• Moon exploration thus far has been limited, with astronaut explorers only able to examine the moon’s surface for short periods of time as they need to return to their landing modules for life support. The new “camping system” could allow for two astronauts to take their time with research and exploration using a system that, deflated, takes up as much space as a refrigerator and weighs just 273 pounds.
  • The mobile shelter of 425 cubic feet space is divided into a changing area to help contain lunar dust, and a protected sleeping area. A portable solar array would power the shelter to activate its climate control, carbon dioxide eliminator, electricity, and battery recharge station for the rover, and operate the airlock. Oxygen, water and food would also be stored in the mobile shelter.
  • Although still in the research stage, MIT’s inflatable lunar camper could give astronauts more freedom when exploring the moon, by giving them longer access. The scientists hope that the dwelling could one day serve for overnight trips, as well as more permanent lunar exploration.

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