Space resource logistics for human exploration to Mars

Hao Chen, Tristan Sarton du Jonchay, Linyi Hou, Koki Ho

    Research output: Contribution to journalConference articlepeer-review

    1 Scopus citations

    Abstract

    This paper develops an interdisciplinary space architecture optimization framework to analyze the tradeoff on in-situ resource utilization (ISRU) options, identify technology gaps, evaluate the benefits of ISRU, and optimize the design of infrastructure for various Mars human space exploration scenarios and mission profiles. It performs the trade studies from the perspective of space logistics, which takes into account the interplanetary transportation, infrastructure deployment, ISRU system operation, and the further logistics of the produced resources. Our method considers space architecture design and operation from a subsystem level to enable trade studies between ISRU technologies and in-space architecture elements in space resource logistics. A case study involving a multi-mission human Mars exploration campaign is performed to evaluate the effectiveness of existing and proposed ISRU technology concepts and system designs. The results can provide us with a better understanding of the benefits and cost of different ISRU technologies in interplanetary space transportation. A sensitivity analysis is also conducted to figure out whether lunar ISRU can be beneficial to Mars missions. The results of this analysis can help decision-makers determine and optimize the roadmap of ISRU technologies.

    Original languageEnglish
    Article numberIAC-19_A5_2_4_x49279
    JournalProceedings of the International Astronautical Congress, IAC
    Volume2019-October
    StatePublished - 2019
    Event70th International Astronautical Congress, IAC 2019 - Washington, United States
    Duration: 21 Oct 201925 Oct 2019

    Keywords

    • Human space exploration
    • In-situ resource utilization (ISRU)
    • Space logistics

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