International Space Exploration

Coordination Group

The Global 

Exploration 

Roadmap

September 2011
The Global

Exploration

Roadmap

Human and robotic exploration of the Moon, asteroids, and Mars will 

strengthen and enrich humanity’s future, bringing nations together in a 

common cause, revealing new knowledge, inspiring people, and stimulating 

technical and commercial innovation. As more nations undertake space 

exploration activities, they see the importance of partnering to achieve their 

objectives. Building on the historic flight of Yuri Gagarin on April 12, 1961, 

the first 50 years of human spaceflight have resulted in strong partnerships 

that have brought discoveries, innovations, and inspiration to all mankind. 

Discoveries we have made together have opened our eyes to the benefits 

of continuing to expand our reach. 

“The surface of the Earth is the shore of the cosmic ocean. 

From it we have learned most of what we know. 

Recently, we have waded a little out to sea, enough to dampen

our toes or, at most, wet our ankles.

The water seems inviting. The ocean calls.” 

 —Dr. Carl Sagan
What is the 

Global Exploration 

Roadmap?

Building on the vision for coordinated human and 

robotic exploration of our solar system established in 

The Global Exploration Strategy: the Framework for 

Coordination, released in May 2007, space agencies 

participating in the International Space Exploration 

Coordination Group (ISECG) are developing the 

Global Exploration Roadmap. The Global Exploration 

Roadmap reflects the international effort to define 

feasible and sustainable exploration pathways to the 

Moon, near-Earth asteroids, and Mars. Beginning with 

the International Space Station (ISS), this first iteration 

of the roadmap examines possible pathways in the 

next 25 years.

Agencies agree that human space exploration will 

be most successful as an international endeavor 

because there are many challenges to preparing for 

these missions and because of the significant social, 

intellectual, and economic benefits to people on Earth. 

This first version of the Global Exploration Roadmap 

represents a step in the international human space 

exploration roadmapping activity that allows agencies 

to be better informed as they prepare to play a part in 

the global effort. It will be updated over time to reflect 

evolving global consensus on exploration destinations 

and associated architectures.

By sharing early results of this work with the broader 

community, space agencies hope to generate 

innovative ideas and solutions for meeting the 

challenges ahead.

Daybreak over Gale Crater, Mars (Gale Crater was recently identified 

as the destination for the Mars Science Laboratory.)

Table of Contents

Executive Summary 1

Chapter 1. Introduction 7

Chapter 2. Common Goals and Objectives of Space Exploration 9

Chapter 3. Mapping the Journey: Long-Range Human Exploration Strategy 13

Chapter 4. Human Exploration Preparatory Activities 23

Chapter 5. Conclusion 33

Canada Germany

Russia

United States

United Kingdom

Ukraine

European Space Agency India

Italy France

Japan South Korea
The Global Exploration Strategy: the Framework for 

Coordination, released in May 2007 by 14 space agencies, 

presents a vision for globally coordinated human and robotic 

space exploration focused on solar system destinations 

where humans may someday live and work. It calls for 

sustainable human exploration of the Moon, near-Earth 

asteroids, and Mars. Although Mars is unquestionably the 

most intriguing destination for human missions currently 

within our grasp, and a human mission to Mars has been 

the driving long-term goal for the development of the Global 

Exploration Roadmap, there is much work to be done before 

the risks associated with such missions can be reduced to an 

acceptable level and the required technologies are matured 

to enable a sustainable approach. 

The Global Exploration Roadmap further advances the 

strategy by creating a framework for interagency discussions. 

This framework has three elements: (1) common goals and 

objectives, (2) long-range human exploration scenarios, and 

(3) coordination of exploration preparatory activities. By 

understanding the elements common to their exploration 

goals and objectives, and by collaborating to examine 

potential long-range exploration scenarios, agencies seek 

to inform near-term decisions affecting their exploration 

preparatory activities. 

Executive 

Summary

1
Common Goals and Objectives

The Global Exploration Roadmap is driven by a set of goals and supporting objectives that reflect commonality while 

respecting each individual agency’s goals and objectives. They demonstrate the rich potential for exploration of each 

of the target destinations, delivering benefits to all nations. The definitions of the goals and objectives listed below are 

the result of an iterative process and will reflect ongoing refinements as agency priorities evolve.

Human Space Exploration Scenarios: 

Optional Pathways in a Common Strategy

The common human exploration strategy begins with the ISS as the first important step toward Mars and human 

expansion into space. It recognizes that human missions to both asteroids and the Moon are also important destinations 

that contribute to preparing for a future human mission to Mars.

This first iteration of the roadmap identifies two feasible 

pathways for human missions after ISS: (1) Asteroid Next 

and (2) Moon Next. They differ primarily with regard to 

the sequence of sending humans to the Moon and asteroids, and each reflects a stepwise development and 

demonstration of the capabilities ultimately required 

for human exploration of Mars. Each pathway is elaborated by development of a representative mission scenario—a logical sequence of missions over a 25-year 

horizon—which is considered technically feasible and 

programmatically implementable. 

For each mission scenario, a conceptual architecture was 

considered that included design reference missions and 

notional element capabilities. Design reference missions 

are generally destination focused, yet they comprise capabilities that are reused or evolved from capabilities used at 

other destinations. 

To guide mission scenario development, agencies have 

reached consensus on principles that reflect common 

drivers. The six principles are listed below: 

1. Capability Driven Framework: Follow a phased/stepwise approach to multiple destinations.

2. Exploration Value: Generate public benefits and meet 

exploration objectives.

3. International Partnerships: Provide early and sustained 

opportunities for diverse partnerships.

4. Robustness: Provide for resilience to technical and programmatic challenges.

5. Affordability: Take into account budget constraints.

6. Human-Robotic Partnership: Maximize synergy 

between human and robotic missions.

Search for Life

Determine if life is or was present outside of Earth and understand the 

environments that support or supported it.

Extend Human Presence

Explore a variety of destinations beyond low-Earth orbit with a focus on 

continually increasing the number of individuals that can be supported at 

these destinations, the duration of time that individuals can remain at these 

destinations, and the level of self-sufficiency.

Develop Exploration Technologies and Capabilities

Develop the knowledge, capabilities, and infrastructure required to live and 

work at destinations beyond low-Earth orbit through development and testing 

of advanced technologies, reliable systems, and efficient operations concepts 

in an off-Earth environment. 

Perform Science to Support Human Exploration 

Reduce the risks and increase the productivity of future missions in our solar 

system by characterizing the effect of the space environment on human health 

and exploration systems. 

Stimulate Economic Expansion

Support or encourage provision of technology, systems, hardware, and services 

from commercial entities and create new markets based on space activities that 

will return economic, technological, and quality-of-life benefits to all humankind. 

Perform Space, Earth, and Applied Science 

Engage in science investigations of, and from, solar system destinations 

and conduct applied research in the unique environment at solar system 

destinations. 

Engage the Public in Exploration

Provide opportunities for the public to engage interactively in space exploration. 

Enhance Earth Safety

Enhance the safety of planet Earth by following collaborative pursuit of planetary 

defense and orbital debris management mechanisms. 

 Optional Pathways in a Common Strategy

Mars: Ultimate

Goal for All

Scenarios

LEO

and

ISS

Deep Space Habitat at 

Earth-Moon Lagrange Point1

Near-Term Focus on Guiding Capabilities,

Technologies, and Leveraging ISS 

Long-Term Focus is Discovery Driven

and Enhanced by Emerging Technologies 

Executive Summary

2 3
Mission Scenario: Asteroid Next 

Opportunities for Commercial or International Platforms

Robotic Exploration

Robotic Exploration

ISS Utilization and Capability Demonstration

Mission and Destinations

Key Enabling Capabilities

2011 2020 2028 2033

Low-Earth Orbit

Cis-Lunar Opportunities for Commercial or International Cis-Lunar Missions

Near-Earth Asteroid (NEAs)

Cis-Lunar Servicing and Deployment Deep Space Exploration

ISS Operations Step 1

Step 2

Crewed Visits to DSH

First Human Mission

to an NEA

Precursor to

First NEA

Exploration Test

Module

Precursor to

Second NEA

Second Human Mission

to an NEA

Future Human Mission

Commercial

Crew

Commercial Cargo

Next Gen

Spacecraft

NGSLV

MPCV

SLS/Heavy

Launch

Vehicle

Cryogenic

Propulsion

Stage

Deep Space

Habitat (DSH) Space Exploration

Vehicle

Advanced In-space

Propulsion

Crewed Visits to DSH

Increasing Duration

Crewed Flights to

Exploration Test Module

Moon

Robotic Exploration

Robotic Exploration

Future Human Mission Mars

Servicing and

Support Systems

Sample Return Opportunity Sample Return Opportunity

Mission Scenario: Moon Next 

Opportunities for Commercial or International Platforms

Robotic Exploration

Robotic Exploration

ISS Utilization and Capability Demonstration

Mission and Destinations

Key Enabling Capabilities

2011 2020 2030 2034

Low-Earth Orbit

Opportunities for Commercial or International

Cis-Lunar Missions

Opportunities for Commercial 

or International Lunar Missions

Cis-Lunar

Near-Earth Asteroids (NEAs)

