system

destinations where humans may someday live and wo

In this vision, human exploration o the Moon, near-Ear

asteroids, and Mars is preceded by robotic explorers t

reveal many o their secrets, characterize their environ

and identiy risks and potential resources. Human expl

ollows in a manner that is sustainable and allows agen

to meet their goals and objectives.

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rom Research to Exploration to Utilization

chieving the vision of sustainable human space explo-

tion, including human missions to Mars, requires polit-

al support and resources over an extended period of

me. It will also require the level of international com-

itment that has maintained the ISS partnership over the

st 25 years. The success of the ISS Program, one of the

ost advanced international engineering achievements

date, demonstrates what is possible when space-faring

tions collaborate and pursue a shared strategy.

he need to make human spaceight more affordable will

ive changes in the way we develop and operate explora -

on systems. Innovations in research and technology are

sential. Solutions to the challenges of safe and sustain -

le human spaceight also improve life on Earth, and as

e tackle the challenges of sending humans further and

ster into space, our investment will result in additional

novations beneting life on Earth.

xploration of space initiated more than 50 years ago has

abled successful commercial activities in Earth orbit

ainly in communication, navigation, and Earth observa-

on satellites. In recent years, companies have started to

vest in providing commercial space exploration services

response to government demands or simply to offer a

w service to the public.

tilization of low-Earth orbit for human exploration

nce the strategic domain of the fewwill soon be avail -

le to many on Earth through a multitude of international

mmercial service providers. This is important because

e extension of human presence beyond Earth orbit

pends on successful commercial access for humans

low-Earth orbit.

he Global Exploration Roadmap strategy recognizes

at sustainable exploration must actively enable creation

new markets and commerce, once governments have

d the way. Just as we have established Earth orbit as an

mportant economic sphere, so will we eventually strive

do the same at future exploration destinations.

Human exploration of the surface of Mars is our driving

long-term goal and denes the most complex challenges

that must be overcome. The pathway to Mars begins with

the ISS, an important step toward human expansion into

space. It includes exploring the Moon and some near-

Earth asteroids, demonstrating innovative technologies,

mastering capabilities, revealing new knowledge, stimu-

lating economic growth and inspiring future engineers

and scientists. Decisions regarding destination sequenc-

ing will not be made by ISECG but will follow national

policy decisions and international consultation at multiple

levels informed by ISECGs work to collaboratively

advance exploration architectures and mission designs.

Past studies of many agencies conclude that the Moon is

the most suitable next step. Just 3 days from Earth, the

Moon is seen as an ideal location to prepare people for

learning how to live and work on other planetary surfaces.

As a repository of 4-billion years of solar system history,

it is also of interest to the science community. Alterna-

tively, pursuing the Asteroid Next pathway aggressively

drives advancements in deep space exploration technolo-

gies and capabilities such as advanced propulsion or habi-

tation systems. As relics of the solar system formation,

near-Earth asteroids are worthy of further study and take

a major step toward readiness for Mars missions.

The current global economic climate creates a challenge in

planning for space exploration. Yet, it is important to start

planning now for several reasons. First, collaborative work

on exploration mission scenarios will allow us to inform

decisions made today regarding exploration technologies

and ISS activities. Second, the retirement of the U.S. Space

Shuttle and the completion of ISS assembly make available

critical skills in a high-performing aerospace workforce.

By collaboratively working on technically feasible and

programmatically implementable long-range scenarios

and looking for near-term opportunities to coordinate and

cooperate, we take concrete steps toward enabling the

future of human space exploration across the solar system.

Chapter Common Goa

and Objectives Space Exploratio

Why shall we explore space? Development o a Global

Exploration Roadmap should be based on a clear

understanding o the outcomes expected by participatagencies. It is important that mission scenarios reect

what space agencies want to accomplish, as articulate

by specifc goals and supporting objectives o space

exploration.

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Key Supporting Objectives

0

Chapter 2. Common Goals and Objectives of Space Exp

he Global Exploration Roadmap is driven by a set of

mmon space exploration goals and supporting objec-

ves dened collectively by participating space agencies.

ome goals and objectives apply uniformly to all destina -

ons in the Global Exploration Roadmap while others do

ot. For example, the Search for Life goal is central to

e exploration of Mars but not a driver for the explora-

on of the Moon. The formulation of goals and objectivesan iterative process that must reect ongoing renement

agency priorities evolve.

he common goals are described below, and the supporting

bjectives are listed in the table that follows:

SearchforLife.Determine if life is or was present

outside of Earth and understand the environments that

support or supported it. The search for life is a central

goal of space exploration. Pursuing this goal con -

tinues the cultural quest of humankind to determine

whether we are alone in the universe and answers

deeply rooted questions about our origin and evolu-

tion. The question of whether life exists beyond Earth

has great philosophical and scientic signicance.

ExtendHumanPresence. Explore a variety of des-

tinations beyond low-Earth orbit with a focus on con -

tinually increasing the number of individuals that can

be supported at these destinations, the duration of time

that individuals can remain at these destinations, and

the level of self-sufciency. Extending and sustain-

ing human presence beyond low-Earth orbit is another

central goal of space exploration. This enables human-

kind to live and work in space, to harness solar system

resources for use in space and on Earth, and eventually

to settle on other planets. Pursuing this goal expands

the frontiers of humanity, opens doors to future utiliza-

tion of space, and reshapes how we think of ourselves

and our place in the universe.

DevelopExplorationTechnologiesandCapabilities.

Develop the knowledge, capabilities, and infrastruc-

ture required to live and work at destinations beyond

low-Earth orbit through development and testing of

advanced technologies, reliable systems, and efcient

operations concepts in an off-Earth environment. This

goal establishes the fundamental capabilities to extend

and sustain space exploration beyond low-Earth orbit.Pursuing this goal also yields spinoff products, new

materials and manufacturing processes, and various

technologies that can address major global challenges.

PerformSciencetoSupportHumanExploration.

Reduce the risks and increase the productivity of

future missions in our solar system by characterizing

the effect of the space environment on human health

and exploration systems. This is essential for human

exploration and will enable a human presence across

the solar system. Pursuing this goal also yields innova -

tion for Earth-based health care.

StimulateEconomicExpansion. Support or encour-

age provision of technology, systems, hardware, and

services from commercial entities and create new

markets based on space activities that will return eco -

nomic, technological, and quality-of-life benets to all

humankind. Pursuing this goal generates new indus-

tries, spurs innovation in elds such as robotics and

energy systems, and creates high-technology employ-

ment opportunities. As space activities evolve fromgovernment research to exploration to utilization, new

economic possibilities may extend beyond low-Earth

orbit to the Moon and elsewhere in the solar system.

Duck Bay at Victoria Crater, Mars.

Goal Objective

Search or Lie Find evidence o past or present lie.

