Expandable Lunar Habitat
ILC Dover conducted a design study under contract to NASA JSC for an expandable Lunar Habitat in 1996-1997. NASA was conduction studies of lightweight structures that could pack into small volumes for launch and provide the necessary living space for extended durations (6 days for 2 crew) on the lunar surface. The system was designed to land and deploy autonomously prior to arrival of the crew. The habitat consisted of rigid endcaps that would contain all the logistical supplies and fixed assets, and a 7.5 ft diameter by 12 ft long expandable / inflatable center section that would multiply the living space. Operational pressure was 8 psid and the structure was designed with a factor of safety of 4. ILC performed configuration analysis, systems design, material & component design, and structural analysis in the study of the lunar habitat softgoods and flooring. The study included:
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ILC Structural Design Concept Examples for the Softgoods (Webbing Restraing & Internal Cables)
NASA JSC Concept Sketch of the Lunar Lander |
ILC Proposed Softgoods Design Concept |
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