ABSTRACT
ABSTRACT This paper discusses and compares advantages and disadvantages of different types of modular habitats that offer prospective uses to support human surface operations on the Moon and Mars. It also summarizes important considerations associated with surface placement and configuration options, including evolutionary growth capabilities, emergency egress features, launch and landing economies and deployment factors. Basic types of habitats addressed include “hard” fixed-volume modules with preintegrated utility systems and expandable-volume “inflatable” variations. Scenarios include combinations of both types that can optimize overall site development and operational benefits.
