MARS-X
DOCUMENTS
* Manuscript presented during the 64th International Astronautical Congress, 23-27 September 2013, in Beijing, China. www.iafastro.org
Mission Statement
Mars-X proposes a scenario to explore Mars by landing humans on a Martian moon and returning them safely to Earth, in order to prepare the foundation for the first human mission to the surface of the Red Planet.
Introduction
It is important for the advancement of the human species to leave the cradle of Earth and extend human presence to the rest of the solar system and beyond. For centuries the red hue of Mars has captured the imagination of humanity; now it is time to embrace whatever lies beneath the rough surface. 27 graduate students have come together at the International Space University to research human exploration of Mars from Martian orbit.
The Mars-X project identifies the problems associated with sending humans to a Martian moon and returning them safely to Earth. A framework is suggested for addressing these challenges by proposing an alternative to the International Space Exploration Coordination Group’s Global Exploration Roadmap. This alternative advises going to Phobos as a preliminary step to explore Mars, instead of missions to the Moon and Near-Earth Asteroids.
Mars-X combines the intermediate goals of a low gravity asteroid rendezvous with the preparatory goals of observing and preparing for a human mission to the Martian surface. Phobos will help reveal not only the geological development of Mars itself but also provide numerous scientific answers related to the formation of the planets.
Technical, scientific, political, legal, ethical, and economic aspects are addressed. Sustainability for such an endeavor requires a long-term outreach and educational vision. Boosting interest in STEM subjects and improving space awareness is essential to ensure overall mission success.
Mars-X brings a unique perspective to the challenge of advancing human exploration throughout space.