Intermediate Martian Habitat Study and Demonstrator

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Intermediate Martian Habitat Study and
Demonstrator

• Donovan Chipman
• Andrew Ning
• Prof. David Allred

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Acknowledgements

• David Bushman, Loyal Alumni
• John E. Ellsworth- Vacuum electrical
• Electrical C Engineering Roots pumps

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Outline

• Problem and proposed solution.
• Advantages of solution.
• Construction and operation issues.
• Specific design example.
• Demonstrator.
• Conclusions.

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Problem Statement

• Spacesuits are bulky for EVA work.
• Pure oxygen environments are dangerous for
  pre-breathing.
• Energy intensive to remove gases such as oxygen
  and inert gases from Martian environment.

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Solution

• Construct an inflatable structure that uses
  Martian atmosphere (carbon dioxide) as a
  pressurant.

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Advantages

• Pressurized - No need for a spacesuit, just
  breathing gear and clothes
• Large and/or portable working environment
• Protected from elements

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Applications

• Vehicle Hangar/Garage
• Construction
• Green Houses
• Manufacturing
• Portable Science Lab
• Emergency Shelter

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Structure

• Lightweight.
• Built to withstand 6 psi.
• Size can vary.

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Pressurization

• Many options possible.
• Roots blower is a very good option because its
  optimal working pressure is nearly that of Mars
  atmosphere.

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Roots Blower Compression
Data courtesy of Leybold-Hereaus Inc.
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Enclosure Materials

• Light and cheap because the structure may not be
  permanent.
• Aluminized mylar may be produced using local
  materials.
• Various methods for radiation protection.

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Entry/Exit Methods

• Small inflatable airlock for regular crew
  passage. Could connect to base.

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Large Systems Exit

• Rotating Door.
• Sliding Door.
• Garage Style Door.

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Animation
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Consider a Design. . .

• Power and time trade offs- assume a
• 6750 m3 structure
• 4 hr inflation time
• Requires 3.37 x 10 5 m3 of Martian atmosphere to
  be compressed.

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Power Systems for 4-hr Inflation.

• Solar Panels for considered system would cover
  three football fields.
• Nuclear fission reactors for max power levels is
  around 40 tonnes.

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Demonstrator
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Components
Vacuum chamber with arm shown for scale.
(Diameter of about two cubits!)
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Vacuum Pump
Standard Roots Blower
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Concept Structure
This is a modular aluminum frame. The inflatable
habitat section would hang from such a structure.
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Goals and Conclusions

• Complete current study and build larger test
  structures.
• ANY QUESTIONS?