Space Exploration 

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T3TRA Lunar_Station

Many argue that in aid of long term survival and preservation of biodiversity (Homo sapiens et al. species) it is fundamental that we spread to other planets. However, what is clear is that space exploration is conducive to research which will apply to conditions of the planet Earth. As we head into local unstable climate, the investigations will inform the resolve to extreme weather conditions such as floods, cold, heat waves, hurricanes, earthquakes and desertification phenomena, as well as help us understand how to manage the finite resources such as water. In addition to the pragmatic, the discovered data and celestial samples (fossils & fragments) will contribute to our comprehension of the tangible – physical and the observable – quantifiable theoretical truths. There is potential for the information we discover to help reveal the formation of the Solar System and indeed planet Earth.

Human intervention is necessary but it has to be in equilibrium with Nature. We have identified that as a minimum default we must be efficient, self-sufficient, coexist within the closed loop system(s), and allow ourselves to evolve. Our technology must be reusable with no singular use. Sustainability is a passive and durable method that supports biodiversity but is it enough?

We have observed that while we need to consume matter to generate energy in order to survive, it is precisely because of this awareness that it is our responsible duty to conduct strategies which inject energy back into the ecosystem that is conducive to life – as demonstrated by other species.

We must produce responsive architecture. That adapts to the variable conditions set by the Space context. Generate micro climates that humans can inhabit and grow genetically modified organisms for consumption and other energy applications as well as harvest water. Thus to continue the quest of space exploration, is to strive toward profound innovation.

Whilst colonisation implies permanence, surviving in deep space is more practical in short segments of time due to the natural – biological condition of the human body.

NASA research indicates that with long enough exposure to a micro gravity environment the human body begins to adapt to the climate of Space. However for the human body to evolve to a self sufficient, healthy and safe state without bone loss, muscle atrophy, cardiovascular issues (physiological to psychological), that is to say; independent of reliance on technology, would take extensive amount of time.

https://www.nasa.gov/content/men-women-spaceflight-adaptation

Life Sciences Data Archive (LSDA)

Lifetime Surveillance of Astronaut Health(LSAH)

Additional concern is the high probability of contamination and to ensure we preserve the natural integrity of Space and in this context, the Moon. These reasons drive the logic of the proposal; a lightweight – responsive – mobile/temporary – modular structural solution. We must generate the minimum required to sustain life and minimise reliance on the physical material. The digital platform is to provide the necessary stimulation and support.

The recreation of the iconic view of Earth from the Moon is intended to remind us of the original 1968 photograph which represents a shift of focus by inspiring ideas such as the “no boarders” movements. Rather than self-destruction people became concerned with the planet Earth as a whole; medicine, clean air/water for all, biodiversity and environmental protection – such is the aspiration.

The theory is that by “wearing architecture” (a digital computer/workstation and life support suit) we purge the material dependence. Remove reliance on extensive, mega-structured human built environment and objects in physical terms. The suit can be designed to feed stimulating signals through the senses to the brain which trigger memories and developed constructs by the brain which it then stitches together and creates a vivid (artificial) experience. This way you only have to train the brain in parallel with the suit and thus reduce requirement of excessive resource consumption. For example, for the first time but not the last, you hold a physical ball, you squeeze it and you bounce it and your brain records. You hold a physical apple for the first time but not the last, you bite it, you taste it and you smell it and the brain records. In unity with the suit you can now experience bouncing the ball within the digital realm. Of course, we cannot and should not sustain a full emersion into the digital realm. There would be minimum requirement of construction in combination with genetically modifying biological structure of trees (scale/mass) to grow into environments conducive to life (context we can occupy and coexist within) – a living organism architecture that heals and weathers with time. This would allow Earth a more natural state, creating a setting that is less polluted.

Space_Risks: Radiation / Vacuum / Low atmospheric pressure or none / Thermal Extremes / Proximity to Gravity Wells / Remoteness / Socio psychology

Mindful of variables, an architect’s role is to help conduct, design and coordinate all the specialist input (aerospace engineering, technology, construction et al.) into one coherent and ergonomic interpretation.

Ideas and innovation inspired and informed by nature allowing praxis – tangible intervention:

- Micro-Building/Structure

- Transforming layout

- Air tight/mechanical-multifunctional laboratory

- Ergonomic & conducive to life + Efficient + Safe + Self - Sustainable (cost effective)

- Structure with flex to absorb forces

- Flexible joints/junctions

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Reference: NASA / SpaceX / AskNature