Inflatable structures - A concept for lunar and Martian structures

Abstract

The paper discusses a modular inflatable structure concept for structures on Mars and the moon (where a human tended base will be constructed as a preliminary to a manned mission to Mars). Attention is also given to the environmental characteristics on the moon, Mars, and the earth, structural requirements for a generic structure for either moon or Mars, the moon/Mars design conditions, and the advantages of inflatable structures. Preliminary design calculations for a generic inflated module of size 6.1 x 6.1 x 3 m are presented.