The Exploration Technology Development Program

Abstract

[Abstract] The Exploration Technology Development Program (ETDP) is maturing key technologies that will allow NASA to establish an outpost on the Moon around 2020. The ETDP is developing the prototype heat shield, life support, and thermal control systems for the Orion crew exploration vehicle. Cryogenic propulsion, propellant storage, and precision landing systems are being developed for the Lunar Lander. Technologies being developed for the lunar surface include advanced robotics and extra-vehicular activity (EVA) systems for outpost assembly and maintenance, power generation and energy storage systems, and in-situ resource utilization systems to make the outpost sustainable. The ETDP also supports fundamental research in biology, fluid physics, and combustion on the International Space Station (ISS), and operational instruments for monitoring the ISS crew environment.