In 2024, humans will touchdown on the Moon's surface again. In 2030, NASA is planning on sending the first crewed mission to Mars. Between now and 2060, governmental and private sectors will focus on building research facilities and permanent settlements on the Moon. These habitats will become more and more sophisticated, larger in size, and more conducive to long-term stays.
Lunar mining is instrumental to the future of space. It will support the fabrication of lunar architectures, advance research in petrology and partial gravity biology, and supplement missions to Mars. Mining requires crews who work and live on site for long stretches of time.
As we begin our extraterrestrial journey through the universe, what will we bring with us? What will define us as a species? How will we bring comfort, creativity and humanity to this vast dark space? To contrast with the Moon's "black and white" landscape, Nonfiction is exploring the idea of "owning color on the Moon". To help us push meaningful human stories, we dove into five areas of exploration: Protection, Sustainability, Wellbeing, Non-science, and Exploration.
Visitors to the Moon are greeted by a sculptural beacon that stands out in the darkness of space. The entrance to the Moon Village is an icon for intelligent life on the moon. It is an amalgamation of physical and psychological experiences that let humans do more than exist on the Moon. Our design goal is to support humanity so it can thrive and flourish in space.
The Moon Village is a transitory hub for space tourism and deep space research. It will house a semi-permanent colony of miners, worker and scientists harvesting Moon resources for space travel.
Exploration is for everyone, not just the scientists. Our viewing dome is a casual community space where tourists, workers and their family members can enjoy the brilliance of the stars. It is casual and comfortable. Holographic fireplaces bring a sense of deeply human experience to space. Video chats are conducted though holographs also.
Protection from the extreme environments is paramount to extended stay on the Moon. Imagine a twelve story building that is protected from radiation and extreme temperatures found on the moon. Underground lava tubes are present all over the Moon, they are structurally sound, and can be as big as 300 meters in diameter. This creates a temperature and radiation stable habitat for people that live and work on the Moon for extended periods of time.
The Village uses sustainable systems to manage food, water and natural resources to build itself. Automation is key to building an environment efficiently with little human power. Robotic arms 3D print home modules using concentrated microwaves to melt and extrude Moon regolith. Vertical gardens for air and food are managed by mobile robots. People move from floor to floor via spiral staircases A large Guggenheim spiral ramp lets rovers move easily between levels, while a central elevator transports people and goods quickly to the surface.
Home modules are grouped into small communities and surrounded by comforting green moss, giving an inviting sense of neighborhood. The modules are organic looking, let lots of light in, and are reminiscent of natural coral reef structures. The green moss reminds us of the beauty on planet Earth through smells and textures, while requiring little water and maintenance. Inhabitants use connected wearables to measure health, sleep and other vital metrics.
Personal spaces are 3D printed and customized to a person's needs and desires. Using color and pigment variations we can create the appearance of wood furniture and other "earthly" colors. Lighting is designed to align with circadian rhythms for a healthier, happier lifestyle. For safety and a sense of security, each habitat has a space suit for emergency situations.
Health and wellness are paramount to the human condition. We have to move, think and enjoy our spaces. People can trail run on a life size wheel in the Wellness space. Trail running is an excellent mental and physical workout as the runner navigates the complex terrain. The lounge and viewing ares let people explore the geology of the lava tube.
