Personnel representing several NASA field centers have formulated a "Reference Mission" addressing human exploration of Mars. This report summarizes their work and describes a plan for the first human missions to Mars, using approaches that are technically feasible, have reasonable risks, and have relatively low costs. The architecture for the Mars Reference Mission builds on previous work of the Synthesis Group (1991) and Zubrin's (1991) concepts for the use of propellants derived from the Martian Atmosphere. In defining the Reference Mission, choices have been made. In this report, the rationale for each choice is documented; however, unanticipated technology advances or political decisions might change the choices in the future.


    Access

    Access via TIB

    Check availability in my library


    Export, share and cite



    Title :

    Human Exploration of Mars: The Reference Mission of the NASA Mars Exploration Study Team


    Contributors:

    Publication date :

    1997-07-01


    Type of media :

    Report


    Type of material :

    No indication


    Language :

    English