moon_camp
discovery interactive image

Moon Camp Pioneers 2022 – 2023 Project Gallery

 

In Moon Camp Pioneers, each team’s mission is to 3D design a complete Moon Camp using the software of their choice. They also have to explain how they will use local resources, protect astronauts from the dangers of space and describe the living and working facilities in their Moon Camp.

conquer the moon

郑州轻工业附属中学  河南省郑州市-金水区    China 18   2 / 0 English
3D design software: Fusion 360



1.1 – Project Description

  1. Our lunar campsite is divided into a central living area and an external planting area, a research area, a mining area, a signal transmission area, etc. The living area includes basic cabins such as bedrooms, restaurants, main control rooms, and gyms. All cabin walls are constructed in a pattern of titanium carbon fiber water calcium oxide (insulation material) composite material (radiation resistant material) titanium from the inside out. The outermost layer also has a 1.6 meter thick protective layer made of special lunar soil material.
  2. We plan to conduct scientific research, experiments, and research on the development of the moon while ensuring the safety and habitation of astronauts. We will use lunar rock slabs to absorb heat and store it in a heat collection device, which will provide heat to each compartment through pipelines. In addition, we have electromagnetic ejection escape devices and capsule shaped escape pods that can escape the moon in a timely manner in major dangerous situations.

1.2 – Why do you want to build a Moon Camp? Explain the main purpose of your Moon Camp (for example scientific, commercial and/or touristic purposes).

Our lunar campsite is mainly used for scientific research, exploring the mysteries of the universe, the origin of humanity, and the resources on the moon. What resources are there that can better and more easily meet the needs of oxygen, water, and energy on the moon. Used to explore the cultivation of lunar plants, how to plant them well, and how to make Earth’s plants more productive. These scientific studies have made significant contributions to the plan for more people to live on the moon.

2.1 – Where do you want to build your Moon Camp? Explain your choice.

We plan to build our lunar camp in the Antarctic Aitken Basin in the Mare Smythii. The Mare Smythii is located on the back of the moon. Its center is located at 87.7 degrees south latitude and 126.9 degrees west longitude. There are 11 middle scale Yuhai bottom rupture impact craters. There may be some deep depressions or cracks below them, so that water ice can be stored stably there. The selected area has high levels of FTA, OL, and CPX, which can be used to produce oxygen and extract metals such as iron and titanium to meet the potential long-term human living needs. From the perspective of maintaining the energy required for the operation of scientific research stations, this area has the strongest lunar surface light intensity and is one of the most ideal areas for obtaining solar energy during the day on the moon.

2.2 – How do you plan to build your Moon Camp? Consider how you can utilise the Moon’s natural resources, and which materials you would need to bring from Earth. Describe the techniques, materials and your design choices.

For the construction of the base, we plan to build our lunar camp in three steps:

Step 1: We plan to simulate the assembly process on Earth first, and then send the living area module to the moon, using a robot to assemble the base. The materials used come from Earth, such as titanium, aluminum, silicic acid, etc

Step 2: Send the astronauts and subsequent modules to the moon, gradually improving the experimental area, planting area, etc. The planting area may be combined with the crater, which is conducive to the extraction of lunar ice.

Step 3: We plan to extract materials from the lunar soil weathering layer locally and use a large 3D printing device to construct a 1.6 meter thick radiation protection layer outside the necessary modules.

In addition, we plan to supply energy from the Earth belt (solar panels, generators, etc.), oxygen compressors and air purifiers, support structures (including buildings, pillars, connectors, brackets, and expansion hinges, etc.), water supply systems (advanced water purification and recovery equipment), Communication equipment (including communication satellites, communication equipment, computers, network connections, etc.) Life support systems (including life support systems, toilets, beds, catering, etc.), scientific research equipment (including astronomical equipment, laboratory equipment, etc.).

2.3 – How does your Moon Camp protect and provide shelter to your astronauts against the Moon’s harsh environment?

