Purpose and Definition of a Lunar Surface Disposal Zone for Lunar Satellites

A study was recently completed for the UK Space Agency to develop Lunar Debris Mitigation Guidelines. This presentation covers part of the study concerned with a lunar ‘graveyard’ or surface disposal zone. It will discuss mission types for which semi-controlled impact on the Moon may be justifiable compared to alternative post-mission disposal methods. It will then put forward disposal zone definition criteria taking into account non-interference and preservation of regions of unique or special interest. Interests considered include science on and from the Moon, unique selenological features, planetary protection, natural resources, heritage landing sites, and of course safety of crewed and robotic operations on the Moon. Other factors to be mentioned include mission characteristics, lunar topography and a cordon sized to contain impact ejecta. Graveyard sizing will be discussed with reference to two disposal case studies.