The European Space Agency (ESA) has unveiled its conceptual plan for a large-scale lunar base, developed as part of the Discovery program and in collaboration with the architectural firm Hassell. This project focuses on technological development in the areas of structures needed to solve various problems that future lunar inhabitants may face, including exploration, tourism and mining, which may become part of the lunar economy.
The main objective of the project is to solve possible problems associated with people staying on the surface of the Moon for a long time. This includes developing measures to ensure that astronauts are protected from harsh environments including radiation, dust and extreme temperatures, as well as providing essential resources such as water, oxygen and energy.
Based on the presented design of the base, residents are offered accommodation in inflatable modules with minimal contact with the surface to reduce contact with abrasive dust. Protection from radiation will be provided by a shell created from blocks made using three-dimensional printing from lunar regolith, which can be interconnected above the modules. In addition, astronauts will be able to extract water and oxygen from lunar regolith. To smooth out temperature fluctuations and maximize the use of solar energy, the base will be located on the rim of Shackleton Crater, located at the south pole of the Moon, allowing it to be exposed to direct sunlight for longer periods of time.
However, both ESA and Hassell admit that their design is far from reality, but flexibility is its main principle. «This is not the case when we try to run forward without yet being able to walk. Projects like these require a lot of time in the planning stage. We will continue to explore the scientific aspects», — emphasizes Xavier De Questellier, Hassell's chief designer and chief architect of the project.