NASA Begins Next Phase Of Moon to Mars Exploration Architecture Development

Its been three months since NASA unveiled its "Moon to Mars" Exploration Architecture plans for human exploration and now the agency is gearing up for the crucial second phase that will focus on missions to Mars. 

The first 150-page architecture definition document was released in April, which linked more than 60 objectives established by NASA for long-term exploration with the planned Artemis lunar missions - the first of four segments in the overall architecture.

"We connected objectives to what we're planning to do in our first four to five missions," said Free. "Having that for the first segment and then the remaining three allows us to demonstrate a clear strategy to implementation." - Jim Free, NASA's Associate Administrator for Exploration Systems Development

As NASA now prepares for the next phase, they have completed a strategic analysis cycle, paving the way for the upcoming architecture concept review. The primary focus of this review will be the final segment: human missions to Mars. This critical review is scheduled to take place in November.

To ensure comprehensive input from stakeholders and experts, NASA has actively sought feedback on the initial architecture definition document. They conducted one-on-one meetings with companies and international partners, along with two workshops in June, designed for international partners and companies/academia, respectively. The feedback received was described as "phenomenal" by Jim Free, highlighting the desire of stakeholders to better understand priorities and investment opportunities that would support the architecture.

Some of the key themes that emerged from the feedback included the need for clearer priorities and guidance on where partners should invest to contribute to the architecture. Additionally, feedback on the architecture development process itself will be incorporated into the next round.

Based on the valuable input collected, NASA is expected to update certain aspects of the architecture definition document. Although specific changes were not disclosed, it is evident that the revisions will enhance the robustness of the agency's approach to human space exploration, allowing it to adapt and withstand potential fiscal and political changes.

Jim Free emphasized that the architecture is designed to transcend presidential administrations and maintain continuity in NASA's long-term goals. It provides future administrations with multiple options to pursue their space exploration objectives. He stated, "It's not about whether you want to do it, it's about how much you want to do."

Beyond its strategic benefits, the architecture also serves as an essential advocacy tool for NASA. By clearly outlining the planned missions and objectives, it allows the agency to communicate what may be impacted by budget cuts. This way, supporters of specific elements can articulate the significance of those missions and encourage their preservation.

"We have to deliver programs on time and on budget. That's really hard - Jim Free, NASA's Associate Administrator for Exploration Systems Development

With the second phase of the "Moon to Mars" architecture underway, NASA is taking significant strides toward its ultimate objective of sending astronauts to explore the Red Planet.