Explore the past or present potential o solar system destinations to sustain lie.

Extend Human Presence Explore new destinations.

Increase opportunities or astronauts rom all partner countries to engage in explor

Increase the sel-suciency o humans in space.

Develop Exploration Technologies and Capabilities Test countermeasures and techniques to maintain crew health and perormance, a

radiation mitigation technologies and strategies.

Demonstrate and test power generation and storage systems.

Develop and test high-perormance mobility, extravehicular activity, lie support, an

habitation capabilities.

Demonstrate the use o robots to explore autonomously and to supplement astrona

exploration activities.

Develop and validate tools, technologies, and systems that extract, process, and ut

resources to enable exploration missions.

Demonstrate launch and advanced in-space propulsion capabilities.

Develop thermal management systems, including cryogenic fuid management cap

Learn how to best perorm basic working tasks and develop protocols or operatio

Test and demonstrate advanced entry-decent-landing technologies.

Test automated rendezvous and docking, on-orbit assembly, and satellite servicing

capabilities.

Develop and demonstrate technologies to support scientic investigation.

Develop space communications and navigation capabilities.

PerformSpace,Earth,andAppliedScience. Engage

in science investigations of, and from, solar system

destinations, and conduct applied research in the

unique environment at solar system destinations.

Pursuing this goal delivers valuable knowledge to

society and deepens understanding of our home planet.

EngagethePublicinExploration. Provide oppor-

tunities for the public to engage interactively in space

exploration. Space agencies have a responsibility

to return value directly to the public that supports

them by disseminating knowledge and sharing in the

excitement of discovery. A participatory approach to

exploration helps provide this value and maxim

opportunities to leverage public contributions

exploration missions. Pursuing this goal also c

opportunities to educate and inspire citizens, p

larly young people, and to contribute to the cu

development of communities.

EnhanceEarthSafety. Enhance the safety of

Earth by following collaborative pursuit of pla

defense and orbital debris management mecha

Pursuing this goal lowers the risk of unforesee

catastrophic asteroid collisions, as well as dam

current space assets in Earth orbit.

(con

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Chapter Mapping the Journe

Long-Range HumaExploration Strateg

Space agencies participating in ISECG have defned a

range human exploration strategy that begins with the

and expands human presence throughout the solar sysleading to human missions to explore the surace o M

Unquestionably, sending humans to Mars in a manner

that is sustainable over time will be the most challengi

and rewarding objective o human space exploration in

the oreseeable uture. These missions will require new

technologies and signifcant advances in the capabiliti

systems, and inrastructure we have today.

Mars Mission Major Challenges:

Radiationprotectionandmeasurementtechnique

Subsystemreliabilityandin-spacerepaircapabilit

Entry,descent,andlandingoflargepayloads

Utilizationoflocalresources,suchasoxygen,wat

and methane

Advancedin-spacepropulsion

Long-termstorageandmanagementofcryogenic

(H2, O

2, CH

4, Xe)

Surfacemobility,includingroutineextravehiculara

capability

Transorming this strategy into a roadmap involves

identifcation o easible pathways and the defnition o

mission scenarios that build upon capabilities we have

drive technology development, and enable scientifc re

ey Supporting Objectives (continued)

NASA astronaut Ken Ham (let) and JAXA astronaut Soichi Noguchi (right)

are pictured on the orward fight deck o Space Shuttle Atlantis while

docked with the ISS.

SA astronauts Nicole Stott (let) and Cady Coleman (right) pose or

hoto in the Cupola o the IS S.

2

oal Objective

erorm Science to Support Human Exploration Evaluate human health in the space environment.

Monitor and predict radiation in the space environment.

Characterize the geology, topography, and conditions at destinations.

Characterize available resources at destinations.

Evaluate the impacts o the surace, near-surace, and atmospheric environment on

exploration systems.

timulate Economic Expansion Provide opportunities or the integration o commercial transportation elements into the

exploration architecture.

Provide opportunities or the integration o commercial surace and orbital elements into

the exploration architecture.

Evaluate potential or commercial goods and services at destinations, including markets

or discovered resources.

erorm Space, Earth, and Applied Science Perorm Earth observation, heliophysics, and astrophysics rom space.

Gather scientic knowledge o destinations.Gather scientic knowledge o solar system evolution.

Perorm applied research.

ngage the Public in Exploration Use interactive hands-on communications tools to provide virtual experiences using real

and live exploration data.

Enlist amateur/citizen scientists to contribute to exploration-related knowledge collection.

nh an ce E ar th Sa et y C har act er iz e p ote nti al n ear- Ear th a ste roi d c ol lis ion th re at s.

Test techniques to mitigate the risk o asteroid collisions with Earth.

Manage orbital debris around the Earth.

any agencies are still developing their objectives

d will be for some time to come, so the initial set is

pected to evolve as national objectives do, and as dis-

ssions on commonality proceed. It will be important

establish an exploration strategy that allows the sus-

inment and growth of each agencys aspirations for

uman spaceight. An early dialog that builds an under-

anding of agency goals and objectives will contribute

to the denition of a shared strategy and enable each

agency to communicate their reasons for being part

of the international effort.

As space agencies continue to rene their goals and

objectives, they will share them, look for commonal-

ity, and ensure that the Global Exploration Roadmap

reects that commonality.

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Feasible pathways consider exploration benets and bal -

ance risk, cost, and overall technology readiness. Studies

performed by individual agencies and within ISECG

Other pathways, such as one that sets

humans on the surface of Mars as the next

step, were evaluated based on work done

within ISECG or by participating agencies.

Typically, they were not considered fea-

sible because of risk, cost, and technology

readiness concerns or they did not sustain a

cadence of missions considered essential to

deliver value to stakeholders.

rom Strategy to Roadmap:xploration Pathways

s an important step toward human expansion into space,

e ISS will allow agencies to perform research, technol-

gy demonstrations, and other activities on board this

ternational laboratory. In addition, the ISS plays a key

le in securing the economic viability of human explo-

tion of low-Earth orbit by aggressively courting new

search communities, addressing global challenges, sim-

ifying operations concepts, and increasing the cost ef -

ency and quality of cargo and crew logistic services.

his rst iteration of the roadmap identies two feasible

thways for human missions after ISS: (1) Asteroid Next

d (2) Moon Next. They differ primarily with regard to

e sequence of sending humans to the Moon and aster-

ds, and each reects a stepwise development and demon-

ration of the capabilities ultimately required for human

ploration of Mars. Each pathway is elaborated by devel -

ment of a representative mission scenario a logical

quence of missions over a 25-year horizon which

considered technically feasible and programmatically

mplementable.

