Logistics Analysis for Lunar Post-Mission Disposal

TL;DR

This paper evaluates the logistics, environmental, and economic aspects of waste management from lunar in-situ resource utilization technologies, highlighting the need for sustainable disposal strategies to support future lunar exploration.

Contribution

It introduces a comprehensive analysis framework for lunar waste disposal logistics and environmental impacts, emphasizing the importance of innovative solutions for sustainable lunar operations.

Findings

ISRU activities reduce costs threefold

Byproduct management is a critical challenge

Sustainable disposal strategies are essential for lunar exploration

Abstract

As human activities on the Moon expand through initiatives like NASA's Artemis program, the need for sustainable post-mission disposal strategies becomes critical to maintaining the lunar environment. This paper analyzes the logistics and environmental implications of waste products generated by In-Situ Resource Utilization technologies employed in oxygen production on the Moon. The study examines the inputs, generation of products, and the resulting byproducts from Molten Regolith Electrolysis, Soil/Water Extraction, and Direct Water Electrolysis systems. These technologies yield varied byproducts, including slag, metals and volatiles, each presenting unique challenges for disposal and recycling. The analysis assesses the economic and ecological impacts of In-Situ Resource Utilization activities on lunar operations using a multi-commodity flow model adapted from cislunar logistics frameworks. The results inform that ISRU-enabled missions achieve a significant threefold cost reduction. However, the management of byproducts remains a critical challenge, demanding innovative solutions to address their impact and support scalable and sustainable lunar exploration.