Can We Build a Habitable City on the Moon for Less Than Ever Before?

Putting a man on the moon has long been regarded as one of the greatest technological achievements in human history, but it wasn't cheap. The Apollo missions, which sent 12 astronauts to the lunar surface, cost an astronomical sum of over ￡170 billion in modern terms. However, recent advancements in technology and innovative approaches to lunar exploration suggest that we might be able to establish a permanent base on the moon for a fraction of the cost.

Low-Cost Lunar Bases

According to a study by a group of NASA scientists, a permanent base on the moon capable of supporting 10 people could be built by 2022 for around ￡10 billion. This estimate is a significant drop from the historic Apollo missions and reflects the current landscape in space exploration, where partnerships with private companies and the utilization of existing technologies can make the endeavor more feasible.

Partnership with Private Companies

A detailed study commissioned by NASA, conducted by the National Space Society and the Space Frontier Foundation, suggests that partnering with private companies could reduce the cost of returning to the moon by 90%. The study estimates that a permanent lunar base could be established for around ￡24 billion. Partnering with commercial entities could provide a range of benefits, including practical solutions for life support, resource management, and transportation.

Utilizing Moon Resources

One of the innovative approaches to making lunar exploration cost-effective is the mining of resources from the moon. A recent study outlines the possibility of mining water from the lunar soil, processing it into hydrogen, which can then be used as fuel. This not only reduces the need for transporting resources from Earth but also provides a sustainable energy source for future space missions.

Technological Readiness

The technologies needed to support human life on the moon already exist, albeit in a modified form. NASA researchers suggest adapting technologies like self-driving cars and green toilet technology currently under development on Earth. Additionally, many life support systems, like water and air recycling systems, that are already used on the International Space Station (ISS) can be employed to create a habitable environment on the moon.

Site Selection and Construction

Choosing the right site for the lunar base is crucial. Survey robots can be sent to the moon to characterize the terrain, resources, and potential hazards. Astronauts can then land for short periods to begin construction, eventually expanding the base to accommodate up to 100 people within a decade.

The Future of Lunar Exploration

While NASA currently has no firm plans to return to the moon, the recent proposals suggest using robots and short manned missions to construct habitats. Dennis Wingo from spacecraft manufacturer SkyCorp suggests utilizing materials from meteors and the lunar soil for construction. New 3D printing technologies can also be employed to build structures from the lunar soil. Inflatable habitats developed by Bigelow Aerospace can provide shelter for astronauts.

Conclusion

Establishing a habitable city on the moon is not only technologically feasible but also economically viable. By leveraging existing technologies and potential commercial partnerships, we may soon see a future where the moon is no longer just a distant rock in the sky but a stepping stone for further exploration, including missions to Mars and beyond.

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