Lunar Exploration Deep Space Exploration

ISS Operations Step 1

Step 2

Precursor to

First NEA

Future Human Mission

Commercial Cargo MPCV

Communication Assets

Lander Descent Stage

Lander Ascent Stage Deep Space 

 Habitat (DSH)

Lunar Surface

Elements

1-Metric Ton

Cargo Lander Space Exploration

Vehicle

SLS/Heavy

Launch

Vehicle

Moon

Robotic Exploration

Small-Scale, Human-Scale, Human-Enabled

NGSLV

Sample Return Opportunity Sample Return Opportunity

Crewed Visits to DSH

Human Mission

to an NEA

Robotic Exploration

Mars

Servicing and

Support Systems Cryogenic

Propulsion

Stage

Exploration Test

Module

Crewed Flights to

Exploration Test Module

Commercial

Crew

Next Gen

Spacecraft

Two notional mission scenarios have been defined to guide the exploration planning activity. The mission scenarios enable 

collaborative work in defining the missions and capabilities needed to realize the goals and objectives guiding exploration 

of each destination. 

Executive Summary

4 5

Executive Summary
Analogue Activities

Testing in a relevant environment allows refinement of 

system designs and mission concepts, helping prepare for 

exploration beyond low-Earth orbit. Terrestrial analogue 

activities also provide an important opportunity for pub-

lic engagement in a setting that brings together students, 

astronauts, scientists, and engineers.

Conclusion

This first iteration of the Global Exploration Roadmap 

shows that agencies have begun collaboratively working 

on long-range exploration mission scenarios. Two such 

notional scenarios have been elaborated and will further 

guide international discussion. The roadmap shows that 

agencies are looking for near-term opportunities to coordinate and cooperate that represent concrete steps toward 

enabling the future of human space exploration across the 

solar system. 

The following key observations are made to assist in 

this effort:

1. Recognize that interdependency is essential and take 

steps to successfully implement it. 

2. Realize additional opportunities for using the ISS.

3. Increase opportunities for enhancing the human-robotic 

science partnership. 

4. Pursue opportunities for leveraging investments that 

advance critical exploration technologies.

The current global economic climate creates a challenge in 

planning for space exploration. Yet, it is important to start 

planning now. First, collaborative work on exploration mis-

sion scenarios will allow us to inform decisions made today 

regarding activities such as exploration technologies and use 

of the ISS. Second, the retirement of the U.S. Space Shuttle 

and the completion of the ISS assembly make available criti-

cal skills in a high-performing aerospace workforce. Focus-

ing this global workforce will enable a smooth transition 

to the next destination beyond low-Earth orbit for human 

spaceflight. 

Human Exploration 

Preparatory Activities

Across the globe, engineers and scientists are working on 

many of the essential preparatory activities necessary to 

extend human presence into space and explore the planet 

Mars. By developing a common roadmap, agencies hope to 

coordinate their preparatory investments in ways that maxi-

mize return on investments and enable earlier realization of 

their goals and objectives.

Significant activities are underway in the following 

areas, each presenting opportunities for coordination 

and cooperation. 

Use of the ISS for Exploration 

The recent decision by ISS partners to extend the life of 

the ISS until at least 2020 ensures that ISS can be effec-

tively used to prepare for exploration, both by ISS partner 

agencies as well as through new partnerships with nations 

who are preparing exploration roles for themselves. 

Robotic Missions 

Robotic missions have always served as the precursors to 

human exploration missions. Precursor robotic missions are 

essential to ensure human health, safety, and the success 

of human missions and ensure maximum return on the 

investments required for subsequent human exploration. 

Advanced Technology Development 

No one agency can invest robustly in all the needed technol-

ogy areas that represent key challenges for executing human 

missions beyond low-Earth orbit. Appropriately leveraging 

global investments in technology development and demon-

stration is expected to accelerate the availability of critical 

capabilities needed for human exploration missions.

Development of New Space Systems and Infrastructure

Human exploration beyond low-Earth orbit will require a 

new generation of capabilities and systems, incorporating 

technologies still to be discovered. They will be derived 

from and build on experience from existing competencies 

and lessons learned. 

Chapter 1.

Introduction

The Global Exploration Strategy: the Framework for 

Coordination, released in May 2007 by 14 space agencies, 

presented a vision for globally coordinated human and 

robotic space exploration focused on solar system 

destinations where humans may someday live and work. 

In this vision, human exploration of the Moon, near-Earth 

asteroids, and Mars is preceded by robotic explorers that 

reveal many of their secrets, characterize their environments, 

and identify risks and potential resources. Human exploration 

follows in a manner that is sustainable and allows agencies 

to meet their goals and objectives.

6

7
From Research to Exploration to Utilization

Achieving the vision of sustainable human space exploration, including human missions to Mars, requires political support and resources over an extended period of 

time. It will also require the level of international commitment that has maintained the ISS partnership over the 

last 25 years. The success of the ISS Program, one of the 

most advanced international engineering achievements 

to date, demonstrates what is possible when space-faring 

nations collaborate and pursue a shared strategy.

The need to make human spaceflight more affordable will 

drive changes in the way we develop and operate exploration systems. Innovations in research and technology are 

essential. Solutions to the challenges of safe and sustainable human spaceflight also improve life on Earth, and as 

we tackle the challenges of sending humans further and 

faster into space, our investment will result in additional 

innovations benefiting life on Earth. 

Exploration of space initiated more than 50 years ago has 

enabled successful commercial activities in Earth orbit 

mainly in communication, navigation, and Earth observation satellites. In recent years, companies have started to 

invest in providing commercial space exploration services 

in response to government demands or simply to offer a 

new service to the public.

Utilization of low-Earth orbit for human exploration—

once the strategic domain of the few—will soon be available to many on Earth through a multitude of international 

commercial service providers. This is important because 

the extension of human presence beyond Earth orbit 

depends on successful commercial access for humans 

in low-Earth orbit. 

The Global Exploration Roadmap strategy recognizes 

that sustainable exploration must actively enable creation 

of new markets and commerce, once governments have 

led the way. Just as we have established Earth orbit as an 

important economic sphere, so will we eventually strive 

to do the same at future exploration destinations.

Human exploration of the surface of Mars is our driving 

long-term goal and defines the most complex challenges 

that must be overcome. The pathway to Mars begins with 

the ISS, an important step toward human expansion into 

space. It includes exploring the Moon and some nearEarth asteroids, demonstrating innovative technologies, 

mastering capabilities, revealing new knowledge, stimulating economic growth and inspiring future engineers 

and scientists. Decisions regarding destination sequencing will not be made by ISECG but will follow national 

policy decisions and international consultation at multiple 

levels—informed by ISECG’s work to collaboratively 

advance exploration architectures and mission designs.

Past studies of many agencies conclude that the Moon is 

the most suitable next step. Just 3 days from Earth, the 

Moon is seen as an ideal location to prepare people for 

learning how to live and work on other planetary surfaces. 

As a repository of 4-billion years of solar system history, 

it is also of interest to the science community. Alternatively, pursuing the “Asteroid Next” pathway aggressively 

drives advancements in deep space exploration technologies and capabilities such as advanced propulsion or habitation systems. As relics of the solar system formation, 

near-Earth asteroids are worthy of further study and take 

a major step toward readiness for Mars missions. 

The current global economic climate creates a challenge in 

planning for space exploration. Yet, it is important to start 

planning now for several reasons. First, collaborative work 

on exploration mission scenarios will allow us to inform 

decisions made today regarding exploration technologies 

and ISS activities. Second, the retirement of the U.S. Space 

Shuttle and the completion of ISS assembly make available 

critical skills in a high-performing aerospace workforce. 

By collaboratively working on technically feasible and 

programmatically implementable long-range scenarios 

and looking for near-term opportunities to coordinate and 

cooperate, we take concrete steps toward enabling the 

future of human space exploration across the solar system.

Chapter 2.

Common Goals 

and Objectives of 

Space Exploration

Why shall we explore space? Development of a Global 

Exploration Roadmap should be based on a clear 

understanding of the outcomes expected by participating 

agencies. It is important that mission scenarios reflect 

what space agencies want to accomplish, as articulated 

by specific goals and supporting objectives of space 

exploration.