Optional Pathways in a Common Strategy

Mars: Ultimate

Goal for All

Scenarios

LEO

and

ISS

Deep Space Habitat at

Earth-Moon Lagrange Point1

Near-Term Focus on Guiding Capabilities,Technologies, and Leveraging ISS

Long-Term Focus is Discovery Drivenand Enhanced by Emerging Technologies

Humans interacting with a near-Earth asteroid, learning about the promise

and risks o these primordial bodies.

Mars Moon Near-Earth AsteroidLaGrange Points/Ci

Space

KeyObjectives

Search or lie.

Advance understanding

o planetary evolution.

Learn to live on other planetary

suraces.

Characterize availability o

water and other resources.

Test technologies and

capabilities or human space

exploration.

Advance understanding o solar

system evolution.

Utilize the Moons unique

importance to engage the

public.

Demonstrate innovative deep

space exploration technologies

and capabilities.

Advance understanding o

these primitive bodies in solar

system evolution and origin

o lie.

Test methods to deend the

Earth rom risk o collisions

with near-Earth asteroids.

Expand capability o h

operate in this strateg

beyond low-Earth orb

Demonstrate innovati

space exploration tec

and capabilities.

Challenges

Signicant technology

advancements are essential or

sae and aordable missions.

Radiation risk and mitigation

techniques must be better

understood.

Highly reliable space systems

and inrastructure are needed.

Demonstrated ability to use

local resources is essential.

Expenses associated with

extended surace activities.

Need to better understand

and characterize the asteroid

population.

Technology advancements

are needed beore missions

to asteroids.

Understanding the be

human presence vs. r

Small pressurized rovers on the moon will increase crew mobility and can

be reused at dierent landing sites.

Summary of the Destination Assessment Activity

Wopmay Rock, Mars.

have identied key objectives and challenges that

inuenced the denition of feasible pathways.

Cape St. Vincent Promontory

4

Chapter 3. Mapping the Journey: Long-Range Human Exploration S

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Principles Driving theMission Scenarios:

CapabilityDrivenFramework:Followaphased/stepwise

approach to multiple destinations.

ExplorationValue:Generatepublicbenetsandmeet

exploration objectives.

InternationalPartnerships:Provideearlyandsustained

opportunities or diverse partners.

Robustness:Provideforresiliencetotechnicaland

programmatic challenges.

Affordability:Takeintoaccountbudgetconstraints.

Human-RoboticPartnership:Maximizesynergybetween

human and robotic missions.

Design Reference Missions and Capabilitiesntroduction to Mission Scenarios

or each mission scenario, a conceptual architecture

as considered that included design reference missions

d notional element capabilities. While design refer-

ce missions are generally destination focused, they

ll comprise capabilities that are reused or evolved from

pabilities used at other destinations. In this way, an

olutionary approach to developing a robust set of capa-

lities to sustainably explore our solar system is dened.

graphical representation of design reference missions

ntained early in the scenarios and the key capabilities

sociated with them is on the following page.

o guide mission scenario development, agencies have

ached consensus on principles, such as affordability and

lue to stakeholders (see right). These principles haveen informed by ISS lessons learned, but represent other

nsiderations important to participating agencies. The

lected mission scenarios are indicative of what can be

ne within the parameters of these agreed principles.

ther mission scenarios within the identied pathways are

ssible. For this reason, the common principles should

rve as a basis for exploring variations of the scenarios

r meeting our goals and objectives.

The work reected in the Roadmap is conceptual and

does not contain detailed cost, schedule, or risk analysis

that would be necessary elements of program formulation.

Specic mission plans and fully dened architectures will

be developed by partner agencies as they advance specic

exploration initiatives.

The rst human-scale robot on the Moon, demonstrating technologies

to explore the surace o Mars.

Asteroid Next Design Reference Missions

Deep Space Habitat Deployment

Robotic Precursor Mission

Crew-to-Deep Space Habitat in E-M L1 Short Stay

Crew-to-Deep Space Habitat in E-M L1 Long Stay

Crewed Near-Earth Asteroid Mission using Advanced Propulsion

Moon Next Design Reference Missions

Robotic Precursor Mission

Crew-to-Low Lunar Orbit

Crew-to-Lunar Surace 7-day Sortie Mission

Crew-to-Lunar Surace 28-day Extended Stay Mi

Cargo-to-Lunar Surace (small)

Cargo-to-Lunar Surace (large)

Common Capabilities

NASA Space Launch System

(SLS)

Launch vehicle that has the capability to deliver cargo or crew rom Ear th to orbit.

NASA Multi-purpose Crew

Vehicle (MPCV)

Crew vehicle capable o delivering a crew to exploration destination and back to Earth

Roscosmos Next Generation

Space Launch Vehicle (NGSLV)

Launch vehicle that has the capability to deliver cargo or crew rom Ear th to orbit.

Roscosmos Next Generation

Spacecrat

Crew vehicle capable o delivering a crew to exploration destination and back to Earth

Cryogenic Propulsion Stage

(CPS)

In-space stage that provides delta V to architecture elements using traditional chemic

engines, cryogens, and storables and may include the capability or propellant transe

Servicing Support Systems Systems and tools to enable crew and robots to service in-space systems and assemcapabilities, including extravehicular activity suits.

Commercia l Crew Commercia l system capable o taking crew to low-Earth orbit .

Commercia l Cargo Commercia l system capable o tak ing cargo to low-Earth orbit .

Unique Capabilities

Deep Space

Habitat

An in-space habitat with relevant

subsystems or the purpose o advanc-

ing capabilities and systems requiring

access to a deep space environment.

Advanced

In-Space

Propulsion

Stage

In-space stage using nontraditional

propulsion technologies, such as high-

power electric and nuclear propulsion.

In-Space

Destinations

Systems

These systems have the capabilities

that enable humans to e ectively

complete in-space destination

objectives by enabling access.

Unique Capabilities

Lunar Cargo

Descent

Stage

System designed to land payl

to 8-metric tons on the lunar

Lunar Ascent

Stage

Works in combination with th

descent stage as a system o

porting crew to and rom the

o the Moon.

Surace

Elements

These systems have the capab

that enable humans to eectiv

complete surace destination

1-Metric Ton

Cargo Lander

System designed to land up to

1-metric ton on the lunar sur

6


ar-Earth asteroids require true deep space missions, ree o Earths

agnetosphere (deep space radiation environment), with only limited

portunities or abort.

