In May 2015, NASA's Future In-Space Operations (FISO) program hosted a teleconference featuring Humphrey "Hoppy" Price from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). Price, a seasoned systems engineer with experience on missions like GRAIL and Cassini, presented a conceptual framework for a human mission to Mars orbit in the 2030s. This presentation aimed to outline a feasible approach for sending astronauts to Mars orbit using existing and near-term technologies, emphasizing a mission duration of approximately one year and a deep space habitat weighing around 50 metric tons. ([](

Mission Objectives and Duration

The proposed mission focused on achieving a rapid transit to Mars orbit, minimizing the time astronauts would spend in deep space. By leveraging current propulsion technologies, the mission aimed to reduce the journey duration to about one year. This timeframe was considered optimal to mitigate the risks associated with prolonged exposure to deep space radiation and microgravity environments. ([ntrs.nasa.gov](

Mission Architecture and Components

The mission architecture was designed to utilize existing technologies and infrastructure to ensure feasibility within the 2030s timeframe. Key components included:

  • Launch Vehicles: The mission would employ heavy-lift rockets capable of transporting substantial payloads beyond low Earth orbit. These vehicles were essential for delivering the necessary modules and supplies for the mission.
  • Deep Space Habitat: A habitat module, approximately 50 metric tons in mass, would serve as the living and working space for the crew during their journey to and from Mars orbit. This habitat was designed to support the crew's life support systems, scientific equipment, and storage needs.
  • Propulsion Systems: Advanced propulsion technologies, such as solar electric propulsion, were considered to efficiently transport the crew and cargo to Mars orbit. These systems offered the necessary thrust and efficiency for the mission's duration. ([science.nasa.gov](
  • Surface Operations: While the primary focus was on Mars orbit, the mission plan included contingencies for potential surface operations. This involved pre-positioning robotic assets and conducting remote scientific experiments from orbit. ([ntrs.nasa.gov](

Technological Considerations and Challenges

Several technological challenges were identified in the mission concept:

  • Radiation Protection: Prolonged exposure to cosmic radiation posed significant health risks to the crew. The mission design incorporated radiation shielding and mission durations that minimized exposure.
  • Life Support Systems: Ensuring reliable life support systems for the crew was paramount. The habitat was equipped with regenerative systems for air, water, and waste management to support the crew for the mission's duration.
  • Communication Systems: Maintaining continuous communication with Earth was essential for mission success. The mission plan included high-bandwidth communication systems capable of transmitting data and receiving commands over the vast distance to Mars orbit. ([nasa.gov](

Implications and Future Directions

The 2015 FISO presentation provided a foundational framework for human missions to Mars orbit in the 2030s. It highlighted the importance of utilizing current technologies and infrastructure to achieve mission objectives within a realistic timeframe. The concepts presented have influenced subsequent mission planning and technological development, contributing to NASA's ongoing efforts to prepare for human exploration of Mars. ([nasa.gov](

While the specific mission architecture presented in 2015 has evolved with advancements in technology and mission planning, the core principles of rapid transit, efficient use of resources, and crew safety continue to guide NASA's approach to human exploration of Mars. Ongoing research and development in areas such as propulsion systems, habitat design, and in-situ resource utilization are essential to address the challenges of long-duration space travel and ensure the success of future missions to Mars orbit and beyond. ([science.nasa.gov](

Sources

  • NASA FISO Presentation: A Scenario for a Human Mission to Mars Orbit in the 2030’s —
  • A Lean, Fast Mars Round-trip Mission Architecture: Using Current Technologies for a Human Mission in the 2030s —
  • Humans to Mars —
  • 6 Technologies NASA is Advancing to Send Humans to Mars —
  • Mars Exploration Future Plan —