Martian Life-sustaining Yielding Asylum (MLYA)

This contest challenges us to design and build a habitat for extreme environments. The goal is to create a space where people can live comfortably and safely, even in the harshest conditions. The idea is to consider how these habitats can improve human well-being by embracing the unique surroundings of extreme environments. For my project, I designed a habitat for people to live on Mars. I chose Mars because it's one of the most exciting and challenging places for future human exploration. My design includes an observatory, a research lab, four rooms, a main lobby, an entertainment area, a garage, a restroom, greenhouses within the hallways, and a storage area. These features aim to make life on Mars not just possible, but enjoyable and sustainable.

I chose Mars for my habitat because it's a key focus for future human exploration and colonization. Mars presents many challenges, such as its harsh climate, high radiation levels, and lack of atmosphere. Overcoming these challenges can lead to great scientific discoveries and advancements. I selected a location near the equator of Mars for the habitat. This area receives more sunlight, crucial for solar power and maintaining a stable temperature. Additionally, it's closer to potential water ice deposits, which are essential for water supply and other resources.

Required materials for building the prototype

1) Computer with AutoCAD software: Used for designing the detailed blueprints and layout of the Mars habitat prototype.

2) Laser engraving/cutting machine: Utilized for precisely cutting the wood and cardboard according to the CAD designs.

3) 1/8" wood planks for laser cutting: Employed to create sturdy, detailed structural components and supports of the prototype.

4) 1/4" white cardboard: Used to construct the walls, floors, and other larger surfaces of the prototype, providing a lightweight yet robust base.

5) Cardboard cutting knife: Applied for manually trimming and adjusting the cardboard pieces to ensure accurate fitting and assembly.

6) Cutting mat: Served as a safe, protective surface for cutting materials without damaging the underlying work area.

7) Scissors: Used for cutting smaller pieces of materials and for making finer adjustments during assembly.

8) Superglue: Utilized for securely bonding various components of the prototype together, ensuring a stable and cohesive structure.

9) Ruler/Measuring tape: Employed to accurately measure dimensions of materials and ensure precise cutting and assembly.

10) Pen/Pencil/Marker: Used for marking measurements, labeling parts, and making notes during the design and construction process.

Autodesk software played a crucial role in designing and planning the habitat. Specifically, Fusion-360 was used to create detailed 3D models of the habitat's architecture and interior layout. These models allowed for precise visualization and simulation of the habitat's structure and functionality, enabling iterative design improvements and optimization. 

CAD plans showed exactly how everything should look and fit together. After that, we used a laser engraving and cutting machine to cut pieces from 1/8" wood planks and 1/4" white cardboard. The wood planks were used to make the strong parts of the structure, like the frame and supports. The cardboard was used to make the walls, floors, and other large surfaces.

We then used a cardboard cutting knife to trim and adjust the cardboard pieces so they fit just right. To make sure we didn’t damage the table, we cut on a cutting mat. For smaller cuts and fine adjustments, we used scissors. We glued the pieces together with superglue, making sure everything was securely attached. To ensure accuracy, we measured everything carefully with a ruler and measuring tape. We marked the materials with a pen, pencil, or marker to show where to cut and how to assemble them.

Each step was done with care to make sure the prototype was correct and strong. By following these steps, we were able to build a detailed and sturdy model of the Mars habitat.

The main lobby serves as a central gathering and socializing space for the habitat's inhabitants. It is designed with comfortable seating, communal areas, and entertainment options. The lobby provides a place for relaxation, social interaction, and community-building, which are essential for mental health and well-being. The design of the lobby encourages a sense of community and connection among the inhabitants.

The living quarters are designed to provide comfort and privacy for the inhabitants. There are four rooms, each equipped with a bed, storage space, and personal amenities. The design emphasizes a home-like environment, with comfortable furnishings and personal touches to help inhabitants feel at ease. The living quarters are also designed to be adaptable, allowing for customization based on individual preferences and needs.

The research lab is a key component of the habitat, supporting a wide range of scientific experiments and studies. It is equipped with cutting-edge tools and technology, including microscopes, spectrometers, and other analytical instruments. The lab will facilitate research on Martian soil, rocks, and potential biological samples, contributing to our understanding of Mars and aiding in the development of future technologies for space exploration.

