The MOSS Project is a multidisciplinary initiative aimed at developing an advanced lunar outpost concept for future human missions. It focuses on reducing reliance on Earth resources through In-Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU) using lunar regolith. The project seeks to enhance the Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of ISRU techniques for constructing smart structures on the lunar surface, including sensor-embedded tiles and bricks.
Key aspects of the project has included:
- Site Selection: The Shackleton crater near the lunar South Pole was chosen among other possible destination for the outpost for its favorable sunlight exposure, communication coverage, and potential water ice deposits.
- Construction Techniques: The project proposes using a composite material made from lunar regolith and polyether ether ketone (PEEK), a thermoplastic polymer. This composite is lightweight, strong, and can be manufactured on-site, making it ideal for constructing tiles that form essential infrastructure, such as a landing pad. The tiles are designed to be stackable, facilitating repair and adaptability in harsh lunar conditions.
- Energy Sources: Nuclear fission reactors were identified as the most suitable power source for the lunar outpost, after a comparison with solar panels, providing continuous energy independent of the lunar day-night cycle. A power budget of 65 kWe was established to meet the needs of a six-person settlement.
- Landing Pad Design: A critical early step in the project is building a lunar landing pad (LLP) from interlocking tiles. This pad is designed to withstand landings of spacecraft like the European Large Logistic Lander. The structure also provides protection against lunar dust and micrometeorite impacts.
In conclusion, the MOSS project represents a milestone as a potential innovative approach to building sustainable lunar infrastructure leveraging local resources and cutting-edge technologies. The research publication that will be extracted will testify the solid contribution provided by this team to this challenging goal.