NASA has published its final version of a Low Earth Orbit Microgravity Strategy, outlining goals for science, technology, and other areas related to a human presence in LEO. The strategy aims for a “continuous heartbeat” – having humans in orbit continuously – rather than just retaining the ability to send people to space.
The concept of continuous capability means allowing gaps in crewed presence in orbit, but it’s not an option that NASA prefers. Instead, the agency wants long-duration flights of six months to a year to mitigate risks for future trips to Mars.
The strategy was developed with input from industry, academia, and international partners, who emphasized the need for a continuous human presence to maintain leadership in space. Some companies, like Axiom Space, have warned that retaining the ability to send people to space might be necessary, but others see it as a way to gradually transition to commercial stations.
The completion of the LEO Microgravity Strategy comes ahead of NASA’s next phase in its Commercial LEO Destinations program, which will fund companies to certify their stations for NASA astronauts and purchase services. The agency plans to issue a call for proposals in 2025 and make awards in 2026.
Key points:
* NASA prefers a “continuous heartbeat” – having humans in orbit continuously.
* The strategy aims for long-duration flights of six months to a year to mitigate risks for future trips to Mars.
* Industry, academia, and international partners have emphasized the need for a continuous human presence to maintain leadership in space.
* The completion of the LEO Microgravity Strategy comes ahead of NASA’s next phase in its Commercial LEO Destinations program.
Source: https://spacenews.com/nasa-endorses-continuous-heartbeat-approach-to-human-presence-in-leo