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Mission Scenario: Asteroid Nexto Mars With Deep Space AsteroidMissions as the Next Step


Robotic Exploration

Robotic Exploration




2011 2020 2028 2033

Low-Earth Orbit

Opportunities for Commercial or International Cis-Lunar Cis-Lunar

Near-Earth Asteroid (NEAs)

Cis-Lunar Servicing and Deployment Deep Space Explorati


Step 2

Crewed Visits to DSH

First Human Missionto an NEA



Precursor toSecond NEA

Second Huto an NEA

Future Hu

CommercialCrew

Commercial Cargo

Next GenSpacecraft

NGSLV

MPCV


CryogenicPropulsionStage

Deep SpaceHabitat (DSH) Space Exploration

Vehicle

Advanced In-spacePropulsion

Crewed Visits to DSHIncreasing Duration


Moon

Robotic Exploration

Robotic Exploration

Future HuMars

Robotic Exploration

Servicing andSupport Systems

S am pl e R et urn O pp ort un it y S am pl e R et ur n O pp or tu ni ty

his scenario pursues human exploration of near-Earth

teroids as the next destination. It offers the opportunity

demonstrate many of the capabilities necessary to send

tronauts to Mars orbit and return them safely to the Earth.

he mission scenario includes deployment of the deep space

bitat in cis-lunar space to demonstrate the capabilities

cessary for traveling and living in deep space. When hard-

are reliability and operational readiness are demonstrated,

e deep space habitat will accompany other capabilities for

e journey to an asteroid.

issions to asteroids will then allow us to learn more

out these primordial objects and examine techniques

d approaches that may one day serve for planetary

fense purposes.

he success of this scenario depends on the availability of

itable near-Earth asteroid human mission targets. Suitabil-

y includes such factors as achievable mission trajectories,

ceptable physical characteristics for crewed operations,

d scientic interest. Since only a small percentage of the

tal near-Earth asteroid population has been discovered

d cataloged, identifying targets that provide exibility in

lection of crewed mission opportunities to achieve most

jectives will be essential to the viability of this strategy

a pathway to eventual human missions to Mars.

hisscenariodevelopsthecapabilitiesnecessary

demonstratecrewedmissionsinspaceforlonger

urationsatincreaseddistancesfromEarth.Also

monstrated are critical capabilities, such as radiation

otection and reliable life support systems, to support

e longer duration trip times required to send astronauts

Mars orbit and return them safely to Earth. Successful

uman exploration of near-Earth asteroids will necessitateastery of advanced propulsion technologies, which are

sential for the safe and affordable exploration of Mars.

ome agencies are studying human missions to the Martian

oons, Phobos and Deimos. While the benets provided

human missions must be understood, these missions

ay also provide the opportunity to demonstrate similar

pabilities as those required for asteroid missions.

Evolutionary Strategy Demonstrating Technologies Needed for Mars Mission Asteroid Next

ISS/LEO Cis-lunar Near-Earth Asteroids

Advancingin-spacehabitationcapability

or long durations

Subsystemhighreliabilityandcommonal-

ity, repair at the lowest level

Advancedextravehicularactivityand

robotics capabilitiesLong-termstorageandmanagement

o cryogenic fuids

SimulationofMarsmissionoperational

concepts

In-spacehabitationforlongdurationsin

the appropriate radiation environment

Radiationprotectionandmeasurement

techniques

Demonstrationofbeyondlow-Earthorbit

re-entry speedsAutomateddeliveryanddeploymentof

systems


ity, repair at the lowest level living with-

out a supply chain

Long-termstorageandmanagementof

cryogenic fuids

Simulationsofnear-Earthasteroidmission

operational concepts

Demonstrationofin-spacehabitatio

capability or long durations

Demonstrationofadvancedin-space

propulsion systems

Long-termstorageandmanagemen

o cryogenic fuidsAutomateddeliveryanddeployment

o systems

Subsystemhighreliabilityandcomm

repair at the lowest level living wit

supply chain

DemonstrationofMarsmissiontran


8


Key eatures o this mission scenarioinclude the ollowing:

TargetedutilizationoftheISStoadvanceexploration

capabilities

Continuedavailabilityoflow-Earthorbitaccessthrough

commercial/international service providers

Opportunitiestodemonstratehumanoperationsincis-lunar

space, enabling uture missions such as satellite servicing/

deployment

TheearlydeploymentofthedeepspacehabitattoEarth-

Moon Lagrange point 1 (EML 1), allowing demonstration o

habitation and other critical systems in a deep space envi-

ronment

Progressivelylongerdemonstrationsoftheabilitytolive

without a regular supply chain rom Earth

TechnologyPullfortechnologiessuchasadvancedpro-

pulsion and large scale in-space power generation required

or human Mars missions

Twoasteroidmissions,eachwithacrewoffour.Theseare

preceded by robotic precursor missions that may visit mul-

tiple potential asteroid targets to characterize the risk and

scientic priorities or each potential target

ImageCredit:IkeshitaAkihiro

The Japan Aerospace Exploration

Agencys (JAXAs) Hayabusa 2

will gather data inorming uture

proximity operations and station

keeping, as well as inormation

on the composition o the C-type

asteroid, 1999 JU3.

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Mission Scenario: Moon Nexto Mars With the Moons the Next Step

his scenario pursues human exploration of the Moon as

e next destination. The Moon is seen as an ideal location

prepare people for learning how to live and work on

her planetary surfaces. It also holds a wealth of infor-

ation about the formation of the solar system, and its

oximity and potential resources make it an important

stination in expanding human presence.

hisscenariodevelopsthecapabilitiesnecessaryto

ploreandbegintounderstandhowtoliveself-

fcientlyonaplanetarysurface.Also demonstrated

e certain capabilities to support Mars mission landings,

ch as precision landing and hazard avoidance. Initial

ghts of the cargo lander not only demonstrate its reli-

ility but deliver human-scale robotic systems that will

nduct science and prepare for the human missions to

llow. The period between the initial delivery of human-

ale robotics and human missions will allow target

chnologies to be demonstrated and human/robotic oper-

onal techniques to be developed. When humans arrive,

ey will perform scientic investigations of the polar

gion, travelling enough terrain to master the technolo-

es and techniques needed for Martian exploration. They

ll also aid the robotic assessment of availability and

tractability of lunar volatiles.

fter the lunar missions, exploration of near-Earth aster-

ds would follow. These missions require additional

pabilities, yet are an important step in preparation

future missions to the Mars. In-space systems with

creased ability to support longer missions at increased

stances from Earth would be necessary to reaching Mars

bit and surface.

Key eatures o this mission scenarioinclude the ollowing:

TargetedutilizationoftheISStoadvanceexploration

capabilities

Continuedavailabilityoflow-Earthorbitaccessthrough

commercial/international service providers

Ahumanexplorationapproachthatbuildsonthelargenumber

o lunar robotic missions planned during 20102020 to inorm

detailed scientic and in situ research utilization objectives

Earlydeploymentofmediumcargolanderandlargecargo

lander, sized to ultimately serve as part o a human landing

system, along with the deployment o a human-scale rover

chassis to advance robotic exploration capability

Fiveextended-staymissionsforacrewoffour,exploration

o polar region with long-distance surace mobility while

demonstrating capabilities needed or Mars exploration

TechnologyPullfortechnologiessuchaslongdistance

surace mobility, dust management and mitigation tech-

niques, planetary surace habitation, precision landing,

and, i desired, advanced surace power

Alimited,yetadaptable,humanlunarcampaignthatmay

be extended to perorm additional exploration tasks, i

desired, or perhaps enable economically driven utilization

in the long term, i warranted.


