HABITAT DEPLOYMENT

The units are packed during transport. The diameter of each unit is 5m when packed. Once on the lunar surface, the top opens up first. The membrane is anchored on the top and the bottom of the unit. By moving up, the top releases the outer shell.

These panels have dual functionality: after deployment they give the unit stability and during transport, they protect the membrane. The inflating begins, the membrane is attached to metal frames, which are pulled into place with inflation. Following the curvature of the membrane, the metal frames ensure a stable structure. The membrane contains 3 flexible airlock adapters. To ensure the metal frames fit, the max. length of each is equal to the height of the 1st floor, 273cm, which resulted into the angle and shape of the habitat.