NASA outlines long-term goals for human presence in low earth orbit

Written by Copernical Team Thursday, 19 December 2024 07:16

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Los Angeles CA (SPX) Dec 17, 2024

NASA has finalized its comprehensive strategy for sustaining human presence in low Earth orbit (LEO), outlining a clear path to advance microgravity research, technology, and exploration for global benefit. The Low Earth Orbit Microgravity Strategy, developed with input from industry, academia, and international partners, marks a critical step as the agency prepares for the transition from the I

NASA outlines long-term goals for human presence in low earth orbit
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Dec 17, 2024

NASA has finalized its comprehensive strategy for sustaining human presence in low Earth orbit (LEO), outlining a clear path to advance microgravity research, technology, and exploration for global benefit. The Low Earth Orbit Microgravity Strategy, developed with input from industry, academia, and international partners, marks a critical step as the agency prepares for the transition from the International Space Station (ISS) to commercial space stations by 2030.

"As we near the retirement of the International Space Station in 2030, these objectives are a pivotal next step in solidifying U.S. leadership in space," said NASA Deputy Administrator Pam Melroy. "Our consultation with industry, academia, and international partners has helped refine a visionary roadmap for our future in low Earth orbit, which will be enabled by a continuous human presence. Together, we are ensuring that the benefits of exploring space continue to grow - advancing science, innovation, and opportunities for all, while preparing for humanity's next giant leap of exploring the Moon, Mars and beyond."

NASA began drafting its LEO goals in early 2024, collecting feedback from over 1,800 stakeholders, including government entities, private industry, and international agencies. The collaborative process resulted in 13 goals and 44 objectives across seven strategic areas: commercial infrastructure, operations, science, research for exploration, international cooperation, workforce and STEM engagement, and public outreach.

The microgravity environment of LEO serves as a key testing ground for technologies critical to deep space missions. By supporting extended human operations in LEO, NASA can test exploration systems, conduct human research, and maintain operational expertise vital for missions to the Moon and Mars.

"These finalized objectives represent a clear path forward as NASA transitions from the International Space Station to a new era of commercial space stations," said Robyn Gatens, director of the ISS and acting director of commercial spaceflight. "Low Earth orbit will remain a hub for scientific discovery, technological advancement, and international cooperation, while making strategic investments in a commercial space ecosystem that benefits not just NASA, but the entire space community."

NASA's vision emphasizes continuous human presence in LEO, ensuring regular long-duration missions and reliable access through diverse commercial providers. This approach mitigates risks for future human missions to Mars, preserves critical skills, and supports global partnerships while fostering scientific research and economic growth in space.

"Collaboration and consultation remain a cornerstone of our low Earth orbit strategy," said John Keefe, director of cross-agency strategy integration at NASA. "The objectives we've established will help NASA craft a work plan that ensures NASA is positioned to meet current and future needs and prioritizes the development of critical capabilities for low Earth orbit."

NASA's finalized goals and objectives for LEO are available here.