Habitat composition images are extremely effective, expressing the scheme as one of the most buildable and feasible. While the concept as an extension to the existing ISS is a simple but effective design. Perhaps requires an over all explanation and exploration of the units with respect to full time circulation and habitation.
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October 11, 2013 at 11:27 am |
Another exciting project. And as the comment states one of more feasible and buildable. I like the fact there are two sides to your project – the technical but there is also a great emphasis on the human factor. As I understand the proposed units add to the ISS new and more comfortable environments which ISS lacks at the moment. The fact the modules can be re-arranged in different compositions is definitely a strong point of the proposal. The size of the modules are realistic and could fit into future SLS vehicles, also the introduction of composite materials would make the structure much lighter and even safer.
Is the ISS extension for one purpose only or did you envision more scenarios, different usages? I also wonder on where are all the “technical” things stored? The interior of the modules are exciting and the space usage inside them would be truly revolutionary but I wonder where do you store all the life-supporting systems, water, etc.. Also I suppose you would have to “buff-up” the existing ISS power production for this new addition…
Lastly – do you think this kind of concept could be used for longer-term travel or habitation?
October 11, 2013 at 1:51 pm |
Hello everyone and thanks for your comments. With this project I was mainly concerned with human well-being and upgrading current living conditions through architecture- by creating more flexible, ergonomic spaces, with more windows, space where you can move more freely, feel and explore microgravity in a different, new way.
@Morgan: Storage is kind of ‘put out of the way’ in the rounded end parts of modules, so there’s more central living and working space. Space suits are stored in airlock modules, attached to velcro inside ‘walls’ of an airlock.
In modules there are more human friendly materials (wooden element, textiles..), more windows for space exploration, better orientation in space in relation to Earth and a multifunctional construction system (within it, there are installation cores), which serve as space furniture. The construction is inspired by ancient water microorganisms Diatoms (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diatom), with their intricate and delicate looking, but very strong silicate outer shell structures. So I made an inner skeleton of modules inspired by diatom structures, for I wanted to create a very flexible but soft interior, like some kind of a contrast to the outside harsh and extremely unfriendly space environment. These structure allowed me to give space visitor a chance to choose and create his own world in modules, according to his aspirations. In sleep model for example, the visitor can choose 3 forms of sleeping positions: straining a sleeping bag, a sleeping cocoon for more privacy, or just strapping oneself to the velcro ‘walls’ -this variety could be warmly welcomed on long term space flights.
If thinking about long term space flight, the habitat would need an additional propulsion system, life support system (the current habitat would use ISS support system ECLSS), photovoltaic or algae systems for generating power / electricity, more aeroponic gardens for some additional food production, some empty modules for fuel, food, propulsion system, life support system..Shortly, the habitat could be used for longer space flights, but my point with the project was elsewhere. I wanted to put spotlight on a human element and as I am aware how insanely important it is technology to human survival in space, I also think that that’s exactly why we forget that human beings need more that food, water, work and sleep to survive.
I am also enclosing some additional sketches, hope they can be even further explanatory.
Have a nice day, Mateja