Robotic Exploration

Robotic Exploration




2011 2020 2030 2034

Low-Earth Orbit

Opportunities for Commercial or I nternational

Cis-Lunar Missions

Opportunities for Com

or International Luna

Cis-Lunar

Near-Earth Asteroids (NEAs)

Lunar Exploration Deep Space Ex


Step 2


Future Hu

Commercial Cargo MPCV

Communication Assets

Lander Descent Stage

Lander Ascent StageDeep Sp

Hab

Lunar SurfaceElements

1-Metric TonCargo Lander

Spac


Moon

Robotic Exploration

Small-Scale, Human-Scale, Human-Enabled

NGSLV

S amp le Re tu rn Op por tu ni ty S amp le R et ur n Op po rt un it y

Crewed V

Humt

Robotic Exploration

Mars

Robotic Exploration

Servicing andSupport Systems Cryogenic

PropulsionStage



CommercialCrew

Next GenSpacecraft

Evolutionary Strategy Demonstrating Technologies Needed for Mars Mission Moon Next

ISS/LEO Moon Near-Earth Asteroids

In-spacehabitationforlongdurations


ity, repair at the lowest level

Advancedextravehicularactivityand

robotics capabilitiesLong-termstorageandmanagement

o cryogenic fuids

Simulationofoperationalconcepts

Surfacehabitationcapabilities

Marssurfaceexplorationscenarios,opera-

tionsandtechniques:long-rangemobility,

automated predeployment

Capabilitiesandtechniquesforextendedoperation in a dusty environment

Demonstrationofbeyondlow-Earthorbit

re-entry speeds

Advancedsurfacepowerifavailable

Extremesurfacemobility

Robust,routineextravehicularactivity

capability

Precisionlandingandhazardavoidance

Demonstrationofin-spacehabitatio

capability or long durations

Demonstrationofadvancedin-space

propulsion systems

Long-termstorageandmanagemeno cryogenic fuids

Automateddeliveryanddeployment

o systems

Subsystemhighreliabilityandcomm

repair at the lowest level living wit

supply chain

DemonstrationofMarsmissiontran


Chandrayaan-1 mapped the chemical characteristics and three

dimensional topography o the Moon and discovered water

molecules in the polar regions o the Moon.

0


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Observation Space agencies should take steps to defne and

manage the actors aecting interdependency

at the architecture, mission, inrastructure and

systems level, in order to enable a successul

exploration initiative.

urther Steps in DefningMission Scenarios Today

ubsequent iterations of the Global Exploration Road-

ap will incorporate updates to these mission scenarios,

ecting updated agency policies and plans as well as

nsensus on innovative ideas and solutions proposed by

e broader aerospace community. Ultimately, the road-ap will reect the possible paths to the surface of Mars.

here are other near-term activities expected to inuence

e evolution of the mission scenarios. For example, les-

ns learned from the ISS Program1, have guided early

ploration planning activities. Recommendations such

the importance of considering dissimilar redundancy

d dening standards and common interfaces to pro-

ote interoperability paves the way for future architecture

d systems development. For example, the ISS partner-

ip released the International Docking System Standard,

hich will allow future crew and cargo vehicles to dock

berth and service the ISS or any other space infrastruc-

re that carries the standard interface.

paceagencieshavealreadyinitiateddiscussionson

mmoninterfacesandstandardssuchastheInterna-

onalDockingSystemStandardbytheISSpartners.

isvitallyimportantthateffortslikethiscontinue.

addition, partnering between agencies where each pro -des capabilities on the critical path to completion of

ission objectives has become common as mission com-

exity increases and interagency relationships become

A prototype o the NASA docking system that meets International Docking

System Standards requirements undergoes dynamic testing at the NASA

Johnson Space Center.

Chapter Human Exploratio

Preparatory Activitie

Across the globe, engineers and scientists are working

many o the essential preparatory activities necessary

extend human presence into space and explore the plaMars. By developing a common roadmap, agencies ho

coordinate their preparatory activities in ways that max

return on investments and enable realization o their go

and objectives.

Signifcant activities are underway in the ollowing area

each presenting opportunities or near-term coordinati

and cooperation.

UseoftheISSforexploration

Roboticmissions

Advancedtechnologydevelopment

Developmentofnewspacesystemsandinfrastru

Analogueactivities

stronger. This is true for both human and robotic explora-

tion initiatives. Large multinational exploration missions

will require agencies to accept and manage interdepen -

dency at different levels: architecture, mission, infrastruc-

ture, and systems. The level of interdependency required

of human exploration will necessitate advances beyond

our current experience and increase interoperability across

the architecture.

2

The ISS backdropped by the blackness o space and Earths horizon.

SS Lessons Learned as applied to

Exploration, July 22, 2009

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4

Chapter 4. Human Exploration Preparatory A

Observation ISS plays an essential role in preparing or exploration. ISS partner agencies

should establish and implement plans that create additional opportunities to

advance capabilities, demonstrate technologies, and test operational protocols

and techniques in a timerame that ensures their readiness or beyond low-Earth

orbit missions.

2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 20

CO2

Removal CDRA

CO2

Removal Vozduch

Amine Swing Bed Technology Demonstration

O2

Recovery From CO2

(Sabatier)

VCAM Demonstration

Environmental Management (TBD)

Real-time Particle Monitoring

Life Support System Demonstration (Airand Water RevitalizationTBD)

Advanced Closed-Loop System (Air Revitalization)

ANITA-2 (Contamination Monitoring)

Human Health andPerformance Risk Mitigation

Highly Reliable Habitationand Life Support Systems

Demonstration ofExploration Capabilities

Advanced Robotics

Advanced Communicationand Navigation

Operations Conceptsand Technologies

Human Health and Behavioral ScienceOver 160 Experiments

Space Engineering and Technology Research

Inatable Habitat Demonstration

Advanced EVA Suit Demonstration

CSA Technology Demonstrations (TBD)

Exploration Technology Demonstration (TBD)

Advanced Robot System (TBD)

European Robotic Arm (ERA)

DTN Capability Demonstrations

Mars Testbed DTO

International Design Standard for Advanced Logistics

Mars MissionSimulation

Robotic Refueling Mission

Robonaut

XNAV (Deep Space Navigation)

International Docking System Deployment

METERON Tele-Robotic DemonstrationWith Columbus Communication Terminal

Dextre Upgrade Mission

Canadarm 2, Dextre

Discrete Events

LEGEND

Roadmap: Use of ISS for Exploration

Use o ISS or Exploration

Essential Technology and OperationsDemonstrations on ISS

Highly Reliable Habitation and Life Support Systems

Deep space exploration necessitates reducing our dependence on

the supply chain o spares and consumables rom Earth. Critical

unctions such as water recovery and management, air revital-

ization, and waste management must operate reliably and in a

closed-loop manner.

