Lunar Power Solution

Lunar Night Survival is an international project that proposes a scalable power generation and distribution system to enable a sustained presence on the Moon. This project began at International Space University's Space Studies Program where we and a team of 35 international space professionals met and received the challenge: develop a power solution to survive the lunar night.

Based on roadmaps for Moon exploration, the Lunar Night Survival team created a common vision to develop a sustained human and robotic presence on the Moon and contribute to future activities in an international setting and cooperation.

The several of the lunar power cell towers distributed across the moon landscape with astronauts walking in suits and the earth visible in the distance.Partner logos. International Space University. European Space Agency. National Aeronautics and Space Administration.

SCALABILITY

More subunits can be added and new technologies can be incorporated with new power demands.

REDUNDANCY

The Power Cell stores energy to support critical Life Support Systems throughout a two-week lunar night, enabling operations even if the primary generation fails.

STANDARDIZATION

Standard dimensions of sub-units and the Power Cell. The adaptable structure of the Power Cell allows easy integration of new technologies.

FAST DEPLOYMENT

The Power Cell is fully operational within a few hours of landing.

FLEXIBILITY

The Power Cell can be easily relocated to reconfigure the grid, accommodating the evolving infrastructure.

A Lunar Power Cell tower un close with an astronaut accessing it. It is 8.5 meters in full height, 5.5 meters collapsed, but with landing struts extended, and finally only 4.0 meters when completely packed up. It's width is 2.5 meters when the solar panels are closed.

HUMAN CENTRIC

The cell is designed from a human centric perspective so it can be serviced and operated by astronauts. All critical parts are easily accessible. Lights are placed around the subunits' surface to provide an easy and intuitive indication of the Power Cell's health by changing color.

Technical overview of the power cell with each component labelled. The components are: Solar panels, pivot joints, avionics, controller, lithium batteries, heat exchanger, power cables, cryogenic tanks, fuel cells, foldable radiators, control unit, lithium batteries, pistons, control panels, fission reactors, stirling engines, propellant tanks, nozzles, and foldable legs