Human Exploration of Mars: The Reference Mission of the NASA Mars Exploration Study TeamPersonnel 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.
Document ID
19980037039
Acquisition Source
Johnson Space Center
Document Type
Special Publication (SP)
Authors
Stephen J Hoffman (Science Applications International Corporation (United States) McLean, Virginia, United States)
David I Kaplan (Johnson Space Center Houston, Texas, United States)
Date Acquired
September 6, 2013
Publication Date
July 1, 1997
Publication Information
Publisher: National Aeronautics and Space Administration
IDRelationTitle19980218778See AlsoReference Mission Version 3.0 Addendum to the Human Exploration of Mars: The Reference Mission of the NASA Mars Exploration Study Team