Space resource logistics for human exploration to Mars

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.