8 9
Key Supporting Objectives

10 11

Chapter 2. Common Goals and Objectives of Space Exploration

The Global Exploration Roadmap is driven by a set of 

common space exploration goals and supporting objectives defined collectively by participating space agencies. 

Some goals and objectives apply uniformly to all destinations in the Global Exploration Roadmap while others do 

not. For example, the “Search for Life” goal is central to 

the exploration of Mars but not a driver for the exploration of the Moon. The formulation of goals and objectives 

is an iterative process that must reflect ongoing refinement 

as agency priorities evolve.

The common goals are described below, and the supporting 

objectives are listed in the table that follows:

•	 Search for Life. Determine if life is or was present 

outside of Earth and understand the environments that 

support or supported it. The search for life is a central 

goal of space exploration. Pursuing this goal continues the cultural quest of humankind to determine 

whether we are alone in the universe and answers 

deeply rooted questions about our origin and evolution. The question of whether life exists beyond Earth 

has great philosophical and scientific significance.

•	 Extend Human Presence. Explore a variety of destinations beyond low-Earth orbit with a focus on continually increasing the number of individuals that can 

be supported at these destinations, the duration of time 

that individuals can remain at these destinations, and 

the level of self-sufficiency. Extending and sustaining human presence beyond low-Earth orbit is another 

central goal of space exploration. This enables humankind to live and work in space, to harness solar system 

resources for use in space and on Earth, and eventually 

to settle on other planets. Pursuing this goal expands 

the frontiers of humanity, opens doors to future utilization of space, and reshapes how we think of ourselves 

and our place in the universe.

•	 Develop Exploration Technologies and Capabilities. 

Develop the knowledge, capabilities, and infrastructure required to live and work at destinations beyond 

low-Earth orbit through development and testing of 

advanced technologies, reliable systems, and efficient 

operations concepts in an off-Earth environment. This 

goal establishes the fundamental capabilities to extend 

and sustain space exploration beyond low-Earth orbit. 

Pursuing this goal also yields spinoff products, new 

materials and manufacturing processes, and various 

technologies that can address major global challenges.

•	 Perform Science to Support Human Exploration. 

Reduce the risks and increase the productivity of 

future missions in our solar system by characterizing 

the effect of the space environment on human health 

and exploration systems. This is essential for human 

exploration and will enable a human presence across 

the solar system. Pursuing this goal also yields innovation for Earth-based health care.

•	 Stimulate Economic Expansion. Support or encourage provision of technology, systems, hardware, and 

services from commercial entities and create new 

markets based on space activities that will return economic, technological, and quality-of-life benefits to all 

humankind. Pursuing this goal generates new industries, spurs innovation in fields such as robotics and 

energy systems, and creates high-technology employment opportunities. As space activities evolve from 

government research to exploration to utilization, new 

economic possibilities may extend beyond low-Earth 

orbit to the Moon and elsewhere in the solar system.

Duck Bay at Victoria Crater, Mars.

Goal Objective

Search for Life Find evidence of past or present life.

Explore the past or present potential of solar system destinations to sustain life.

Extend Human Presence Explore new destinations.

Increase opportunities for astronauts from all partner countries to engage in exploration.

Increase the self-sufficiency of humans in space.

Develop Exploration Technologies and Capabilities Test countermeasures and techniques to maintain crew health and performance, and 

radiation mitigation technologies and strategies.

Demonstrate and test power generation and storage systems.

Develop and test high-performance mobility, extravehicular activity, life support, and 

habitation capabilities.

Demonstrate the use of robots to explore autonomously and to supplement astronauts’ 

exploration activities.

Develop and validate tools, technologies, and systems that extract, process, and utilize 

resources to enable exploration missions.

Demonstrate launch and advanced in-space propulsion capabilities.

Develop thermal management systems, including cryogenic fluid management capabilities.

Learn how to best perform basic working tasks and develop protocols for operations.

Test and demonstrate advanced entry-decent-landing technologies.

Test automated rendezvous and docking, on-orbit assembly, and satellite servicing 

capabilities.

Develop and demonstrate technologies to support scientific investigation.

Develop space communications and navigation capabilities.

•	 Perform Space, Earth, and Applied Science. Engage 

in science investigations of, and from, solar system 

destinations, and conduct applied research in the 

unique environment at solar system destinations. 

Pursuing this goal delivers valuable knowledge to 

society and deepens understanding of our home planet.

•	 Engage the Public in Exploration. Provide opportunities for the public to engage interactively in space 

exploration. Space agencies have a responsibility 

to return value directly to the public that supports 

them by disseminating knowledge and sharing in the 

excitement of discovery. A participatory approach to 

exploration helps provide this value and maximizes 

opportunities to leverage public contributions to 

exploration missions. Pursuing this goal also creates 

opportunities to educate and inspire citizens, particularly young people, and to contribute to the cultural 

development of communities.

•	 Enhance Earth Safety. Enhance the safety of planet 

Earth by following collaborative pursuit of planetary 

defense and orbital debris management mechanisms. 

Pursuing this goal lowers the risk of unforeseen future 

catastrophic asteroid collisions, as well as damage to 

current space assets in Earth orbit.

(continued)
Chapter 3.

Mapping the Journey:

Long-Range Human

Exploration Strategy

Space agencies participating in ISECG have defined a longrange human exploration strategy that begins with the ISS 

and expands human presence throughout the solar system, 

leading to human missions to explore the surface of Mars. 

Unquestionably, sending humans to Mars in a manner 

that is sustainable over time will be the most challenging 

and rewarding objective of human space exploration in 

the foreseeable future. These missions will require new 

technologies and significant advances in the capabilities, 

systems, and infrastructure we have today. 

Mars Mission Major Challenges:

•	 Radiation protection and measurement techniques

•	 Subsystem reliability and in-space repair capability

•	 Entry, descent, and landing of large payloads

•	 Utilization of local resources, such as oxygen, water,

and methane

•	 Advanced in-space propulsion

•	 Long-term storage and management of cryogenic fluids

(H2, O2, CH4, Xe)

•	 Surface mobility, including routine extravehicular activity

capability

Transforming this strategy into a roadmap involves 

identification of feasible pathways and the definition of 

mission scenarios that build upon capabilities we have today, 

drive technology development, and enable scientific return. 

Key Supporting Objectives (continued)

NASA astronaut Ken Ham (left) and JAXA astronaut Soichi Noguchi (right) 

are pictured on the forward flight deck of Space Shuttle Atlantis while 

docked with the ISS.

NASA astronauts Nicole Stott (left) and Cady Coleman (right) pose for 

a photo in the Cupola of the ISS.

12

Goal Objective

Perform Science to Support Human Exploration Evaluate human health in the space environment.

Monitor and predict radiation in the space environment.

Characterize the geology, topography, and conditions at destinations.

Characterize available resources at destinations.

Evaluate the impacts of the surface, near-surface, and atmospheric environment on 

exploration systems.

Stimulate Economic Expansion Provide opportunities for the integration of commercial transportation elements into the 

exploration architecture.

Provide opportunities for the integration of commercial surface and orbital elements into 

the exploration architecture.

Evaluate potential for commercial goods and services at destinations, including markets 

for discovered resources.

Perform Space, Earth, and Applied Science Perform Earth observation, heliophysics, and astrophysics from space.

Gather scientific knowledge of destinations.

Gather scientific knowledge of solar system evolution.

Perform applied research.

Engage the Public in Exploration Use interactive hands-on communications tools to provide virtual experiences using real 

and live exploration data.

Enlist amateur/citizen scientists to contribute to exploration-related knowledge collection.

Enhance Earth Safety Characterize potential near-Earth asteroid collision threats.

Test techniques to mitigate the risk of asteroid collisions with Earth.

Manage orbital debris around the Earth.

Many agencies are still developing their objectives 

and will be for some time to come, so the initial set is 

expected to evolve as national objectives do, and as discussions on commonality proceed. It will be important 

to establish an exploration strategy that allows the sustainment and growth of each agency’s aspirations for 

human spaceflight. An early dialog that builds an understanding of agency goals and objectives will contribute 

to the definition of a shared strategy and enable each 

agency to communicate their reasons for being part 

of the international effort.

As space agencies continue to refine their goals and 

objectives, they will share them, look for commonality, and ensure that the Global Exploration Roadmap 

reflects that commonality.

13
Feasible pathways consider exploration benefits and balance risk, cost, and overall technology readiness. Studies 

performed by individual agencies and within ISECG 

Other pathways, such as one that sets 

humans on the surface of Mars as the “next 

step,” were evaluated based on work done 

within ISECG or by participating agencies. 

