NASA is moving from developing its own relay orbiters to a model that purchases connectivity as a service. This transition aims to establish a commercial infrastructure that can ensure reliable data transmission for Mars missions. The agency is focusing on creating a market for communications options rather than relying solely on aging NASA assets. Current initiatives include feasibility studies for a lunar communications line and improved Mars connectivity, addressing challenges such as distance, latency, and system resilience due to environmental impacts.
NASA is transitioning from building its own relay orbiters to purchasing connectivity as a service, similar to how it sources launch and astronaut transport services.
The agency's new strategy combines NASA assets with commercial infrastructure, aiming to replace the existing relay network, ensuring consistent communication for Mars missions.
NASA's MAVEN spacecraft is identified as a crucial relay component, with efforts underway to ensure its operation continues into the early 2030s amid aging hardware.
The current request focuses on capability studies to establish a lunar trunkline and enhance end-to-end Mars communications, addressing challenges like vast distances and solar interference.
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