Global Exploration Strategy Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the global exploration strategy?
The Global Exploration Strategy, which includes input from more than 1,000 individuals representing 14 of the world's space agencies, as well as non-governmental organizations and commercial interests, was intended to address two overarching issues: "Why we are returning to the moon," and "What we are planning to do when we get there?"
Participation by other nations, as well as commercial interests, is an important aspect of implementing the Vision for Space Exploration. The process of developing a global strategy created an opportunity to explore in greater depth the reasons other countries might have for going to the moon, potential activities associated with lunar exploration, and to understand commercial interest in the overall Vision. The global exploration strategy is the result of a lengthy dialogue among potential stakeholders.
How was the global exploration strategy dialogue conducted?
NASA Administrator Michael Griffin initiated the dialogue in order to discover fresh ideas and gauge international interest in the U.S. agency's plan for implementing the Vision for Space Exploration – particularly with regard to the moon and Mars. From April 2006 through December 2006, NASA and representatives from 13 other space agencies met regularly with non-governmental organizations and private-sector entities to identify goals and objectives, and to begin to understand what exploration of the moon might mean for each nation. NASA coordinated the multilateral discussions. The agency's approach was inclusive.
What space agencies participated?
In addition to NASA, space exploration experts from Australia, Canada, China, the European Space Agency, France, Germany, Great Britain, India, Italy, Japan, Russia, South Korea, and Ukraine participated.
What did the multilateral discussions produce?
The discussions generated agreement on six strategic themes for lunar exploration, 180 possible objectives within those themes, and a draft framework document. More information about the themes and objectives can be found on the Exploration website at
www.nasa.gov/exploration. The participants agreed on the themes that answer the question "Why return to the moon?" The themes are:
- 1. Exploration Preparation: To use the moon to prepare for future human and robotic missions to Mars and other destinations
2. Scientific Knowledge: To pursue scientific activities addressing fundamental questions about Earth, the solar system, the universe and our place in them
3. Sustained Presence: To extend human presence to the moon
4. Economic Expansion: To expand Earth's economic sphere to encompass the moon and to pursue lunar activities with direct benefits to life on Earth
5. Global Partnership: To strengthen existing international partnerships and create new ones
6. Inspiration: To engage, inspire and educate the public.
The Global Exploration Strategy is a work in progress. It will inform future discussions between NASA and its partners on areas of collaboration and cooperation in the exploration of the moon, Mars, and beyond.
