A Flexible Lunar Architecture for Exploration (FLARE) supporting NASA's Artemis Program.

Area of Science:

• Space Exploration
• Lunar Missions
• Aerospace Engineering

Background:

• NASA's Human Landing System (HLS) reference architecture utilized a Near-Rectilinear Halo Orbit (NRHO).
• Previous architectures required complex orbital mechanics and higher propellant usage.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present the Flexible Lunar Architecture for Exploration (FLARE) as an alternative to NASA's HLS.
• To detail FLARE's use of a Low Lunar Frozen Polar Orbit (LLFPO) for enhanced lunar access and mission flexibility.

Main Methods:

• FLARE utilizes a Low Lunar Frozen Polar Orbit (LLFPO) for component rendezvous and lunar surface access.
• The architecture employs the Space Launch System (SLS), Orion, European Service Module (ESM), and a human lander.
• A SpaceTug vehicle, based on the Centaur Upper Stage, facilitates Earth-Moon transfers and component delivery.

Main Results:

• LLFPO provides stable, frequent overflights of the lunar south pole, enabling easier surface access and aborts.
• FLARE reduces propellant requirements compared to NRHO orbits.
• The architecture supports extended crewed missions up to 14 days with precursor equipment.

Conclusions:

• FLARE offers a flexible and efficient architecture for lunar exploration.
• The LLFPO strategy enhances accessibility and reduces mission costs.
• FLARE can be implemented with existing and planned spaceflight technologies.