Beyond the Station

Abstract

The NASA Pathfinder program for sending humans and robots to explore the solar system is discussed. The various technologies which are to be developed to support the program are described, emphasizing technology for an in-situ resource-processing plant for production of oxygen on the moon and space nuclear power for propulsion to the outer planets. The use of Pathfinder to validate advanced propulsion concepts and the use of aerobraking to land on Mars are discussed. Communications between Mars and earth are addressed. Mission scenarios currently under consideration for Pathfinder are examined.