Analysis and Design of a Logistic-to-Green Approach for a Lunar Greenhouse Module

Abstract

Today, human space exploration is increasingly moving toward long-term space travel. Various space agencies are developing plans to return first to the Moon and then to the Martian surface. Such an ambitious project requires efforts in areas such as life support systems and locally produced food. This thesis addresses cargo security, which should ensure the safe transfer of equipment to the Moon. It is important for the EDEN NG GTD project, which aims for a dual-use approach. Meaning that it involves using the module first as a transportation carrier and then as a greenhouse. Extensive research was conducted on various cargo carriers from the past and present to filter out the cargo restraints used. Based on this, different calculations were performed regarding different load arrangements and combinations of transport bags at different positions in the greenhouse section. Furthermore, requirements explicitly for load securing were developed to adapt to the already given greenhouse requirements. The results show that the packaging material for load securing has a large share in the total mass of the module. Since the racks will contain the plant trays after landing on-site, uses should also be found for the transportation bags and belts. Therefore, developments such as modifying usual transportation bags to achieve more recycling possibilities need to be considered.