A Polyhedral Approach for Design of Inflatable Lunar Habitats

Krishnan, Sudarshan

doi:10.1061/9780784483374.092

Cited by 3 publications

(2 citation statements)

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“…Once determined, a cave may then be considered for the insertion of a habitation module (or series of modules) (Q46). While some inflatable and hybrid inflatable‐rigid habitation prototypes have been tested and proof‐of‐concept models developed (Daga et al., 2010; Krishnan, 2021; Litteken, 2019), these systems were not designed for caves. Modifications would be required to ensure these modules are sufficiently ruggedized for underground use.…”

Section: Resultsmentioning

confidence: 99%

Fundamental Science and Engineering Questions in Planetary Cave Exploration

et al. 2022

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Nearly half a century ago, two papers postulated the likelihood of lunar lava tube caves using mathematical models. Today, armed with an array of orbiting and fly-by satellites and survey instrumentation, we have now acquired cave data across our solar system-including the identification of potential cave entrances on the Moon, Mars, and at least nine other planetary bodies. These discoveries gave rise to the study of planetary caves. To help advance this field, we leveraged the expertise of an interdisciplinary group to identify a strategy to explore caves beyond Earth. Focusing primarily on astrobiology, the cave environment, geology, robotics, instrumentation, and human exploration, our goal was to produce a framework to guide this subdiscipline through at least the next decade. To do this, we first assembled a list of 198 science and engineering questions. Then, through a series of social surveys, 114 scientists and engineers winnowed down the list to the top 53 highest priority questions. This exercise resulted in identifying emerging and crucial research areas that require robust development to ultimately support a robotic mission to a planetary caveprincipally the Moon and/or Mars. With the necessary financial investment and institutional support, the research and technological development required to achieve these necessary advancements over the next decade WYNNE ET AL.

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Section: Resultsmentioning

confidence: 99%

Fundamental Science and Engineering Questions in Planetary Cave Exploration

et al. 2022

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“…Additionally, while the use of lunar lava tube caves as human habitats was proposed over 50 years ago (Halliday, 1966), prototypes for inflatable human habitation modules (e.g., Daga et al., 2010; Krishnan, 2021; Litteken, 2019) have been developed only recently; while not engineered specifically for caves, these habitats could be modified for cave use and thereby gain thermal and radiation protection. These and other efforts concretely demonstrate the sub‐discipline of planetary cave science and exploration is on the cusp of a “golden age” of scientific inquiry and technological development.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%