Space Architecture - Human Habitats Beyond Planet Earth

Space Architecture - Human Habitats Beyond Planet Earth

For many, the idea of Space Architecture as a discipline lies in the domain of science fiction, where everything is possible simply because it happens ‘very far in the future’. Is Space Architecture a fiction or reality? This book explores if and how architectural principles and strategies need to be transformed when applied to the extreme conditions of outer space. It presents concepts developed by great minds in the fields of space exploration and science-fiction, ones which can inspire new ways into the future. 

The book also presents the philosophy of Space Architecture, arguing for example that the design of space habitats needs to be human-centred while defining ways for humans to co-exist in new environments. These views are complemented by examples of architectures from current and planned space missions, organised by private companies as well as government agencies.

Content

Introduction: Why space architecture

The Milennium Charter for Space Architecture

Categories for Action

Pragmatic Parameters of Space Architecture

The Four Domains of Habitat Design

Architectural Principles and Strategies in Extreme Environments on Earth

Architectural Principles and Strategies in Space

The Beginning: Dreams and Reality of the Dawn of the Space Era

Visionary Projects for Shaping the Future

Real Challenges of Human Space Flight

Humans in Space: What they need and what they want

Human requirements

Design Guidelines: Influencing Factors

Functions and Activities: Who, What, and How

Form-Giving Factors: Environment, Site, and Quality of Design

Constraints

Design Guidelines: Connecting with the future of humans in space

Current Technology Gaps and Requirements for Sustaining Human Presence in Space

Verification of the Habitability of an Artificial Environment for the Crew

What is next? The role of space architecture in human space exploration

Bibliography

About the author and contributors

Acknowledgements

About the author

Dr. Olga Bannova Prof.

Research Associate Professor, Cullen College of Engineering, University of Houston

Member of AIAA Space Architecture Technical Committee (SATC) – chair for 2020-2022 term