Human Health and Performance

Understanding the risks to human health and perormance,

such as the eects o radiation and developing the capabilities

to mitigate the risks is essential or keeping crews healthy and

productive. In addition, advances in clinical real-time diagnostic

capabilities will be needed to address health issues that arise

during long missions.

Demonstration of Exploration Capabilities

ISS provides a unique space and operational environment to dem-

onstrate reliability and key perormance parameters o capabilities

such as infatable habitats, next generation universal docking sys-

tems, and robotic systems.

Advanced Communication and Space Internetworking

Capabilities

The ISS will be congured to serve as a testbed or advanced

communications and networking technologies, such as extension

o the Internet throughout the solar system. Key to this will be to

determine how to deal with the long time delays and communica-tions disruptions inherent in deep space communication. Several

disruptive tolerant networking nodes will be established within

the ISS.

Operations Concepts and Techniques

The ISS provides the opportunity to simulate autonomous crew

operations and other modes o operation consistent with Mars

mission challenges. It also provides the high-delity environ-

ment to test alternative concepts o systems ailure management,

advanced diagnostic and repair techniques.

Cosmonaut Gennady Padalka perorms a musculoskeletal

ultrasound examination on crewmember Mike Fincke.

Ultrasound use on the ISS has pioneered procedures or

immediate diagnosis o injuries and other medical condi-

tions, providing money-saving advancements in the practice

o clinical and telemedicine.

STS-133 Flyaround o ISS.

he ISS plays a key role in advancing the capabilities,

chnologies, and research needed for exploration beyond

w-Earth orbit. Since the rst element was deployed,

years ago, the ISS has advanced the state of the art

rough numerous demonstrations and investigations in

itical areas. As shown at the right, research and technol-

gy development in critical areas such as habitation sys-

ms and human health research will enable reducing risks

long-duration missions. Demonstration of exploration

chnologies, including advance robotics and communi-

tion technologies will inform exploration systems and

frastructure denition.

here are additional opportunities for using the ISS

prepare for exploration. The recent decision by ISS

rtners to extend the life of the ISS until at least 2020

sures these opportunities can be realized. While the

ditional activities are not rmly funded within ISS part -

r agencies yet, they represent exploration priority areas.

coordination with the ISECG, the ISS Multilateral

oordination Board has formed a team to study possible

chnology collaboration initiatives based on the ISECG

ission scenarios. These technology demonstrations on

e station will support implementation of missions to

teroids, the Moon, and Mars. It should also be noted

at the ISS partnership is interested in making access

the ISS available to non-ISS partner nations who are

eparing exploration roles for themselves.

any technologies initially demonstrated on ISS may

net from integration into automated or free-ying

atforms in the ISS vicinity. For example, advanced elec-

c propulsion systems, inatable habitation modules,

d advanced life support systems can benet from free-

yers that allow demonstration of standalone capabilities,

ploration interfaces, or environmental conditions.

This roadmap indicates work o

or planned in the areas where

advancements are needed, an

ISS provides the best opportu

demonstrate them.

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6


Planned Robotic Missions

Robotic Missions: An InvaluableContribution to Human Exploration

obotic missions have always served as the precursors to

uman exploration missions. Starting with Project Apollo,

ecursor robotic missions such as Rover, Surveyor, and

unar Orbiter dened the boundary conditions and envi -

nments necessary to inform future human explorationthe Moon. These robotics missions identied potential

zards and characterized areas of the lunar surface for

bsequent human exploration and scientic investiga-

on. Similarly, several robotic missions have been sent

Mars in the recent years and these have consisted of

mote sensing orbital spacecraft, landers, and explora-

on rovers. Much like the robotic missions to the Moon,

ese missions have obtained critical data on the Martian

rface and atmospheric environment that will guide the

velopment and operational concepts of exploration

stems.

obotic missions planned in the decade from 2010 to

20 will make important contributions to the body of

nowledge of the Moon, asteroids, Mars and its moons

d enable maximum return on the investments required

for subsequent human mission. In addition, continued

robotic exploration in conjunction with future human

activities complements both the expansion of humanity

beyond low-Earth orbit and the scientic understanding

of the Universe.

Whether robotic mission formulation is primarily for

scientic investigation or human exploration, there are

opportunities to signicantly increase the return to each

community. The new U.S. Planetary Science Decadal

Survey 20112 acknowledges this potential, encouraging

the human exploration community to take into accountsignicant scientic objectives, while recognizing that

certain robotic science missions have great potential for

lling knowledge gaps applicable to human missions.

Taking appropriate steps toward further coordination will

increase the value of space exploration investment to our

global stakeholder community.

This image taken by JAX As Selene mission provides lighting inormation

about a potential human landing site.

2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024

GRAIL

Chandrayaan-2Luna-Resurs

Selene-2 Selene-3

LADEE

MAVEN

Luna-Glob Lunar Lander

Lander/Rover

Orbiter

Sample Return

LRO

MO 01

Mars Express

2018 NASA-ESA Rover Mission

MELOS

2016 ESA-NASA ExoMars-TGO

MRO

MER

MSL (Surface)

Phobos-Grunt

NEOSSat

Hayabusa-2

Apophis

Osiris-Rex

Rosetta

R Mars Crawler concept.

Observation

Steps should be taken by space agencies to explore the natural synergiesbetween the objectives o robotic planetary science programs and those o

the human-robotic exploration strategy. Coordinating uture missions o mutual

beneft should leverage common interests and create new opportunities or

both communities.

Mars Exploration Rover begins exploring Mars.

2 Vision and Voyages for Planetary Science in the Decade

20132022, National Research Council, March 7, 2001

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8


Advanced Technologies

ppropriately leveraging global investments in technol-

gy development and demonstration is expected to accel-

ate the availability of critical capabilities needed for

uman exploration missions. No one agency can invest

bustly in all the needed technology areas that represent

ey challenges for executing human missions beyond

w-Earth orbit.

Technology development is strategic for all agencies

since participation to international missions materializes

mainly through technology contributions. Hence, technol-

ogy development is a competitive area and agencies want

to identify where they should focus their investments to

maximize their contribution potential. To be successful,

an international space exploration program should pro-

vide interesting and achievable opportunities for all

participating agencies.

