The mission team analyzed three potential trajectories, concluding that the Earth-Mars-Ceres Transfer trajectory is the optimal path for the mission.

The study, conducted by Ramesh Kumar V., Raviteja Bheemavarapu, and Malaya Kumar Biswal M., focused on optimizing fuel efficiency by using Mars as a staging point for the journey.

Future mission simulations will incorporate precise planetary positions and develop strategies to mitigate long-term radiation exposure and microgravity effects.

NASA has been pursuing crewed missions to Mars for over two decades, with China also planning similar missions, emphasizing the global interest in establishing habitats in cis-lunar space.

A new mission concept, known as the Human-Crewed Interplanetary Transport Architecture (HUCITAR), aims to launch by 2035 for a 4-year, 7-month expedition to Mars and Ceres.

The mission will unfold in four phases: departing from Earth's Low Earth Orbit (LEO) in July 2035, reaching Mars by March 2036, exploring Ceres by November 2037, and returning to Earth by April 2040.

During the Mars phase, three astronauts will utilize a reusable lander for surface exploration, while the remaining three will head to Ceres, taking 574 days to reach the dwarf planet.

This mission underscores India's emerging role in deep space exploration, marking a significant advancement in the planning of human missions within the solar system.

To support the mission, advanced propulsion systems are necessary, with delta-v requirements ranging from approximately 3.75 km/s for Mars capture to up to 11.2 km/s in certain scenarios, favoring nuclear thermal propulsion for feasibility.

To tackle communication challenges during the mission, a Mars-Ceres Communication Relay Orbiter is recommended, similar to the existing Mars Relay Network.

The Earth-Mars-Ceres pathway will allow for efficient orbit capture at Ceres, enabling the crew to separate and head to Ceres even before reaching Mars if needed.