Larry Bell

Lunar Surface Systems Concept Study: Minimum Functionality Habitation Element

The primary result of the Minimum Functionality Habitat Element study was a concept level lunar habitat that provided the minimum functionality required to support the NASA prescribed reference mission. The habitat configuration was derived using an iterative system engineering process. The habitat functions; from pre-launch to operational environments, in packed/deployed and manned/unmanned modes, and operational support functions of the habitat, were identified by analyzing the reference mission. Functions were identified for explicit requirements and needs. These functions were collected by categories without association to any particular method, configuration or design solution for providing that function. The categorization and grouping provided a general logic to ensure identifying and capturing all required functions. No functions were included unless traceable to an identified habitat need or stated requirement. The functions were then analyzed to find areas of commonality. These commonalities were then used to identify how the functions could be most effectively combined to minimize the habitat systems and resources. In this evaluation process, any valid constraints were considered in selecting acceptable implementation methods. For example, regolith piled around and on the habitat walls is a very effective thermal, MMSE and radiation environmental control resource. However, it is not a viable option because the lack of infrastructure to move the regolith, according to the reference mission. The final result of the study was a conceptual design and definition of a ‘bare bones’ or minimum habitat element that incorporates the benefits of flexible materials.

Planetary Base Element Envelope, Layout and Configuration Interface Considerations

This paper addresses some key determinants that literally shape the external and internal forms of modular lunar/planetary structures. The presentation illustrates and compares commonly proposed types of habitat module design options in regard to implications of different envelope geometries, dimensions and site development patterns for planetary surface applications. Types of modules considered include vertically and horizontally-oriented cylindrical pressure vessels which are landed using overhead and bottom-mounted descent systems.

Lunar Habitat Micrometeoroid and Radiation Shielding: Options, Applications, and Assessments

Various shielding approaches to protect lunar habitats from micrometeoroid and radiation hazards present major trade-off considerations. Popular scenarios that envision covering modules with in situ regolith will necessitate means to excavate and move large amounts of material; will complicate evolutionary outpost growth; and may require long tunnels between connecting pressurized elements. Strategies that incorporate shielding materials into module structures or internal shelters add very substantial launch mass penalties. Utilization of water bladders can make efficient use of consumable/recyclable supplies, but may impose excess capacity deliveries at early development stages. This paper addresses these different shielding approaches from a top-level application perspective, highlighting pros and cons of each. Examples draw upon research and design investigations undertaken by the Sasakawa International Center for Space Architecture in support of separate National Aeronautics and Space Administration (...

Air Supported Membrane Structure Applications for Large-Scale Disaster Response Shelters

Air-supported membrane structures can potentially offer important and unique advantages as emergency shelters and community service facility applications. Key among these benefit features are that they can be transported to remote locations in small, lightweight packages; they can be rapidly deployed at the site without large construction equipment, special tools or skills; and they can provide spacious, environmentally-protected interior volumes that are versatile and can be adapted for a variety of needs. This paper will present a variety of systems concepts, including an example of a large-scale air-supported membrane structure that is applicable for providing emergency shelter for community groups and support accommodations exceeding capacities of conventional module approaches. This work is part of an ongoing design exploration study that is being undertaken at the University of Houstons Sasakawa International Center for Space Architecture (SICSA).