Construction of Large Lunar Structures by Fusion Welding of Sintered Regolith

by R. S. Crockett, Univ of Arizona, Tucson, United States,
B. D. Fabes, Univ of Arizona, Tucson, United States,
T. Nakamura, Univ of Arizona, Tucson, United States,
C. L. Senior, Univ of Arizona, Tucson, United States,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Engineering, Construction, and Operations in Space IV

Abstract:

Regardless of material used, construction of large lunar structures using indigenous resources is likely to requires joining of simple blocks or pieces. Fusion welding using an optical waveguide solar energy system is proposed for joining bricks of sintered regolith to make large lunar structures. Sintered regolith is especially receptive to fusion welding, and an optical waveguide solar energy system provides thermal energy for both joining and initial sintering of components. A design for self-supporting radiation shielding is described to illustrate the feasibility of this system.

Subject Headings: Lunar materials | Solar power | Space construction | Construction materials | Welding | Regolith | Solar thermal power

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