Design Considerations for Exterior and Interior Configurations of Surface Habitat Modules

Paper number

IAC-06-E3.4.08

Author

Prof. Olga Bannova, University of Houston, United States

Year

2006

Abstract

Planning for long-duration lunar and Mars exploration missions must provide appropriate human support accommodations to optimize crew comfort, health, morale, performance and safety. This paper presents considerations and concepts for the exterior and interior architectures for lunar and Mars surface habitat modules. The paper addresses two general types of habitat structures: vertical and horizontal. Both types have strictly constrained diameter and length dimensions which must comply with Earth launch vehicles, landing limitations and surface mobility restrictions.

Interior configurations discussed in the paper are based upon a design approach utilizing “inflatable” soft pliable laminated wall structures that can provide large multi-functional interior spaces. A special “pop-out” design concept enables floors and utility interfaces to be pre-integrated in a manner that avoids complex and time-consuming construction on the lunar/planetary surface.

Both of these construction types offer special advantages, and also impose special planning considerations to optimize benefits. Goals are to maximize habitability, crew safety, spatial efficiency, functional versatility and EVA access/egress from the surface. Illustrative concepts are presented showing examples of interior layouts, functional areas and equipment systems.

Abstract document

IAC-06-E3.4.08.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-06-E3.4.08.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.