With the design of the new international space station, one has the opportunity to utilize the first lunar modules on the lunar surface.

 

Background

 A lunar base on the moon would provide a priceless chance to research and analyze new propulsion systems and extraterrestrial dwellings, as well as transmission and life support systems. This station would provide an ideal testing ground prior to further journeys by astronauts to Mars, later in the next great scientific project, a nine month trip away, as opposed to just a few days to the moon.

 

As one scientific writer observed "Some of the possible export options include: water from the permanently shadowed craters, precious metals from asteroid impact sites, and even helium-3 that could fuel a pollution-free terrestrial civilization for many centuries," and "As transportation to and from the Moon becomes more frequent and cheaper, the lunar tourism mark could  begin to emerge and become a significant source of income in the future."

At a fundamental level, we already have the knowledge and experience regarding how to sustain ourselves on the Moon, because humans have been living on the International Space Station for years.

 

Main Concept

 Effective and efficient in utilization of solar power, each lunar module aims to be self-sustaining and utilizes recycled water inside. It endeavors to be among the most progressive in terms of energy use. The current PLSS technologies have already demonstrated their credibility over the past fourteen years on various international Space Stations and one can have the confidence to use these water recycling mechanisms which balance oxygen and carbon levels. There will be ample life support know-how here, based upon scientific principles, to provide a footing for the first human colonization on the Moon.

Additionally, this concept facilitates concrete implementation of the futuristic aspirations associated with the new modules. This design offers much mobility in terms of its own layout and expand easily. The playful nature of this concept is a key aspect of these capsules. It is designed to appeal to everyone and will enhance the good feeling inside. This is a prototype that can be easily be built and it is serviceable and cost-effective in terms of maintenance.

 

Construction

The main building concept is to have the necessary life saving radiation shields, ready to be placed onto the structural loops (see diagram).The construction is prefabricated and has a 4 meter by 13.5 meter aluminum basic chassis for each module. Inside there are several cross-members to give the modules structural strength. The independent pressurized entrance vaults are then integrated into the shields.

The modules have various insulations not unlike the Space Shuttle thermal protection system (TPS) in order to protect them from the extreme cold. Their structural weights are light which can easily slot onto the cross bracing frames already located on the Moon.

 

Transport

 The flexible living module can easily fit into the cargo bay of the Space Shuttle. Once the ‘taxi’ Moon transporter arrives outside the Moon’s orbit, the module is then picked up from the Space Shuttle and transferred to the Moon.

The supplies of such items as electronical equipment, essential supplies and other  regular life sustaining material can be brought by the ‘taxi’ Moon transporter from the Space Shuttle too.

Each module has enough room for up to 12 astronauts and there can be shifts several times a year.

 

The Vision

 The time it will take to set up these modules will be short and easy to implement from the landed Moon transporter. It is anticipated that these modules will form a permanent base from which to operate on and to provide the necessary experience and scientific knowledge for the next adventurers later to Mars.

 

 Ultimately these lunar modules are designed to be iconic, and able to be seen from afar, as a space station for any aspiring astronaut who wishes to come and explore the vast and beautiful

Landscape on the moon.

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see also: https://www.eleven-magazine.com/?entrants=moon-capsule-_001-ec2339