NASA recently released several new documents as part of an update to its Moon to Mars architecture, a roadmap meant to guide the space agency in its efforts to explore the surface of the Moon under the Artemis campaign and eventually send crewed missions to Mars.
Revised Architecture Definition Document
The latest update to the architecture includes a revision of the Architecture Definition Document, which covers exploration plan processes and technical approaches, NASA said Friday. The revised document now offers more information concerning the agency’s decision road-mapping process. The revised document now also lists opportunities that will help technology developers determine what research to prioritize to help enable the Moon to Mars architecture.
Nuclear Fission, Lunar Cargo Lander & Initial Habitat
The architecture update also includes 12 new white papers, with one highlighting the intent to use nuclear fission as the primary power source to sustain personnel on the surface of Mars.
The update also adds two new elements to the architecture. The first is a lunar surface cargo lander, which will deliver various payloads, including those for logistics, communications and science and technology. The second is an initial surface habitat to house astronauts on the lunar surface.
Architecture Concept Review
The changes come on the heels of an Architecture Concept Review, which NASA Associate Administrator Jim Free said is “critical to getting us on a path to mount a human mission to Mars.”
“We’re taking a methodical approach to mapping out the decisions we need to make, understanding resource and technological trades, and ensuring we are listening to feedback from stakeholders,” Free added.
