Martin Bermudez
Lunar Glass Structure (LUNGS): Enabling Construction of Monolithic Habitats in Low-Gravity Environment
Skyeports LLC
As part of a NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts (NIAC) study, we proposed constructing a large-scale, monolithic lunar glass habitat in a low-gravity environment. This innovative approach involves in-situ melting of lunar glass compounds and the creation of a large spherical shell structure, representing a significant departure from current habitat construction methods. Traditional construction methods, such as using prefabricated parts, 3-D printing, inflatable systems, and complex assembly, are labor-intensive and time-consuming. In contrast, the concept of blown scalable glass structures utilizes lunar glass resources and introduces a novel in-situ manufacturing approach. We propose utilizing existing microwave oven melting technology to melt lunar glass that will be collected from the lunar surface. Additionally, we will develop a smart microwave furnace to melt and blow the glass bubble sphere. By employing techniques used in large-scale glass manufacturing, this study aims to explore the feasibility of blowing large glass structures on the lunar surface. The idea of constructing monolithic glass habitats on the moon holds immense promise for the future of space exploration and habitation. It inspires a pioneering spirit by envisioning a new era of self-sustaining off-world habitats, offering significant benefits to NASA, the aerospace community, and humanity as a whole. The glass sphere habitat design takes advantage of the structural integrity of a sphere, minimizing gravitational potential and evenly distributing pressure. This unique design choice ensures resistance to the extreme conditions of the lunar environment, including the moon’s gravity and temperature variations, while providing a self-contained living space. Further study is required to assess the feasibility of this model under thermal vacuum lab conditions. The boldness of this vision is expected to capture the public’s interest, igniting curiosity and support for space exploration. Moreover, this innovative approach could stimulate economic growth by fostering advancements in glass manufacturing and construction technologies, potentially leading to spinoffs with applications beyond aerospace. The concept of constructing monolithic glass habitats on the moon represents a revolutionary departure from current construction practices and holds the potential to transform the future of space exploration and habitation. By leveraging lunar resources and innovative manufacturing techniques, this approach offers a promising solution for establishing self-sustaining, large-scale habitats on the lunar surface.