Therefore, agencies have begun sharing information

on their investment areas. Categorizing the many key

systems and technologies needed for space exploration

facilitates information sharing among agencies. To start

this process, the ISECG has used the technology area

categorization dened by NASAs Ofce of the Chief

Technologist3.

The following table represents the rst compilation of

initial agency inputs to the ISECG process. It provides

a good general overview of the challenges and can serve

as an effective starting point for a more detailed mapping

of needed technology advancements to ISECG mission

scenarios as the technology discussions mature.

arigold growth experiment using lunar soil simulant, Ukraine.

Robotics demonstration DLRs Justin greets the next generation.

3 Details can be found at http://www.nasa.gov/

pdf/501317main_STR-Overview-Final_rev3.pdf

Categorization of Proposed Technology Developments

Technology Area ASI CNES CSA DLR ESA JAXA KARI NASA NSAU Roscosmo

Launch Propulsion Systems (TA01) Enhance existing

solid or liquid propulsion technologies by lower develop-

ment and operations costs, improved perormance, avail-

ability, and increased capability.

In-Space Propulsion Technologies (TA02) Advance-

ments in conventional and exotic propulsion systems,

improving thrust perormance levels, increased payload

mass, increased reliability, and lowering mass, volume,

operational costs, and system complexity.

Space Power and Energy Storage (TA03) Improve-

ments to lower mass and volume, improve eciency,

enable wide temperature operational range and extreme

radiation environment over current state-o-the-art space

photovoltaic systems, uel cells, and other electrical

energy generation, distribution, and storage technologies.

Robotics, Telerobotics and AutonomousSystems (TA04) Improvements in mobility, sensing and

perception, manipulation, human-system interaces,

system autonomy are needed. Advancing and standard-

izing interaces or autonomous rendezvous and docking

capabilities will also be necessary to acilitate complex

in-space assembly tasks.

Communication and Navigation (TA05) Technology

advancements to enable higher orward & return link

communication data rates, improved navigation precision,

minimizing latency, reduced mass, power, volume and

lie-cycle costs.

Human Health, Life Support and Habitation

Systems (TA06) Improvements in reliability, maintain-

ability, reduced mass and volume, advancements in

biomedical countermeasures, and sel-suciency with

minimal logistics needs are essential or long-duration

spacefight missions. In addition, advancements in space

radiation research is required, including advanced detec-

tion and shielding technologies.

Human Exploration Destination Systems (TA07)

Technology advancements with In Situ Resource Utiliza-

tion (ISRU) or uel production, O2, and other resources,

improved mobility systems including surace, o-surace

and extravehicular activity (EVA) and extravehicular robot-

ics (EVR), advanced habitat systems, and advancements

in sustainability & supportability technologies.

Science Instruments, Observatories and Sensor

Systems (TA08) Technologies to advance current state-

o-the-art or remote sensing instruments/sensors or

scientic instruments, advanced scientic observatories,

and in situ instruments/sensors o planetary samples.

DLRs humanoid robot, Justin, demonstrates dexterous tool handling.

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Artists concept o MPCV orbital operations.

0


echnology Area ASI CNES CSA DLR ESA JAXA KARI NASA NSAU Roscosmos UKSA

ntry, Descent, and Landing Systems (TA09) Human-

ass capabilities or Mars entry, descent, and landing;

echnologies advancing low-mass high velocity Thermal

rotection Systems (TPS), atmospheric drag devices,

eep-throttling engines, landing gear, advanced sensing,

ero-breaking, aero-capture, etc. Sot precision landing

apability is also needed, e.g., or lunar missions.

anotechnology (TA10) New advanced materials or

educing vehicle & structural mass, improved unctional-

y and durability o materials, and unique new capa-

lities such as enhanced power generation & storage,

anopropellants or propulsion, and nanoltration or

mproved astronaut heath management.

Modeling, Simulation, Information Technology

nd Processing (TA11) Advancements in technolo-

es associated with fight & ground computing,

tegrated s/w and h/w modeling systems, simulation,

nd inormation processing.

Materials, Structures, Mechanical Systems and

Manufacturing (TA12) Technology advancements or

ghtweight structures providing radiation protection,

multiunctional structural design and innovative manu-

acturing. In addition, new technologies associated

with reducing design, manuacturing, certication

nd lie-cycle costs.

round and Launch Systems Processing (TA13)

echnologies to optimize the lie-cycle operational costs,

crease reliability and mission availability, improve mis-

on saety, reduce mission risk, reducing environmental

mpacts (i.e., green technologies).

hermal Management Systems (TA14) Technology

dvancement or cryogenic systems perormance & e-

ency, eective thermal control systems or heat acquisi-

on/transport/rejection, and increase robustness and

educe maintenance or thermal protection systems.

ObservationAgencies participating in ISECG should look

or potential cooperation opportunities related

to advanced technologies in order to maximize

the contribution o individual agency invest-

ments toward achievement o their common

long-range strategy.

gencies are working on advancing many technologies

eeded for exploration. By sharing information on priori-

es and status, agencies are looking for coordination and

ture cooperation opportunities that:

Identify cooperation opportunities for technology

demonstration missions.

Identify gap areas where the investments are

unlikely to provide the needed performance when

required and collaborate to ll these gaps.

Encourage competition to spur innovation and provide

for a more robust overall architecture where differ-

ent technologies and/or approaches perform critical

functions.

Create partnership opportunities related to usage

of unique ground facilities or capabilities.

The goal is to create opportunities for cooperation, while

recognizing agency autonomy in investment decisions.

A New Generation o SpaceSystems and Inrastructure

Human exploration beyond low-Earth orbit will require

a new generation of capabilities. These future systems

will incorporate technologies still to be discovered and

build not only upon existing capabilities and compe-

tencies, but also on the lessons learned and experiencegained from systems currently in operation. New systems

must be particularly reliable and safe because interplan-

etary resupply missions from Earth cannot reach the crew

on short notice and quick return to Earth is not possible.

They also will benet from enhanced interoperability

and common interfaces and standards.

By working together on a long-range human exploration

roadmap and considering the feasible scenarios contained

within, we can reach conclusions regarding the neces -

sity of certain fundamental building blocks. Systems and

infrastructure elements that represent the key enabling

capabilities of any exploration scenario include the

following:

Heavy-lift launch vehicle

Crew transportation capability, capable of interplan-

etary return velocities

In-space propulsion stage large enough to transport

key systems and infrastructure to deep space.

Servicing and support systems, including extra-

vehicular activity and robotics systems

Activities that are currently underway include heavy-

lift launch and crew transportation vehicles along with

advanced extravehicular activity suits, where systems are

in work by NASA and Roscosmos. Several agencies are

investing in, or have signicant competencies in, the area

of advanced robotics systems. These rst steps in imple-

menting the capability-driven framework of the future

Development model o the NASA Multi-purpose Crew Vehicle (M

exploration architecture provide near- and long-te

opportunities for coordination and cooperation.