Typically, they were not considered feasible because of risk, cost, and technology 

readiness concerns or they did not sustain a 

cadence of missions considered essential to 

deliver value to stakeholders.

From Strategy to Roadmap: 

Exploration Pathways

As an important step toward human expansion into space, 

the ISS will allow agencies to perform research, technology demonstrations, and other activities on board this 

international laboratory. In addition, the ISS plays a key 

role in securing the economic viability of human exploration of low-Earth orbit by aggressively courting new 

research communities, addressing global challenges, simplifying operations concepts, and increasing the cost efficiency and quality of cargo and crew logistic services.

This first iteration of the roadmap identifies two feasible 

pathways for human missions after ISS: (1) Asteroid Next 

and (2) Moon Next. They differ primarily with regard to 

the sequence of sending humans to the Moon and asteroids, and each reflects a stepwise development and demonstration of the capabilities ultimately required for human 

exploration of Mars. Each pathway is elaborated by development of a representative mission scenario—a logical 

sequence of missions over a 25-year horizon—which 

is considered technically feasible and programmatically 

implementable. 

 Optional Pathways in a Common Strategy

Mars: Ultimate

Goal for All

Scenarios

LEO

and

ISS

Deep Space Habitat at 

Earth-Moon Lagrange Point1

Near-Term Focus on Guiding Capabilities,

Technologies, and Leveraging ISS 

Long-Term Focus is Discovery Driven

and Enhanced by Emerging Technologies 

Humans interacting with a near-Earth asteroid, learning about the promise 

and risks of these primordial bodies.

Mars Moon Near-Earth Asteroid LaGrange Points/Cis-Lunar 

Space

Key Objectives

Search for life.

Advance understanding 

of planetary evolution.

Learn to live on other planetary 

surfaces.

Characterize availability of 

water and other resources.

Test technologies and 

capabilities for human space 

exploration.

Advance understanding of solar 

system evolution.

Utilize the Moon’s unique 

importance to engage the 

public.

Demonstrate innovative deep 

space exploration technologies 

and capabilities.

Advance understanding of 

these primitive bodies in solar 

system evolution and origin 

of life.

Test methods to defend the 

Earth from risk of collisions 

with near-Earth asteroids.

Expand capability of humans to 

operate in this strategic region 

beyond low-Earth orbit.

Demonstrate innovative deep 

space exploration technologies 

and capabilities.

Challenges

Significant technology 

advancements are essential for 

safe and affordable missions.

Radiation risk and mitigation 

techniques must be better 

understood.

Highly reliable space systems 

and infrastructure are needed.

Demonstrated ability to use 

local resources is essential.

Expenses associated with 

extended surface activities.

Need to better understand 

and characterize the asteroid 

population.

Technology advancements 

are needed before missions 

to asteroids.

Understanding the benefit of 

human presence vs. robots.

Small pressurized rovers on the moon will increase crew mobility and can 

be reused at different landing sites. 

Summary of the Destination Assessment Activity

Wopmay Rock, Mars.

have identified key objectives and challenges that have 

influenced the definition of feasible pathways. 

Cape St. Vincent Promontory, Mars.

14 15

Chapter 3. Mapping the Journey: Long-Range Human Exploration Strategy
Principles Driving the 

Mission Scenarios:

•	 Capability Driven Framework: Follow a phased/stepwise

approach to multiple destinations.

•	 Exploration Value: Generate public benefits and meet

exploration objectives.

•	 International Partnerships: Provide early and sustained

opportunities for diverse partners.

•	 Robustness: Provide for resilience to technical and

programmatic challenges.

•	 Affordability: Take into account budget constraints.

•	 Human-Robotic Partnership: Maximize synergy between

human and robotic missions. 

Introduction to Mission Scenarios Design Reference Missions and Capabilities

For each mission scenario, a conceptual architecture 

was considered that included design reference missions 

and notional element capabilities. While design reference missions are generally destination focused, they 

will comprise capabilities that are reused or evolved from 

capabilities used at other destinations. In this way, an 

evolutionary approach to developing a robust set of capabilities to sustainably explore our solar system is defined. 

A graphical representation of design reference missions 

contained early in the scenarios and the key capabilities 

associated with them is on the following page. 

To guide mission scenario development, agencies have 

reached consensus on principles, such as affordability and 

value to stakeholders (see right). These principles have 

been informed by ISS lessons learned, but represent other 

considerations important to participating agencies. The 

selected mission scenarios are indicative of what can be 

done within the parameters of these agreed principles. 

Other mission scenarios within the identified pathways are 

possible. For this reason, the common principles should 

serve as a basis for exploring variations of the scenarios 

for meeting our goals and objectives. 

The work reflected in the Roadmap is conceptual and 

does not contain detailed cost, schedule, or risk analysis 

that would be necessary elements of program formulation. 

Specific mission plans and fully defined architectures will 

be developed by partner agencies as they advance specific 

exploration initiatives.

The first human-scale robot on the Moon, demonstrating technologies 

to explore the surface of Mars.

“Asteroid Next” Design Reference Missions

Deep Space Habitat Deployment

Robotic Precursor Mission

Crew-to-Deep Space Habitat in E-M L1—Short Stay

Crew-to-Deep Space Habitat in E-M L1—Long Stay

Crewed Near-Earth Asteroid Mission using Advanced Propulsion

“Moon Next” Design Reference Missions

Robotic Precursor Mission

Crew-to-Low Lunar Orbit

Crew-to-Lunar Surface—7-day Sortie Mission

Crew-to-Lunar Surface—28-day Extended Stay Mission

Cargo-to-Lunar Surface (small)

Cargo-to-Lunar Surface (large)

Common Capabilities

NASA Space Launch System 

(SLS)

Launch vehicle that has the capability to deliver cargo or crew from Earth to orbit.

NASA Multi-purpose Crew 

Vehicle (MPCV)

Crew vehicle capable of delivering a crew to exploration destination and back to Earth.

Roscosmos Next Generation

Space Launch Vehicle (NGSLV)

Launch vehicle that has the capability to deliver cargo or crew from Earth to orbit.

Roscosmos Next Generation 

Spacecraft

Crew vehicle capable of delivering a crew to exploration destination and back to Earth.

Cryogenic Propulsion Stage 

(CPS)

In-space stage that provides delta V to architecture elements using traditional chemical rocket 

engines, cryogens, and storables and may include the capability for propellant transfer.

Servicing Support Systems Systems and tools to enable crew and robots to service in-space systems and assemble larger 

capabilities, including extravehicular activity suits.

Commercial Crew Commercial system capable of taking crew to low-Earth orbit.

Commercial Cargo Commercial system capable of taking cargo to low-Earth orbit.

Unique Capabilities

Deep Space 

Habitat

An in-space habitat with relevant 

subsystems for the purpose of advancing capabilities and systems requiring 

access to a deep space environment.

Advanced 

In-Space 

Propulsion 

Stage

In-space stage using nontraditional 

propulsion technologies, such as highpower electric and nuclear propulsion.

In-Space 

Destinations 

Systems

These systems have the capabilities 

that enable humans to effectively 

complete in-space destination 

objectives by enabling access.

Unique Capabilities

Lunar Cargo 

Descent 

Stage

System designed to land payload of up 

to 8-metric tons on the lunar surface.

Lunar Ascent 

Stage

Works in combination with the largest 

descent stage as a system for transporting crew to and from the surface 

of the Moon.

Surface 

Elements

These systems have the capabilities 

that enable humans to effectively 

complete surface destination objectives.

1-Metric Ton 

Cargo Lander

System designed to land up to 

1-metric ton on the lunar surface.

16 17

Chapter 3. Mapping the Journey: Long-Range Human Exploration Strategy

Near-Earth asteroids require true deep space missions, free of Earth’s 

magnetosphere (deep space radiation environment), with only limited 

opportunities for abort.
To Mars With Deep Space Asteroid Mission Scenario: Asteroid Next 

Missions as the Next Step

Opportunities for Commercial or International Platforms

Robotic Exploration

Robotic Exploration

ISS Utilization and Capability Demonstration

Mission and Destinations

Key Enabling Capabilities

2011 2020 2028 2033

Low-Earth Orbit

Cis-Lunar Opportunities for Commercial or International Cis-Lunar Missions

Near-Earth Asteroid (NEAs)

Cis-Lunar Servicing and Deployment Deep Space Exploration

ISS Operations Step 1

Step 2

Crewed Visits to DSH

First Human Mission

to an NEA

Precursor to

First NEA

Exploration Test

Module

Precursor to

Second NEA

Second Human Mission

to an NEA

Future Human Mission

Commercial

Crew

Commercial Cargo

Next Gen

Spacecraft

NGSLV

MPCV

SLS/Heavy

Launch

Vehicle

Cryogenic

Propulsion

Stage

Deep Space

Habitat (DSH) Space Exploration

Vehicle

Advanced In-space

Propulsion

Crewed Visits to DSH

Increasing Duration

Crewed Flights to

Exploration Test Module

Moon

Robotic Exploration

Robotic Exploration

Future Human Mission Mars

Servicing and

Support Systems

Sample Return Opportunity Sample Return Opportunity

This scenario pursues human exploration of near-Earth 

asteroids as the next destination. It offers the opportunity 

to demonstrate many of the capabilities necessary to send 

astronauts to Mars orbit and return them safely to the Earth. 

