Space Science in the Twenty-First Century: Imperatives for the Decades 1995 to 2015. Planetary and Lunar Exploration

摘要

In the next 30 years an increase in the technical infrastructure in space should be seen. This increase should include both earth-orbital facilities for scientific investigations, and advanced capabilities for deep-space operation of scientific spacecraft. The goals of planetary exploration are achieved primarily through spacecraft missions, although various earth-based and orbital activities also serve an integral role. The recommended goals consist of completion of the reconnaissance and exploration of the solar system and intensive exploration of the planet Mars. Accomplishments of the solar system exploration from 1965 to 1995 and the expected scientific questions as of the end of that period are summarized. The program of missions for the period 1995 to 2015 are presented.