The Mars Design Reference Mission (DRM) is a concept developed by NASA to outline a hypothetical mission scenario for human exploration of Mars. The purpose of the DRM is to serve as a reference point and provide a framework for studying and planning future human missions to Mars. The DRM has evolved over time, with multiple iterations released to incorporate advancements in technology, scientific understanding, and operational considerations.

The evolution of the DRM reflects the progress made in our knowledge and capabilities related to Mars exploration. Each new version takes into account the lessons learned from previous missions, technological advancements, and updated scientific goals. The DRM serves as a tool to guide and inspire mission planning and serves as a basis for system architecture development, technology investments, and operational strategies.

The purpose of the DRM is multifold:

1. Feasibility Assessment: The DRM allows scientists and engineers to assess the feasibility of human missions to Mars. It helps identify technological gaps, challenges, and potential risks associated with various mission elements, including spacecraft design, propulsion systems, life support, crew health, and surface operations.
2. Concept Exploration: The DRM explores different mission scenarios, including mission durations, launch windows, crew size, entry, descent, and landing strategies, surface habitat design, resource utilization, and scientific objectives. It provides a basis for studying and comparing alternative mission architectures and strategies.
3. Technology Development: The DRM guides the development of technologies necessary for Mars exploration. It identifies areas where advancements are needed, such as propulsion systems, in-situ resource utilization (ISRU), radiation protection, and life support systems. These technology development efforts are aimed at making future Mars missions more achievable and sustainable.
4. International Collaboration: The DRM provides a framework for international collaboration and cooperation in Mars exploration. It serves as a common reference for sharing mission concepts, exchanging scientific data, and coordinating efforts among space agencies worldwide.
5. Public Engagement and Inspiration: The DRM captures the imagination of the public and serves as a source of inspiration for future generations. It helps to communicate the challenges and potential benefits of human space exploration, igniting interest and support for Mars missions.

It’s important to note that the DRM is a dynamic and evolving concept. As new technologies emerge, scientific knowledge expands, and operational considerations evolve, the DRM is updated to reflect the latest understanding and developments. The ultimate goal is to refine and shape a comprehensive plan for a human mission to Mars that is technically feasible, scientifically valuable, and safe for the crew.

2007 Study Objectives / Products

The 2007 study objectives and products related to the Mars Design Reference Architecture (DRA) were focused on updating NASA’s human Mars mission reference architecture and addressing various aspects of Mars exploration. Here are the main objectives and products of the 2007 study:

1. Update the Human Mars Mission Reference Architecture: The primary goal was to update the reference architecture for human missions to Mars. This involved defining long-term goals and objectives for human exploration missions, updating flight and surface systems for human missions, and incorporating any changes in the Constellation systems and other systems since the previous Mars DRM version (circa 1998). The study aimed to provide an updated framework for mission planning, including surface operations and infrastructure requirements.
2. Develop an Operational Concept: The study aimed to develop an operational concept for both human and robotic exploration of Mars. This concept would outline the strategic approach, mission profiles, crew activities, surface operations, resource utilization, and other key aspects of Mars missions.
3. Identify Key Challenges: The study aimed to identify the key challenges associated with human missions to Mars, including risk and cost drivers. Understanding and addressing these challenges were crucial for mission planning and implementation.
4. Development Schedule Options: The study aimed to explore various development schedule options for human missions to Mars. This involved assessing different timelines, mission phases, and potential milestones. It provided a range of options for consideration in future planning.
5. Assess Strategic Linkages with Lunar Strategies: The study aimed to assess the strategic linkages between lunar exploration strategies and Mars exploration strategies. Understanding the connections and potential synergies between these two domains of exploration could inform decision-making and resource allocation.
6. Reduce Cost and Risk through Research and Technology Development: The study aimed to develop an understanding of methods for reducing the cost and risk of human Mars missions. This included investigating research, technology development, and synergy with other exploration plans. It involved exploring the role of robotic Mars missions, cis-lunar activities, International Space Station (ISS) activities, Earth-based analog sites, laboratory studies, computer simulations, and additional research and technology development investments.
7. Develop a Forward Plan: The study aimed to develop a forward plan to resolve issues that were not resolved during the 2007 study. This would involve identifying areas that required further investigation, research, or decision-making, and developing a roadmap for addressing these issues in the future.

Overall, the 2007 study aimed to update the reference architecture for human Mars missions, assess strategic linkages, reduce cost and risk through research and technology development, and provide a forward plan for unresolved issues. The study provided a framework for future planning, technology development, and decision-making related to human exploration of Mars.

Mars Design Reference Architecture 2007 Key Decision Packages

The Mars Design Reference Architecture (DRA) 5.0 in 2007 identified several key decision packages that required consideration for human missions to Mars. These decision packages encompassed various aspects of mission planning and implementation. Here are the key decision packages outlined in the DRA 5.0:

1. Mission Type: The first decision package involved determining the mission type, specifically choosing between a conjunction class (long surface stay) or opposition class (short surface stay). This decision aimed to find the best balance of cost, risk, and performance for the mission. The conjunction class would involve longer surface stays on Mars, while the opposition class would have shorter surface stays.
2. Pre-Deployment of Mission Cargo: This decision package focused on whether mission assets, which would not be used by the crew until their arrival at Mars, should be pre-deployed ahead of the crew’s arrival. This approach could involve sending cargo in advance to ensure that necessary supplies and equipment are already on the Martian surface when the crew arrives.
3. Mars Orbit Capture Method: The third decision package considered the method of Mars orbit capture. Specifically, it assessed whether the atmosphere of Mars should be utilized for capturing mission assets into orbit through a technique known as aerocapture. This method utilizes atmospheric drag to slow down and capture spacecraft into Martian orbit.
4. Use of In-Situ Resources for Mars Ascent: This decision package addressed the question of whether locally produced propellants should be utilized for Mars ascent. It explored the feasibility and benefits of manufacturing propellants on Mars using in-situ resources, such as extracting and processing resources available on the planet’s surface.
5. Mars Surface Power Strategy: The final decision package focused on determining the best surface power strategy for the mission. This decision involved evaluating various options and selecting the strategy that provided the optimal balance of cost, risk, and performance for generating power on the Martian surface.

These decision packages highlight the critical considerations and trade-offs involved in planning human missions to Mars. By evaluating factors such as mission type, pre-deployment of cargo, orbit capture methods, use of in-situ resources, and surface power strategies, planners can make informed decisions to optimize the mission’s success while managing cost, risk, and performance factors.