NASA’s Moon to Mars exploration program

NASA's plan, proposed in 2015, consists of three phases: Earth Reliant, Proving Grounds, and Earth Independent. The Earth Reliant phase involves using the ISS to research deep space technologies and develop the Orion spacecraft and SLS. The Proving Grounds phase focuses on building infrastructure in cislunar space, including the Lunar Gateway, to prepare for deep space operations. The Earth Independent phase aims to conduct missions to Mars and its moons, potentially using the Lunar Gateway and Deep Space Transport. The plan includes building a station in Mars' orbit, like the proposed Mars Base Camp, to facilitate crewed missions to the Martian surface.

What is the primary focus of the Earth Reliant phase?

• Building a base on the Moon

• Researching deep space technologies and human health

• Launching missions to Mars

• Developing a new space station

Which spacecraft is being developed during the Earth Reliant phase?

• Lunar Lander

• Orion spacecraft

• Mars Base Camp

• Deep Space Transport

What is the purpose of the Lunar Orbital Platform-Gateway in the Proving Grounds phase?

• To conduct operations in a deep space environment

• To serve as a launch site for Mars missions

• To replace the International Space Station

• To mine resources from the Moon

When is the Gateway space station expected to be completed?

• By 2030

• In the mid-2020s

• In the late 2020s

• By 2022

What is a potential feature of the Earth Independent phase?

• Developing a new space shuttle

• Launching a new satellite network

• Establishing a colony on the Moon

• Building a space station in Mars' orbit