The mission scenario includes deployment of the deep space 

habitat in cis-lunar space to demonstrate the capabilities 

necessary for traveling and living in deep space. When hardware reliability and operational readiness are demonstrated, 

the deep space habitat will accompany other capabilities for 

the journey to an asteroid. 

Missions to asteroids will then allow us to learn more 

about these primordial objects and examine techniques 

and approaches that may one day serve for planetary 

defense purposes. 

The success of this scenario depends on the availability of 

suitable near-Earth asteroid human mission targets. Suitability includes such factors as achievable mission trajectories, 

acceptable physical characteristics for crewed operations, 

and scientific interest. Since only a small percentage of the 

total near-Earth asteroid population has been discovered 

and cataloged, identifying targets that provide flexibility in 

selection of crewed mission opportunities to achieve most 

objectives will be essential to the viability of this strategy 

as a pathway to eventual human missions to Mars.

This scenario develops the capabilities necessary

to demonstrate crewed missions in space for longer

durations at increased distances from Earth. Also 

demonstrated are critical capabilities, such as radiation 

protection and reliable life support systems, to support 

the longer duration trip times required to send astronauts 

to Mars orbit and return them safely to Earth. Successful 

human exploration of near-Earth asteroids will necessitate 

mastery of advanced propulsion technologies, which are 

essential for the safe and affordable exploration of Mars. 

Some agencies are studying human missions to the Martian 

moons, Phobos and Deimos. While the benefits provided 

by human missions must be understood, these missions 

may also provide the opportunity to demonstrate similar 

capabilities as those required for asteroid missions.

Evolutionary Strategy Demonstrating Technologies Needed for Mars Mission—Asteroid Next

ISS/LEO Cis-lunar Near-Earth Asteroids

•	Advancing in-space habitation capability

for long durations

•	Subsystem high reliability and commonality, repair at the lowest level

•	Advanced extravehicular activity and

robotics capabilities

•	Long-term storage and management

of cryogenic fluids

•	Simulation of Mars mission operational

concepts

•	In-space habitation for long durations in

the appropriate radiation environment

•	Radiation protection and measurement

techniques

•	Demonstration of beyond low-Earth orbit

re-entry speeds

•	Automated delivery and deployment of

systems 

•	Subsystem high reliability and commonality, repair at the lowest level—living without a supply chain

•	Long-term storage and management of

cryogenic fluids

•	Simulations of near-Earth asteroid mission

operational concepts

•	Demonstration of in-space habitation

capability for long durations

•	Demonstration of advanced in-space

propulsion systems

•	Long-term storage and management

of cryogenic fluids

•	Automated delivery and deployment

of systems 

•	Subsystem high reliability and commonality,

repair at the lowest level—living without a 

supply chain

•	Demonstration of Mars mission transportation

operational concepts

18 19

Chapter 3. Mapping the Journey: Long-Range Human Exploration Strategy

Key features of this mission scenario 

include the following:

•	 Targeted utilization of the ISS to advance exploration

capabilities

•	 Continued availability of low-Earth orbit access through

commercial/international service providers

•	 Opportunities to demonstrate human operations in cis-lunar

space, enabling future missions such as satellite servicing/

deployment

•	 The early deployment of the deep space habitat to EarthMoon Lagrange point 1 (EML 1), allowing demonstration of 

habitation and other critical systems in a deep space environment

•	 Progressively longer demonstrations of the ability to live

without a regular supply chain from Earth

•	 “Technology Pull” for technologies such as advanced propulsion and large scale in-space power generation required 

for human Mars missions

•	 Two asteroid missions, each with a crew of four. These are

preceded by robotic precursor missions that may visit multiple potential asteroid targets to characterize the risk and 

scientific priorities for each potential target

Image Credit: Ikeshita Akihiro

The Japan Aerospace Exploration 

Agency’s (JAXA’s) Hayabusa 2 

will gather data informing future 

proximity operations and station 

keeping, as well as information 

on the composition of the C-type 

asteroid, 1999 JU3.
To Mars With the Moon Mission Scenario: Moon Next 

as the Next Step

This scenario pursues human exploration of the Moon as 

the next destination. The Moon is seen as an ideal location 

to prepare people for learning how to live and work on 

other planetary surfaces. It also holds a wealth of information about the formation of the solar system, and its 

proximity and potential resources make it an important 

destination in expanding human presence. 

This scenario develops the capabilities necessary to

explore and begin to understand how to live selfsufficiently on a planetary surface. Also demonstrated 

are certain capabilities to support Mars mission landings, 

such as precision landing and hazard avoidance. Initial 

flights of the cargo lander not only demonstrate its reliability but deliver human-scale robotic systems that will 

conduct science and prepare for the human missions to 

follow. The period between the initial delivery of humanscale robotics and human missions will allow target 

technologies to be demonstrated and human/robotic operational techniques to be developed. When humans arrive, 

they will perform scientific investigations of the polar 

region, travelling enough terrain to master the technologies and techniques needed for Martian exploration. They 

will also aid the robotic assessment of availability and 

extractability of lunar volatiles.

After the lunar missions, exploration of near-Earth asteroids would follow. These missions require additional 

capabilities, yet are an important step in preparation 

of future missions to the Mars. In-space systems with 

increased ability to support longer missions at increased 

distances from Earth would be necessary to reaching Mars 

orbit and surface. 

Key features of this mission scenario 

include the following:

•	 Targeted utilization of the ISS to advance exploration

capabilities

•	 Continued availability of low-Earth orbit access through

commercial/international service providers

•	 A human exploration approach that builds on the large number

of lunar robotic missions planned during 2010–2020 to inform 

detailed scientific and in situ research utilization objectives

•	 Early deployment of medium cargo lander and large cargo

lander, sized to ultimately serve as part of a human landing 

system, along with the deployment of a human-scale rover 

chassis to advance robotic exploration capability

•	 Five extended-stay missions for a crew of four, exploration

of polar region with long-distance surface mobility while 

demonstrating capabilities needed for Mars exploration

•	 “Technology Pull” for technologies such as long distance

surface mobility, dust management and mitigation techniques, planetary surface habitation, precision landing, 

and, if desired, advanced surface power 

•	 A limited, yet adaptable, human lunar campaign that may

be extended to perform additional exploration tasks, if 

desired, or perhaps enable economically driven utilization 

in the long term, if warranted.

Opportunities for Commercial or International Platforms

Robotic Exploration

Robotic Exploration

ISS Utilization and Capability Demonstration

Mission and Destinations

Key Enabling Capabilities

2011 2020 2030 2034

Low-Earth Orbit

Opportunities for Commercial or International

Cis-Lunar Missions

Opportunities for Commercial 

or International Lunar Missions

Cis-Lunar

Near-Earth Asteroids (NEAs)

Lunar Exploration Deep Space Exploration

ISS Operations Step 1

Step 2

Precursor to

First NEA

Future Human Mission

Commercial Cargo MPCV

Communication Assets

Lander Descent Stage

Lander Ascent Stage Deep Space 

 Habitat (DSH)

Lunar Surface

Elements

1-Metric Ton

Cargo Lander Space Exploration

Vehicle

SLS/Heavy

Launch

Vehicle

Moon

Robotic Exploration

Small-Scale, Human-Scale, Human-Enabled

NGSLV

Sample Return Opportunity Sample Return Opportunity

Crewed Visits to DSH

Human Mission

to an NEA

Robotic Exploration

Mars

Servicing and

Support Systems Cryogenic

Propulsion

Stage

Exploration Test

Module

Crewed Flights to

Exploration Test Module

Commercial

Crew

Next Gen

Spacecraft

Evolutionary Strategy Demonstrating Technologies Needed for Mars Mission—Moon Next

ISS/LEO Moon Near-Earth Asteroids

•	In-space habitation for long durations

•	Subsystem high reliability and commonality, repair at the lowest level

•	Advanced extravehicular activity and

robotics capabilities

•	Long-term storage and management

of cryogenic fluids

•	Simulation of operational concepts

•	Surface habitation capabilities

•	Mars surface exploration scenarios, operations and techniques: long-range mobility,

automated predeployment

•	Capabilities and techniques for extended

operation in a dusty environment

•	Demonstration of beyond low-Earth orbit

re-entry speeds

•	Advanced surface power if available

•	Extreme surface mobility

•	Robust, routine extravehicular activity

capability

•	Precision landing and hazard avoidance

•	Demonstration of in-space habitation

capability for long durations

•	Demonstration of advanced in-space

propulsion systems

•	Long-term storage and management

of cryogenic fluids

•	Automated delivery and deployment

of systems 

•	Subsystem high reliability and commonality,

repair at the lowest level—living without a 

supply chain

•	Demonstration of Mars mission transportation

operational concepts

Chandrayaan-1 mapped the chemical characteristics and three 

dimensional topography of the Moon and discovered water 

molecules in the polar regions of the Moon.

