MoonMars Workshop Lunar Waystation in conjunction with the Planetary Society

MoonMars Workshop Lunar Waystation in conjunction with the Planetary Society

The Planetary Society has suggested establishment of an International Lunar Way Station as a first step towards Planetary Outposts. There are many challenges and opportunities in establishing the Way Station, particularly regarding interfaces and interactions between missions. This paper addresses the first steps that would be required to move towards an International Lunar Way Station. More broadly, it outlines issues that need to be addressed in any lunar exploration strategy in order to increase science and exploration return and to maximize efficiency in their accomplishment. Several countries are planning to send spacecraft to the Moon in the next ten years. The opportunities for coordination to increase return should not be missed. The proposed highest near term priority is pursuing mutually compatible orbiter relays and telecommunication standards on all upcoming orbiters that will lead to better gravity models and better data relay capabilities, both of which will be critical for maximizing the effectiveness and minimizing risk to future landers. The longer-range high priority is to increase international cooperation to enable human exploration of the solar system.

This is taken from the Planetary Society's International Lunar Way-Station: First document.

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