Lunar Way-station (Moon-Mars Workshop in conjunction with the planetary society)

Satinder Shergill, Timea Csengeri, Ashish Sharma

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

A Lunar Way-station is a test bed for operational aspects of a planetary outpost, defined here as a base on the surface of a planetary body. This paper aims to establish and determine architecture for future strategic navigation systems, common geodetic net, timeframe and landing sites on the Moon with a view to promote international cooperation for lunar exploration. This study is being carried out within the framework of current projects of the Space Generation Advisory Council. The Authors have considered a two layered system for tracking and navigation purposes i.e. primary layer for basic communication and secondary layer as a back-up system. In order to achieve synergy between Earth-based mission control and the Lunar Way-station, a 24 hour based timeframe equal to GMT has been initially selected and is referred to as Standard Global Lunar Time. Several international landing sites have been discussed according to different mission priorities and presented alongside their benefits and limitations. The paper addresses criteria that would be applicable to the different scenarios. In addition the authors have tried to identify some possible landing technologies already used on Earth. In-situ Resource Utilization (ISRU) and self-sustainable environmental management systems (including planetary protection regulations) have been identified as essential, for the Lunar Way-station to function as a true 'test bed' for future planetary outposts. With international cooperation within current lunar missions and projects, help of emerging technologies, involvement of the private sector, universities and agencies, the dream of a Lunar Way-station could become a reality. If so, it would prove to be a boon for future planetary exploration and Human spaceflight. The Moon provides a potential place for study and analysis of sample return missions from anywhere in the solar system, which could also include a quarantine period before returning to the Earth.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationInternational Astronautical Federation - 59th International Astronautical Congress 2008, IAC 2008
Pages1975-1987
Number of pages13
StatePublished - 2008
Externally publishedYes
Event59th International Astronautical Congress 2008, IAC 2008 - Glasgow, United Kingdom
Duration: Sep 29 2008Oct 3 2008

Publication series

NameInternational Astronautical Federation - 59th International Astronautical Congress 2008, IAC 2008
Volume3

Conference

Conference59th International Astronautical Congress 2008, IAC 2008
Country/TerritoryUnited Kingdom
CityGlasgow
Period9/29/0810/3/08

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Space and Planetary Science
  • Aerospace Engineering
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics

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