We mainly consider radiation, micro meteorites, and temperature issues regarding the dangers on the moon.

  1. For radiation issues: We use three modules: basic isolators, elastic cables, and Whipple shielding technology, as well as lunar soil special materials to prevent radiation hazards to astronauts. Then we will add a layer of water layer inside the wall, which can effectively absorb and disperse radiation. This can minimize the harm of radiation.
  2. For the issue of micro meteorites: We have a special outer layer material protection layer, and the walls are constructed with titanium, which can withstand small meteorites and high temperature fluctuations. In addition, we also use radar to detect (micro) meteorites in case a decision is made in advance.
  3. For the temperature problem: we use efficient thermal insulation materials such as graphite, glass fiber and aerogel to reduce the heat transfer of indoor and outdoor air, and avoid the impact of outdoor temperature fluctuations on indoor temperature. Utilize fans, air conditioning, and other devices to maintain the stability of the base temperature, and use energy systems such as solar panels to provide the necessary cold and heat sources internally.

3.1 – How will your Moon Camp provide astronauts with sustainable access to basic needs like water, food, air and power?

After the base is established, astronauts will use lunar rovers to carry mining tools and robots to mine nearby lunar ice, thereby melting, filtering, and purifying to obtain pure water. We plan to do it two to three times a week, with some directly transported to the living area and some stored in water storage devices. In addition, the filtrate of urine can also be chemically transformed into an adhesive by converting the acid groups on the polymer chain into ester groups, changing its properties.
Food is essential for astronauts, and early astronauts will consume food brought from Earth. Of course, the food brought over won’t last long, so astronauts will build a planting area after the basic facilities are established, and use hydroponic and aerial cultivation techniques to plant some plants: eggplants, potatoes, tomatoes, and other plants that can supplement different nutrients. Considering long-term development, we are also preparing to study how to use lunar soil to cultivate plants.
In our power system, solar panels will be used for daily basic energy generation, and we will also utilize a large amount of helium-3 on the moon to replenish our electrical energy. Convert it into direct current and store it in a battery using chemical energy. When electricity is needed, convert the chemical energy into direct current and then convert it into alternating current for power supply.
Initially, we would extract some oxygen from the lunar weathering layer or rocks (which requires mixing oxygen and nitrogen gases according to the composition of the surface atmosphere in order for the human body to breathe directly). For nitrogen, we would bring it from Earth. We can also use molten electrolysis to extract air. we are also preparing to use a lens to heat the ground to 2500 degrees to extract oxygen.

3.2 – How will your Moon Camp deal with the waste produced by the astronauts on the Moon?

Recycling and Reuse: Our lunar campsite will establish a closed environment similar to the International Space Station, allowing waste generated by astronauts to be recycled and reused. For example, feces and urine can be processed into fertilizer or water, which can be used for life support systems or crop cultivation purposes.
Oxidative decomposition: Waste can be oxidized and decomposed through an oxidation reactor. An oxidation reactor involves mixing organic waste with oxidants such as hydrogen peroxide and placing them in a container for reaction under high temperature conditions. Through this reaction, organic substances react with oxidants to produce safer substances such as water and carbon dioxide. Then, water and carbon dioxide are used for photosynthesis, producing food and providing oxygen.
Compressed storage: Solid waste, large pieces of waste, etc. can be compressed and stored in special containers, waiting for future recycling or garbage cleaning tasks.

3.3 – How will your Moon Camp maintain communications with Earth and other Moon bases?

Our lunar camp will use signal towers and radars to establish communication with satellites, which can be used to receive signals from Earth and provide a return path for transmitting information such as images, data, and voice, maintaining communication between the camp and Earth. Then make contact with Earth and other lunar campsites. In addition, radio can also be used to achieve communication with the Earth. After the completion of maintenance and commissioning, the radio needs to consider factors such as electromagnetic wave propagation to ensure high-quality communication.
In addition, our lunar campsite has an electromagnetic ejection device that uses electromagnetism to eject capsule shaped capsules. After setting the speed and planning the route, they can be transmitted to other lunar campsites to establish face-to-face communication between astronauts.

