Bioluminescent Lighting for Sustainable Illumination in Future Lunar Underground Colonies
- Paper number
IAC-24,A3,IP,132,x88954
- Author
Mr. Sathesh Raj, University of Naples "Federico II", Italy
- Coauthor
Ms. Akanksha Bhagat, India
- Coauthor
Mr. Siddhesh Durgude, India
- Coauthor
Mr. Jiahui Li, Shantou University, China
- Year
2024
- Abstract
Exploration of lava tubes, underground caves formed by volcanic activity, has unveiled their potential as human habitats for space exploration. These natural structures offer protected living quarters, shielded from cosmic and solar radiation as well as micrometeorite impacts. Moreover, the stable environment within lava tubes, buffered from temperature fluctuations, presents a promising option for a long term sustained human habitation. Leveraging biological solutions for sustainable space missions, particularly microbial systems, has emerged as a promising avenue for space exploration. This research delves into the integration of bioluminescent microbes as a sustainable lighting solution tailored for underground habitats in future lunar colonies. In addressing the unique challenges of subterranean lunar environments, such as limited sunlight and resource constraints, bioluminescent lighting offers an energy-efficient and environmentally sustainable alternative. By evaluating the feasibility and effectiveness of bioluminescent lighting systems within lava tubes on the Moon, researchers can be informed of the energy efficiency, sustainability, psychological impact on inhabitants, and practical applications of microbial bioluminescence in lunar subterranean architecture. This research zeroes in on a football-field-sized lunar lava tube as a model to shed the light on the efficacy of microbial bioluminescent lighting systems for future lunar settlers.
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
IAC-24,A3,IP,132,x88954.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).
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