Looking forward, several space agencies are unde

exploration architecture and system studies. Thes

are mainly intended to inform individual decision

regarding exploration mission scenarios and agen

BycollaborativelyworkingwithinISECGtod

missionscenariosandthedesignreferencemis

includedwithin,agenciesareabletomakeind

decisions,whichmayaligntheirstudieswithe

internationalconsensusonexplorationmission

architectures.

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Experimental rover testing in CNES Mars-yard.

2

Analogues to Simulatextreme Environments Space

wide range of terrestrial analogues are in use today to

mulate exploration missions, helping prepare for explo-

tion beyond low-Earth orbit. These activities allow

cess to relevant analogue environments that enable

sting of exploration technologies, conceptual systems

d their interoperability, as well as concepts for opera-

ons and exploration. They also provide an important

portunity for public engagement in a setting that brings

gether students, astronauts, scientists and engineers,

uilds networking and strengthens partnerships. Ana-

gue environments are also used to support research

to human health and performance questions.

gencies have begun to share information regarding

alogue activities, identifying partnership opportuni-

s that could increase the return on analogue mission

vestments.

hereareindividualandjointanalogueactivities

ngoinginseveralcountries.Agenciesareinterested

sharingtheirplanningandlessonslearnedwiththe

eaofadvancingglobalpreparationsforexploration

ndndingpartnerships.

Canadian Juno Tandem Rover carrying the Regolith Environment Science

Oxygen & Lunar Volatile Extraction (RESOLVE) payload and the Tridar

navigation unit at Mauna Kea deployment site in 2010.

Desert RATS (Arizona, USA).

Habitation Demo (Antarctica).

Chapter Conclusio

The Global Exploration Roadmap reects international

to defne pathways or human exploration o the solar s

with Mars as the ultimate goal within our sights. Intern

cooperation will not only enable these challenging mis

but also increase the probability o their success. Two

easible pathways have been identifed and, over time,

updates to this roadmap will continue to reect the eo

participating agencies to collaboratively develop explo

mission scenarios and coordinate their preparatory act

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Precursor

Precursor Precursor

lobal Exploration Roadmap

2020 2030

ISS Research & Technology Demonstrations

abling Exploration Capabilities

on

Life Support, Human Health, Habitats

Communication and Robotic Technologies

International Docking System Standard

Cryo Fluid Management and Transfer

ar-Earth Asteroids

rs

Crew and Cargo Services

Commercial/International Low-Earth Orbit Platforms and Missions

Two Optional Pathways Guiding Investments

in Technology, Capabilities, and ISS Utilization

Driven by Discovery

and Emerging Technolo

Human Mis

to Mars Sur

Deep Space Habitat Advanced In-space Propulsion

Space Exploration Vehicle

Lander Ascent StageLander Descent Stage

Cryogenic Propulsion

Stage

Space Launch System/

Heavy-Launch Vehicle

NGSLV

Roscosmos Next

Generation Spacecraft

Multi-purpose Crew Vehicle

(MPCV)

Lunar Orbital Mission Human Lunar Return

First Human

Asteroid Mission

EML1 MissionFirst Mission to Deep Space Habitat

Second Human

Asteroid Mission

Asteroid Next

Moon Next

R

LEGEND

H

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6

Chapter 5. Con

Conclusion Olympus Mons, Mars.

ternational coordination and cooperation expands the

eadth of human space exploration beyond what any one

tion may accomplish on its own and increases the prob -

ility of success of human and robotic space exploration

itiatives. More importantly, it will enable the complex

d challenging missions to the Moon, asteroids, and

ars. Achieving the vision of sustainable human space

ploration, including human missions to Mars, requires

litical support and resources over an extended period

time.

ontinuation of the Global Exploration Roadmap and

velopment of coordinated national efforts will require

nsiderable dialog on how to align our policies and

ans, as well as address the intergovernmental consider-

ons that affect its successful implementation. Decisions

garding destination sequencing will not be made by

e ISECG, but will follow national policy decisions and

ternational consultation at multiple levels informed

y the ISECGs work to collaboratively advance explo-

tion architectures and mission designs. In the coming

ars, many nations will be developing their domestic

licy and legal frameworks to most effectively imple-

ent sustainable human space exploration.

dditionally, as noted in the Global Exploration Strategy

amework Document, for private industry to be con-

nt about investing, it needs the certainty of a long-term

mmitment to space exploration, the opportunity to

troduce its ideas into government thinking, and the rule

law. This means common understandings on such dif-

cult issues as property rights and technology transfer.

While this document does not create commitments of

any kind on behalf of any of the participants, the GER is

an important step in an evolving process toward achiev -

ing a global, strategic, coordinated, and comprehensive

approach to space exploration.

The following is a summary of key observations made

during the development of the Global Exploration Road-

map, presented in the order they appear in this document.

They represent actions that agencies may take to further

advance the Global Exploration Strategy:

1. Recognize that interdependency is essential and take

steps to its successful implementation.

2. Realize additional opportunities for using the ISS.

3. Increase opportunities for enhancing the human-robotic

science partnership.

4. Pursue opportunities for leveraging investments that

advance critical exploration technologies.

This and subsequent iterations of the Global Exploration

Roadmap should provide the technical basis for informing

the necessary binding agreements between agencies and

governments. The next iteration of the Global Exploration

Roadmap is planned for 2012. Agencies hope to further

elaborate the strategies presented in this document and

identify additional opportunities for near-term partner-

ships that contribute to the realization of our journey to

destinations beyond low-Earth orbit, including our driving

goal of Mars.

Space is indifferent to what we do; it has

no feeling, no design, no interest in whether

or not we grapple with it. But we cannot

be indifferent to space, because the grand,

slow march of intelligence has brought us,

in our generation, to a point from which we

can explore and understand and utilize it.

To turn back now would be to deny our

history, our capabilities.

~ James A. Michener

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National Aeronautics and Space Administration

Headquarters

Washington, DC 20546-0001

www.nasa.gov

NP-2011-09-766-HQ

8-504986

The Global Exploration Roadmap is a nonbinding product

o the International Space Exploration Coordination Group

(ISECG). This frst iteration will be ollowed by periodic

updates as the content evolves and matures. ISECG was

established by 14 space agencies to advance the Global

Exploration Strategy by providing a orum where interested

agencies can share their objectives and plans, and explore

concepts that make use o synergies. ISECG is committed to

the development o products that enable participating agencies

to take concrete steps toward partnerships that reect a globallycoordinated exploration eort.

Publishing services provided by:

An electronic version o this document and more inormation can

befoundat:http://www.globalspaceexploration.org

International Space Exploration

Coordination Group

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