20 21

Chapter 3. Mapping the Journey: Long-Range Human Exploration Strategy
Observation

 Space agencies should take steps to define and 

manage the factors affecting interdependency 

at the architecture, mission, infrastructure and 

systems level, in order to enable a successful 

exploration initiative.

Further Steps in Defining 

Mission Scenarios Today

Subsequent iterations of the Global Exploration Roadmap will incorporate updates to these mission scenarios, 

reflecting updated agency policies and plans as well as 

consensus on innovative ideas and solutions proposed by 

the broader aerospace community. Ultimately, the roadmap will reflect the possible paths to the surface of Mars.

There are other near-term activities expected to influence 

the evolution of the mission scenarios. For example, lessons learned from the ISS Program1

, have guided early 

exploration planning activities. Recommendations such 

as the importance of considering dissimilar redundancy 

and defining standards and common interfaces to promote interoperability paves the way for future architecture 

and systems development. For example, the ISS partnership released the International Docking System Standard, 

which will allow future crew and cargo vehicles to dock 

or berth and service the ISS or any other space infrastructure that carries the standard interface. 

Space agencies have already initiated discussions on

common interfaces and standards such as the International Docking System Standard by the ISS partners.

It is vitally important that efforts like this continue.

In addition, partnering between agencies where each provides capabilities on the critical path to completion of 

mission objectives has become common as mission complexity increases and interagency relationships become 

A prototype of the NASA docking system that meets International Docking 

System Standards requirements undergoes dynamic testing at the NASA 

Johnson Space Center.

Chapter 4.

Human Exploration

Preparatory Activities

Across the globe, engineers and scientists are working on 

many of the essential preparatory activities necessary to 

extend human presence into space and explore the planet 

Mars. By developing a common roadmap, agencies hope to 

coordinate their preparatory activities in ways that maximize 

return on investments and enable realization of their goals 

and objectives.

Significant activities are underway in the following areas, 

each presenting opportunities for near-term coordination 

and cooperation. 

•	 Use of the ISS for exploration

•	 Robotic missions

•	 Advanced technology development

•	 Development of new space systems and infrastructure

•	 Analogue activities

stronger. This is true for both human and robotic exploration initiatives. Large multinational exploration missions 

will require agencies to accept and manage interdependency at different levels: architecture, mission, infrastructure, and systems. The level of interdependency required 

of human exploration will necessitate advances beyond 

our current experience and increase interoperability across 

the architecture.

22

 The ISS backdropped by the blackness of space and Earth’s horizon.

1 ISS Lessons Learned as applied to 

Exploration, July 22, 2009

23
24 25

Chapter 4. Human Exploration Preparatory Activities

Observation

 ISS plays an essential role in preparing for exploration. ISS partner agencies 

should establish and implement plans that create additional opportunities to 

advance capabilities, demonstrate technologies, and test operational protocols 

and techniques in a timeframe that ensures their readiness for beyond low-Earth 

orbit missions.

2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025

CO2 Removal CDRA

CO2

 Removal Vozduch

Amine Swing Bed Technology Demonstration

O2 Recovery From CO2 (Sabatier)

VCAM Demonstration

Environmental Management (TBD)

Real-time Particle Monitoring

Life Support System Demonstration (Air

and Water Revitalization—TBD)

Advanced Closed-Loop System (Air Revitalization)

ANITA-2 (Contamination Monitoring) 

Human Health and 

Performance Risk Mitigation

Highly Reliable Habitation 

and Life Support Systems

Demonstration of

Exploration Capabilities

Advanced Robotics

Advanced Communication

and Navigation

Operations Concepts 

and Technologies

Human Health and Behavioral Science—Over 160 Experiments 

Space Engineering and Technology Research

Inatable Habitat Demonstration

Advanced EVA Suit Demonstration

CSA Technology Demonstrations (TBD)

Exploration Technology Demonstration (TBD)

Advanced Robot System (TBD)

European Robotic Arm (ERA)

DTN Capability Demonstrations

Mars Testbed DTO

International Design Standard for Advanced Logistics

Mars Mission

Simulation

Robotic Refueling Mission

Robonaut

XNAV (Deep Space Navigation)

International Docking System Deployment

METERON Tele-Robotic Demonstration

With Columbus Communication Terminal 

Dextre Upgrade Mission

Canadarm 2, Dextre

Discrete Events

LEGEND

Roadmap: Use of ISS for Exploration

Use of ISS for Exploration

Essential Technology and Operations 

Demonstrations on ISS

Highly Reliable Habitation and Life Support Systems

Deep space exploration necessitates reducing our dependence on 

the supply chain of spares and consumables from Earth. Critical 

functions such as water recovery and management, air revitalization, and waste management must operate reliably and in a 

closed-loop manner.

Human Health and Performance

Understanding the risks to human health and performance, 

such as the effects of radiation and developing the capabilities 

to mitigate the risks is essential for keeping crews healthy and 

productive. In addition, advances in clinical real-time diagnostic 

capabilities will be needed to address health issues that arise 

during long missions.

Demonstration of Exploration Capabilities

ISS provides a unique space and operational environment to demonstrate reliability and key performance parameters of capabilities 

such as inflatable habitats, next generation universal docking systems, and robotic systems.

Advanced Communication and Space Internetworking 

Capabilities

The ISS will be configured to serve as a testbed for advanced 

communications and networking technologies, such as extension 

of the Internet throughout the solar system. Key to this will be to 

determine how to deal with the long time delays and communications disruptions inherent in deep space communication. Several 

disruptive tolerant networking nodes will be established within 

the ISS.

Operations Concepts and Techniques

The ISS provides the opportunity to simulate autonomous crew 

operations and other modes of operation consistent with Mars 

mission challenges. It also provides the high-fidelity environment to test alternative concepts of systems failure management, 

advanced diagnostic and repair techniques.

Cosmonaut Gennady Padalka performs a musculoskeletal 

ultrasound examination on crewmember Mike Fincke. 

Ultrasound use on the ISS has pioneered procedures for 

immediate diagnosis of injuries and other medical conditions, providing money-saving advancements in the practice 

of clinical and telemedicine.

STS-133 Flyaround of ISS. 

The ISS plays a key role in advancing the capabilities, 

technologies, and research needed for exploration beyond 

low-Earth orbit. Since the first element was deployed, 

13 years ago, the ISS has advanced the state of the art 

through numerous demonstrations and investigations in 

critical areas. As shown at the right, research and technology development in critical areas such as habitation systems and human health research will enable reducing risks 

of long-duration missions. Demonstration of exploration 

technologies, including advance robotics and communication technologies will inform exploration systems and 

infrastructure definition.

There are additional opportunities for using the ISS 

to prepare for exploration. The recent decision by ISS 

partners to extend the life of the ISS until at least 2020 

ensures these opportunities can be realized. While the 

additional activities are not firmly funded within ISS partner agencies yet, they represent exploration priority areas. 

In coordination with the ISECG, the ISS Multilateral 

Coordination Board has formed a team to study possible 

technology collaboration initiatives based on the ISECG 

mission scenarios. These technology demonstrations on 

the station will support implementation of missions to 

asteroids, the Moon, and Mars. It should also be noted 

that the ISS partnership is interested in making access 

to the ISS available to non-ISS partner nations who are 

preparing exploration roles for themselves.

Many technologies initially demonstrated on ISS may 

benefit from integration into automated or free-flying 

platforms in the ISS vicinity. For example, advanced electric propulsion systems, inflatable habitation modules, 

and advanced life support systems can benefit from freeflyers that allow demonstration of standalone capabilities, 

exploration interfaces, or environmental conditions.

