New ideas, non-standard concepts in space exploration

Norman Foster, whose company recently proposed to the European Space Agency (ESA) a project for a lunar base that will not just be built, huh? printed on the surface of a silver globe using 3D technology (1).

Engineers are wondering if it would be easier and cheaper to build such a facility there, using a device that scoops material for building materials from lunar soil? and then ? turns it into a substance used in 3D printing.

The structural elements of the base must be hollow, which is comparable to the structure of bird bones. This is necessary to ensure durability, resistance to shock and stress caused by temperature changes. The structure should also be under a layer of lunar soil for additional protection from radiation and micrometeorites.

You can build space objects, you can also inflate them like balloons. Unlike Foster's design, which seems rather far in time, inflatable modules will soon become a reality on the International Space Station. NASA has signed a contract with Bigelow Aerospace to manufacture and install such a flexible module on the ISS. The BEAM balloon will become part of the station in 2015 and will be tested by its residents for two years (2).

Maybe not everyone is aware, but space modules? balloons flew into space a few years ago. In 2006–2007, the company tested earlier versions of BEAM modules using Ukrainian Dnepr missiles.

The company's owner, hotelier Robert Bigelow, has more ambitious plans than just being a NASA supplier. After testing the balloons, does he want to use them to build his own orbital station? hotel for tourists, but also a research base. The next step will be inflatable moon bases.

Lunar tourism

And since we are already in the vicinity of the Moon, it is worth mentioning one more idea, so crazy that it fits more into an article about non-traditional concepts than about real space business.

You will find the continuation of the article in the May issue of the magazine

How NASA will add an inflatable room to the space station | video