Alternative Artemis III EVA Opportunities near de Gerlache Crater

Abstract

These figures illustrate a single example of an alternative to site 011 in the vicinity of de Gerlache's crater rim that would allow site 011 to remain free of mission debris, while allowing the crater rim and polar regolith to be characterized in sufficient detail to enhance preparations for the installation of long-term infrastructure needed for a sustainable exploration and development program (e.g., as described in NASA's Plan for Sustainable Lunar Exploration and Development). Other locations exist throughout the region. More detailed analyses, utilizing half-meter resolution NAC imagery, are needed for a comprehensive trade study to identify the best options available for an initial series of Artemis missions to the lunar surface.