ROSES 2024: C.23 Analog Activities to Support Artemis Lunar Operations

The "Analog Activities to Support Artemis Lunar Operations" program, as detailed in the document, is part of NASA's effort to simulate and optimize science operations for future lunar missions under the Artemis program. The program focuses on supporting high-fidelity analog mission campaigns, such as the Joint Extravehicular Activity Test Team (JETT) and Desert Research and Technology Studies (D-RATS), which are designed to test and refine operational procedures, equipment, and decision-making processes in a controlled, Earth-based environment. Researchers selected for this program will participate as science team members in various phases of analog missions, including planning, execution, and post-mission analysis. Key areas of interest include defining science team structures, optimizing human-robotic interactions, developing science requirements for lunar missions, and creating surface science scenarios to assist in mission planning. These analog activities aim to inform the design of hardware and operational protocols for human lunar exploration, ultimately enhancing the scientific return of Artemis missions. Eligibility is limited to U.S.-based researchers, including advanced graduate students, who will participate individually. The awards are for one year, with funding capped at $40,000 per participant. Most participants will be based at Mission Control in Houston, Texas, but some may work in the field at test sites such as SP Crater and Black Point Lava Flow in Arizona. Selected researchers will contribute to mission planning, support real-time science operations during tests, and provide feedback to NASA regarding operational challenges and science support strategies. Proposals must include descriptions of the proposer's field or analog experience, relevant scientific expertise, and ability to work in diverse team environments. Additionally, participants are expected to demonstrate their ability to disseminate results and lessons learned to NASA and the broader research community. Awards are contingent on the occurrence of analog field campaigns, and approximately 10 awards are anticipated. The program's primary goal is to support the development of improved science operations for lunar exploration, including aspects such as crew scheduling, sample handling, traverse planning, and science communication protocols.