4.1 – What scientific topic(s) would be the focus of the research in your Moon Camp? Explain which experiments you plan to do on the Moon (for example in the topics of geology, low gravity environment, biology, technology, robotics, astronomy etc.).

Geology will be our research focus.

Rock and soil collection: In order to understand the geological history and characteristics of the moon, samples can be collected for analysis. These samples can be collected through drilling or robots and analyzed for their chemical and physical properties.
Seismic monitoring: There is less seismicity on the moon than on the earth, but they provide useful information about the internal structure of the moon. Sensors for monitoring earthquakes can be deployed on the lunar surface to record and analyze collected data.
Gravity measurement: By measuring the gravity field on the moon using a gravimeter, one can understand the internal structure and composition of the moon. These measurements can be made from low altitude orbiters or lander.
Magnetic field measurement: By measuring the magnetic field on the surface of the moon, one can gain an understanding of the physical processes inside the moon. These measurements can be made through orbiters or aircraft.
Surface topographic survey: In order to establish the geological map of the moon surface, laser altimeter or radar and other instruments can be used for surface topographic survey. These measurements can help determine the size and shape of various geological features on the moon.
Heat flow measurement: By measuring the temperature gradient on the surface and below the moon, one can understand the heat flow and geological history inside the moon. These measurements can be made using drilling instruments or robots.

5.1 – What would you include in your astronaut training programme, to help prepare the astronauts for a Moon mission?

Astronauts need to undergo three types of training:

The first type is professional basic training: as an astronaut, the first step is to receive training in professional basic theoretical knowledge, such as atmosphere, astronomy, geophysics, space dynamics, communication, computers, etc. These training are all related to aerospace, medicine, and physiology. By improving the basic knowledge of these majors, a solid foundation can be laid for the future.
The second type is flight mission training: astronauts must have a robust physique, and on this basis, they must also undergo strict physical training. Overweight endurance training: Rockets usually have extremely high acceleration during takeoff, and without training, the astronaut’s body cannot tolerate it. Simulating such training can help astronauts maintain a clear mind and adapt to and complete flight tasks; Weightlessness training: During the orbital flight, the spacecraft is often in a microgravity environment, in which the astronauts often have dizziness, which affects the operation. Therefore, it is necessary to simulate the weightlessness of Huangjing to help astronauts eliminate their fear of weightlessness. Under weightlessness conditions, astronauts need to complete exercises such as putting on and off spacesuits, eating, and walking. The universe and spacecraft are special environmental factors, and astronauts must improve their tolerance through training.
The third type is vocational skills training: astronauts need to stay on the moon for a long time, complete some experiments, scientific research, resource exploration, and other content. They also need to master the knowledge of completing scientific experiments and the ability to operate various machines.

These trainings are aimed at enabling astronauts to live a normal life on the moon, complete scientific research, and explore the moon.

5.2 – What space vehicles will your future Moon mission need? Describe the vehicles found in your Moon camp and consider how you will travel to and from Earth, and explore new destinations on the Moon’s surface.

The lunar mission spacecraft needs to be able to accommodate and carry a large enough load, as traveling from Earth to the moon requires carrying a lot of materials and supplies, and the spacecraft needs to be able to bear these things. The spacecraft will dock with the space station in space, replenish energy from the station, and fly to the moon.

On the moon, astronauts assemble detachable lunar rover modules brought from the moon, which can complete resource exploration and collection. (These detachable lunar rovers and exploration robots are all modules configured from Earth and assembled on the moon)
On the moon, small rockets brought from Earth will be assembled and controlled by Earth members to fly to Earth
We assemble a detection robot that can detect resources and terrain, analyze the suitability of the site for building a base, and provide feedback to astronauts.

Other projects: