Consumables and Wastes Estimations for the First Lunar Outpost

Several studies performed in support of the Space Exploration Initiative have identified the need for development or improvement of new or existing regenerative life support process technologies. In part, the need to develop such technologies is dependent on the quantities of consumables that are required by the mission and hence on mission design. Trade studies will be needed to determine appropriate life support system designs that provide consumables to the crew and support systems and dispose of waste materials that are generated. These studies will require quantitative estimates of consumables and waste stream disposal requirements that support a given mission scenario. The NASA Exploration Programs Office (ExPO) is attempting to define the details and logistics of a design reference mission for the first human return to the Moon. The mission is referred to as the First Lunar Outpost.

The objective of this study is to develop a set of consumables and waste material estimations that are based on the First Lunar Outpost mission scenario developed by ExPO. This study suggests areas where careful integration of consumables and wastes across different mission elements could provide possible launch mass savings.