The future of space architecture and the development of lunar bases are steadily becoming more tangible with the innovative plans of the experts at Paulinyi & Partners. Roland Németh, head of automation development, shared detailed insights in his interview with Hely.hu into how habitable and sustainable infrastructure on the Moon can be realized. He highlights that the Moon's lack of an atmosphere makes it essential to rely on regolith-based structures, which are not only cost-effective but also provide excellent physical protection from radiation and tiny meteorites. A 2-3 meter thick regolith shell offers highly effective shielding, making long-term lunar habitation safer.
Németh also discusses the importance of local resource utilization, emphasizing that the infrastructure will heavily depend on autonomous mining and material processing technologies. According to current plans, raw materials will be extracted, melted, and shaped directly on the Moon using automated systems, eliminating the need to transport materials from Earth. The ongoing research progresses towards enabling large-span structures, which are possible due to the Moon’s low gravity environment, allowing for more stable and expansive buildings.
He additionally highlights considerations for supporting long-duration missions, including onsite food production. Aeroponic farms, for example, could enable astronauts to grow their own crops efficiently with minimal water and nutrients, enhancing self-sufficiency and reducing reliance on supply missions from Earth. The legal framework surrounding lunar bases remains a developing area, with ongoing studies and discussions about appropriate regulations, land use, and ownership, which are crucial for future cooperation and development.
This interview provides a thorough overview of the technological, architectural, and legal challenges involved in establishing lunar bases, along with innovative solutions aimed at making them a reality. For more details and expert insights, read the full interview.
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