This roadmap indicates work ongoing 

or planned in the areas where essential 

advancements are needed, and the 

ISS provides the best opportunity to 

demonstrate them.
26 27

Chapter 4. Human Exploration Preparatory Activities

Planned Robotic Missions

Robotic Missions: An Invaluable 

Contribution to Human Exploration

Robotic missions have always served as the precursors to 

human exploration missions. Starting with Project Apollo, 

precursor robotic missions such as Rover, Surveyor, and 

Lunar Orbiter defined the boundary conditions and environments necessary to inform future human exploration 

of the Moon. These robotics missions identified potential 

hazards and characterized areas of the lunar surface for 

subsequent human exploration and scientific investigation. Similarly, several robotic missions have been sent 

to Mars in the recent years and these have consisted of 

remote sensing orbital spacecraft, landers, and exploration rovers. Much like the robotic missions to the Moon, 

these missions have obtained critical data on the Martian 

surface and atmospheric environment that will guide the 

development and operational concepts of exploration 

systems.

Robotic missions planned in the decade from 2010 to 

2020 will make important contributions to the body of 

knowledge of the Moon, asteroids, Mars and its moons 

and enable maximum return on the investments required 

for subsequent human mission. In addition, continued 

robotic exploration in conjunction with future human 

activities complements both the expansion of humanity 

beyond low-Earth orbit and the scientific understanding 

of the Universe.

Whether robotic mission formulation is primarily for 

scientific investigation or human exploration, there are 

opportunities to significantly increase the return to each 

community. The new U.S. Planetary Science Decadal 

Survey 20112 acknowledges this potential, encouraging 

the human exploration community to take into account 

significant scientific objectives, while recognizing that 

certain robotic science missions have great potential for 

filling knowledge gaps applicable to human missions.

Taking appropriate steps toward further coordination will 

increase the value of space exploration investment to our 

global stakeholder community.

This image taken by JAXA’s Selene mission provides lighting information 

about a potential human landing site.

2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025

GRAIL

Chandrayaan-2

Luna-Resurs

Selene-2 Selene-3

LADEE

MAVEN

Luna-Glob Lunar Lander

Lander/Rover

Orbiter

Sample Return

LRO

MO ‘01

Mars Express

2018 NASA-ESA Rover Mission

MELOS

2016 ESA-NASA ExoMars-TGO

MRO

MER

MSL (Surface)

Phobos-Grunt

NEOSSat

Hayabusa-2

Apophis

Osiris-Rex

Rosetta

DLR Mars Crawler concept.

Observation

 Steps should be taken by space agencies to explore the natural synergies 

between the objectives of robotic planetary science programs and those of 

the human-robotic exploration strategy. Coordinating future missions of mutual 

benefit should leverage common interests and create new opportunities for 

both communities.

Mars Exploration Rover begins exploring Mars.

2 Vision and Voyages for Planetary Science in the Decade 

2013–2022, National Research Council, March 7, 2001
28 29

Chapter 4. Human Exploration Preparatory Activities

Advanced Technologies

Appropriately leveraging global investments in technology development and demonstration is expected to accelerate the availability of critical capabilities needed for 

human exploration missions. No one agency can invest 

robustly in all the needed technology areas that represent 

key challenges for executing human missions beyond 

low-Earth orbit.

Technology development is strategic for all agencies 

since participation to international missions materializes 

mainly through technology contributions. Hence, technology development is a competitive area and agencies want 

to identify where they should focus their investments to 

maximize their contribution potential. To be successful, 

an international space exploration program should provide interesting and achievable opportunities for all 

participating agencies.

Therefore, agencies have begun sharing information 

on their investment areas. Categorizing the many key 

systems and technologies needed for space exploration 

facilitates information sharing among agencies. To start 

this process, the ISECG has used the technology area 

categorization defined by NASA’s Office of the Chief 

Technologist3.

The following table represents the first compilation of 

initial agency inputs to the ISECG process. It provides 

a good general overview of the challenges and can serve 

as an effective starting point for a more detailed mapping 

of needed technology advancements to ISECG mission 

scenarios as the technology discussions mature.

Marigold growth experiment using lunar soil simulant, Ukraine.

Robotics demonstration—DLR’s Justin greets the next generation.

3 Details can be found at http://www.nasa.gov/

pdf/501317main_STR-Overview-Final_rev3.pdf

Categorization of Proposed Technology Developments

Technology Area ASI CNES CSA DLR ESA JAXA KARI NASA NSAU Roscosmos UKSA

Launch Propulsion Systems (TA01) Enhance existing 

solid or liquid propulsion technologies by lower development and operations costs, improved performance, availability, and increased capability.

      

In-Space Propulsion Technologies (TA02) Advancements in conventional and exotic propulsion systems, 

improving thrust performance levels, increased payload 

mass, increased reliability, and lowering mass, volume, 

operational costs, and system complexity. 

      

Space Power and Energy Storage (TA03) Improvements to lower mass and volume, improve efficiency, 

enable wide temperature operational range and extreme 

radiation environment over current state-of-the-art space 

photovoltaic systems, fuel cells, and other electrical 

energy generation, distribution, and storage technologies. 

      

Robotics, Telerobotics and Autonomous 

Systems (TA04) Improvements in mobility, sensing and 

perception, manipulation, human-system interfaces, 

system autonomy are needed. Advancing and standardizing interfaces for autonomous rendezvous and docking 

capabilities will also be necessary to facilitate complex 

in-space assembly tasks. 

        

Communication and Navigation (TA05) Technology 

advancements to enable higher forward & return link 

communication data rates, improved navigation precision, 

minimizing latency, reduced mass, power, volume and 

life-cycle costs.

         

Human Health, Life Support and Habitation 

Systems (TA06) Improvements in reliability, maintainability, reduced mass and volume, advancements in 

biomedical countermeasures, and self-sufficiency with 

minimal logistics needs are essential for long-duration 

spaceflight missions. In addition, advancements in space 

radiation research is required, including advanced detection and shielding technologies.

         

Human Exploration Destination Systems (TA07) 

Technology advancements with In Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU) for fuel production, O2

, and other resources, 

improved mobility systems including surface, off-surface 

and extravehicular activity (EVA) and extravehicular robotics (EVR), advanced habitat systems, and advancements 

in sustainability & supportability technologies.

      

Science Instruments, Observatories and Sensor 

Systems (TA08) Technologies to advance current stateof-the-art for remote sensing instruments/sensors for 

scientific instruments, advanced scientific observatories, 

and in situ instruments/sensors of planetary samples.

          

DLR’s humanoid robot, Justin, demonstrates dexterous tool handling.
Artist’s concept of MPCV orbital operations.

30 31

Chapter 4. Human Exploration Preparatory Activities

Technology Area ASI CNES CSA DLR ESA JAXA KARI NASA NSAU Roscosmos UKSA

Entry, Descent, and Landing Systems (TA09) Humanclass capabilities for Mars entry, descent, and landing; 

technologies advancing low-mass high velocity Thermal 

Protection Systems (TPS), atmospheric drag devices, 

deep-throttling engines, landing gear, advanced sensing, 

aero-breaking, aero-capture, etc. Soft precision landing 

capability is also needed, e.g., for lunar missions.

        

Nanotechnology (TA10) New advanced materials for 

reducing vehicle & structural mass, improved functionality and durability of materials, and unique new capabilities such as enhanced power generation & storage, 

nanopropellants for propulsion, and nanofiltration for 

improved astronaut heath management.

 

Modeling, Simulation, Information Technology 

and Processing (TA11) Advancements in technologies associated with flight & ground computing, 

integrated s/w and h/w modeling systems, simulation, 

and information processing.

      

Materials, Structures, Mechanical Systems and 

Manufacturing (TA12) Technology advancements for 

lightweight structures providing radiation protection, 

multifunctional structural design and innovative manufacturing. In addition, new technologies associated 

with reducing design, manufacturing, certification 

and life-cycle costs.

      

Ground and Launch Systems Processing (TA13)

Technologies to optimize the life-cycle operational costs, 

increase reliability and mission availability, improve mission safety, reduce mission risk, reducing environmental 

impacts (i.e., green technologies).

  

Thermal Management Systems (TA14) Technology 

advancement for cryogenic systems performance & efficiency, effective thermal control systems for heat acquisition/transport/rejection, and increase robustness and 

reduce maintenance for thermal protection systems.

     

Observation

	Agencies participating in ISECG should look 

for potential cooperation opportunities related 

to advanced technologies in order to maximize 

the contribution of individual agency investments toward achievement of their common 

long-range strategy. 

Agencies are working on advancing many technologies 

needed for exploration. By sharing information on priorities and status, agencies are looking for coordination and 

future cooperation opportunities that:

• Identify cooperation opportunities for technology 

demonstration missions.

