A Modeling Framework for Interplanetary Supply Chains

As NASA looks ahead to next-generation human space exploration, it is essential to consider the cost of operations and support in order to ensure the development of affordable programs. The life-cycle costs of future exploration ventures can be reduced by focusing on the interplanetary logistics strategy. By leveraging proven supply chain management techniques from the military and commercial sectors and applying them to the unique challenges of human space exploration, space logistics can be streamlined, and mission affordability and robustness can be increased. This paper describes a modeling framework for space logistics which enables description, evaluation, and optimization of various types of logistics strategies. The framework is embodied in SpaceNet, a discrete event simulation and optimization software program.