NASA Opens Human Explorations and Operations Directorate

NASA has launched a human exploration and operations (HEO) mission directorate for deep space exploration in Washington, US.

The new organisation combines the space operations and exploration systems departments, and will focus on international space station operations and human exploration beyond low Earth orbit.

According to Nasa, the new organisation will combine the talents, skills and experiences of the two previous directorates.

The directorate will also manage commercial crew and cargo developmental programmes, including construction of the Orion multipurpose crew vehicle, a spacecraft designed to travel beyond low Earth orbit.

In addition, the new organisation will develop a new heavy-lift rocket, known as the space launch system, and other programmes within the directorates.