Structures for the Moon

by Philip Y. Chow, T.Y. Lin Int, United States,
T. Y. Lin, T.Y. Lin Int, United States,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Engineering, Construction, and Operations in Space

Abstract:

Lunar structures present new challenges for structural engineers. By articulating lunar conditions in terms of various 'causes,' e.g. high transportation costs of materials, extremes in temperature, gravity and radiation, meteoroid bombardment, etc., 'effects' on structural design may be formulated. The key to producing optimum lunar structures lies in finding a construction material that is lightweight, transportable, able to support superimposed loads, rapidly deployable with minimum manpower, flexible in size and height, and economical in cost. The self-supporting fabric membrane will satisfy every requirement, and is proposed as the prime construction material for a lunar structure.

Subject Headings: Lunar materials | Construction materials | Shell structures | Space construction | Moon | Membranes | Space structures

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