autonomous space colony construction
- Paper number
IAC-14,D3,3,14,x26559
- Author
Mr. Hirai Michio, International Space University (ISU), France
- Coauthor
Prof. Chris Welch, International Space University (ISU), France
- Coauthor
Mr. Andreas Hein, Technische Universität München, Germany
- Year
2014
- Abstract
The classic O’ Neill space colony manufacturing concept relied heavily on human labour and the use of lunar materials. However, current and future advances in additive manufacturing and the potential transport of Near-Earth Asteroids to the vicinity of the Earth-Moon system, creates potential approaches to the construction of large space habitats. This paper assesses the composition of the heaviest components of such a space colony and analyses the possible construction of these based on asteroid mining and additive manufacturing. Different methods of construction are analysed and compared. The amount of mass required to bring from the Earth is assessed and compared with the classic O’Neill approach and the amount of asteroid material is determined. In addition, a comparison between lunar regolith and asteroid composition is undertaken to assess the replaceability of lunar regolith for the parts manufacturing.
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
IAC-14,D3,3,14,x26559.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).
To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.