• Identify gap areas—where the investments are 

unlikely to provide the needed performance when 

required—and collaborate to fill these gaps. 

• Encourage competition to spur innovation and provide 

for a more robust overall architecture where different technologies and/or approaches perform critical 

functions.

• Create partnership opportunities related to usage 

of unique ground facilities or capabilities.

The goal is to create opportunities for cooperation, while 

recognizing agency autonomy in investment decisions.

A New Generation of Space 

Systems and Infrastructure

Human exploration beyond low-Earth orbit will require 

a new generation of capabilities. These future systems 

will incorporate technologies still to be discovered and 

build not only upon existing capabilities and competencies, but also on the lessons learned and experience 

gained from systems currently in operation. New systems 

must be particularly reliable and safe because interplanetary resupply missions from Earth cannot reach the crew 

on short notice and quick return to Earth is not possible. 

They also will benefit from enhanced interoperability 

and common interfaces and standards.

By working together on a long-range human exploration 

roadmap and considering the feasible scenarios contained 

within, we can reach conclusions regarding the necessity of certain fundamental building blocks. Systems and 

infrastructure elements that represent the key enabling 

capabilities of any exploration scenario include the 

following:

• Heavy-lift launch vehicle

• Crew transportation capability, capable of interplanetary return velocities

• In-space propulsion stage large enough to transport 

key systems and infrastructure to deep space.

• Servicing and support systems, including extravehicular activity and robotics systems

Activities that are currently underway include heavylift launch and crew transportation vehicles along with 

advanced extravehicular activity suits, where systems are 

in work by NASA and Roscosmos. Several agencies are 

investing in, or have significant competencies in, the area 

of advanced robotics systems. These first steps in implementing the capability-driven framework of the future 

Development model of the NASA Multi-purpose Crew Vehicle (MPCV).

exploration architecture provide near- and long-term 

opportunities for coordination and cooperation.

Looking forward, several space agencies are undertaking 

exploration architecture and system studies. These studies 

are mainly intended to inform individual decision making 

regarding exploration mission scenarios and agency roles.

By collaboratively working within ISECG to define

mission scenarios and the design reference missions

included within, agencies are able to make individual

decisions, which may align their studies with emerging

international consensus on exploration missions and

architectures.
Experimental rover testing in CNES Mars-yard.

32

Analogues to Simulate 

Extreme Environments 

of Space

A wide range of terrestrial analogues are in use today to 

simulate exploration missions, helping prepare for exploration beyond low-Earth orbit. These activities allow 

access to relevant analogue environments that enable 

testing of exploration technologies, conceptual systems 

and their interoperability, as well as concepts for operations and exploration. They also provide an important 

opportunity for public engagement in a setting that brings 

together students, astronauts, scientists and engineers, 

builds networking and strengthens partnerships. Analogue environments are also used to support research 

into human health and performance questions.

Agencies have begun to share information regarding 

analogue activities, identifying partnership opportunities that could increase the return on analogue mission 

investments.

There are individual and joint analogue activities

ongoing in several countries. Agencies are interested

in sharing their planning and lessons learned with the

idea of advancing global preparations for exploration

and finding partnerships.

Canadian Juno Tandem Rover carrying the Regolith Environment Science 

Oxygen & Lunar Volatile Extraction (RESOLVE) payload and the Tridar 

navigation unit at Mauna Kea deployment site in 2010.

Desert RATS (Arizona, USA).

Habitation Demo (Antarctica).

Chapter 5.

Conclusion

The Global Exploration Roadmap reflects international efforts 

to define pathways for human exploration of the solar system, 

with Mars as the ultimate goal within our sights. International 

cooperation will not only enable these challenging missions, 

but also increase the probability of their success. Two 

feasible pathways have been identified and, over time, 

updates to this roadmap will continue to reflect the efforts of 

participating agencies to collaboratively develop exploration 

mission scenarios and coordinate their preparatory activities.

33
Precursor

Precursor Precursor

Global Exploration Roadmap

2011 2020 2030

ISS Research & Technology Demonstrations

Enabling Exploration Capabilities

Moon

• Life Support, Human Health, Habitats

• Communication and Robotic Technologies

• International Docking System Standard

• Cryo Fluid Management and Transfer

Near-Earth Asteroids

Mars

Crew and Cargo Services

Commercial/International Low-Earth Orbit Platforms and Missions

Two Optional Pathways Guiding Investments

in Technology, Capabilities, and ISS Utilization

Driven by Discovery

and Emerging Technologies

Human Mission

to Mars Surface

Deep Space Habitat Advanced In-space Propulsion

Space Exploration Vehicle

Lander Ascent Stage Lander Descent Stage

Cryogenic Propulsion 

Stage

Space Launch System/

Heavy-Launch Vehicle

NGSLV

Roscosmos Next 

Generation Spacecraft

Multi-purpose Crew Vehicle

(MPCV)

Lunar Orbital Mission Human Lunar Return

First Human

Asteroid Mission

EML1 Mission

First Mission to Deep Space Habitat

Second Human

Asteroid Mission

Asteroid Next

Moon Next

Robotic Mission

LEGEND

Human Mission
36 37

Chapter 5. Conclusion

Conclusion Olympus Mons, Mars.

International coordination and cooperation expands the 

breadth of human space exploration beyond what any one 

nation may accomplish on its own and increases the probability of success of human and robotic space exploration 

initiatives. More importantly, it will enable the complex 

and challenging missions to the Moon, asteroids, and 

Mars. Achieving the vision of sustainable human space 

exploration, including human missions to Mars, requires 

political support and resources over an extended period 

of time. 

Continuation of the Global Exploration Roadmap and 

development of coordinated national efforts will require 

considerable dialog on how to align our policies and 

plans, as well as address the intergovernmental considerations that affect its successful implementation. Decisions 

regarding destination sequencing will not be made by 

the ISECG, but will follow national policy decisions and 

international consultation at multiple levels — informed 

by the ISECG’s work to collaboratively advance exploration architectures and mission designs. In the coming 

years, many nations will be developing their domestic 

policy and legal frameworks to most effectively implement sustainable human space exploration. 

Additionally, as noted in the Global Exploration Strategy 

Framework Document, for private industry to be confident about investing, it needs the certainty of a long-term 

commitment to space exploration, the opportunity to 

introduce its ideas into government thinking, and the rule 

of law. This means common understandings on such difficult issues as property rights and technology transfer. 

While this document does not create commitments of 

any kind on behalf of any of the participants, the GER is 

an important step in an evolving process toward achieving a global, strategic, coordinated, and comprehensive 

approach to space exploration.

The following is a summary of key observations made 

during the development of the Global Exploration Roadmap, presented in the order they appear in this document. 

They represent actions that agencies may take to further 

advance the Global Exploration Strategy:

1. Recognize that interdependency is essential and take 

steps to its successful implementation. 

2. Realize additional opportunities for using the ISS.

3. Increase opportunities for enhancing the human-robotic 

science partnership. 

4. Pursue opportunities for leveraging investments that 

advance critical exploration technologies.

This and subsequent iterations of the Global Exploration 

Roadmap should provide the technical basis for informing 

the necessary binding agreements between agencies and 

governments. The next iteration of the Global Exploration 

Roadmap is planned for 2012. Agencies hope to further 

elaborate the strategies presented in this document and 

identify additional opportunities for near-term partnerships that contribute to the realization of our journey to 

destinations beyond low-Earth orbit, including our driving 

goal of Mars. 

Space is indifferent to what we do; it has 

no feeling, no design, no interest in whether 

or not we grapple with it. But we cannot 

be indifferent to space, because the grand, 

slow march of intelligence has brought us, 

in our generation, to a point from which we 

can explore and understand and utilize it. 

To turn back now would be to deny our 

history, our capabilities.

~ James A. Michener
National Aeronautics and Space Administration

Headquarters

Washington, DC 20546-0001

www.nasa.gov

NP-2011-09-766-HQ

8-504986

The Global Exploration Roadmap is a nonbinding product 

of the International Space Exploration Coordination Group 

(ISECG). This first iteration will be followed by periodic 

updates as the content evolves and matures. ISECG was 

established by 14 space agencies to advance the Global 

Exploration Strategy by providing a forum where interested 

agencies can share their objectives and plans, and explore 

concepts that make use of synergies. ISECG is committed to 

the development of products that enable participating agencies 

to take concrete steps toward partnerships that reflect a globally 

coordinated exploration effort.

Publishing services provided by:

An electronic version of this document and more information can 

be found at: http://www.globalspaceexploration.org

International Space Exploration

Coordination Group