The observatory is a vital part of the habitat, designed for scientific research and monitoring Mars' weather and environment. It is equipped with powerful telescopes and advanced sensors to study the Martian surface, atmosphere, and sky. The observatory will enable continuous monitoring of weather patterns, dust storms, and other environmental factors crucial for the safety and well-being of the habitat's inhabitants.

The entertainment area is essential for maintaining mental health and well-being in an isolated and challenging environment like Mars. It includes a variety of recreational activities, such as games, movies, and exercise equipment. The entertainment area provides a space for inhabitants to unwind, have fun, and stay physically active, helping to reduce stress and improve overall morale.

The restroom is a critical component of sanitation and hygiene. It is designed to maximize water efficiency and ensure proper waste management, which is vital for long-term living on Mars. The restroom includes advanced water recycling systems and composting toilets to minimize resource use and manage waste sustainably.

The storage area is vital for keeping supplies and equipment organized and accessible. It is designed with efficient shelving and storage systems to maximize space and ensure that all necessary items are easy to find. The storage area includes designated spaces for food, tools, spare parts, and other essential supplies, ensuring that everything is properly stored and readily available when needed.

The garage is designed for storing and maintaining rovers and other vehicles essential for exploration and transportation on Mars. It includes tools and equipment for vehicle maintenance, ensuring that all vehicles are in good working condition. The garage is also designed for efficiency and safety, with secure storage areas and proper ventilation to handle any potential hazards.

The greenhouses are integrated within the hallways, providing fresh food and oxygen for the habitat. They are designed for optimal plant growth, with controlled lighting, temperature, and humidity. The greenhouses contribute to the habitat’s sustainability by producing food and oxygen, and they also enhance the well-being of the inhabitants by providing a touch of nature and a pleasant, green environment.

Resilience means the habitat can handle Mars' tough conditions, like dust storms and extreme temperatures. Livability means it's a comfortable and pleasant place to live. My design focuses on both aspects to ensure the habitat can withstand the environment and provide its inhabitants with a good quality of life. To ensure comfort, I designed the living spaces to be spacious and included amenities like entertainment areas and greenhouses for a touch of nature. For safety, the habitat has strong radiation shielding and emergency protocols. Wellness is also a priority, with areas for recreation and green spaces to help with mental health and overall well-being.

Building on Mars presents unique challenges that require innovative solutions. The habitat's construction involves modular assembly using prefabricated components transported from Earth. These modules are designed to withstand launch and landing stresses and can be assembled robotically upon arrival. Martian regolith is utilized in construction. This approach reduces reliance on imported resources and minimizes costs associated with transporting materials from Earth. 

The habitat on Mars uses climate-responsive design principles, including insulation, UV-resistant materials, and aerodynamic shapes to maintain a stable living environment. Smart materials, such as self-healing polymers and adaptive coatings, enhance functionality and efficiency. Renewable energy sources like solar panels and wind turbines provide sustainable power, reducing reliance on external resources. In-situ resource utilization, such as Martian regolith minimizes Earth-imported materials and transportation costs. Advanced technologies, such as sensor networks for real-time monitoring, automated systems for resource management, and integrated communication systems, enhance functionality and safety. These technologies ensure the well-being of inhabitants and facilitate collaboration with Earth and other Martian outposts.

The design of the Mars habitat draws inspiration from Earth's architectural traditions while adapting to Martian conditions. Earth-based principles, such as efficient space utilization and sustainable design, are applied to enhance functionality and comfort. Cultural influences from diverse architectural styles are integrated into the habitat's aesthetic and functional elements, creating a sense of familiarity and connection for its inhabitants.

The Mars habitat represents a significant step towards expanding human habitation beyond Earth, setting a precedent for future space exploration and colonization efforts. Lessons learned from designing and operating the habitat can be applied to address challenges on Earth, such as disaster relief shelters and sustainable urban development. The development of advanced technologies and innovative design approaches for Mars habitats contributes to broader advancements in architecture, engineering, and environmental sustainability, shaping the future of human habitation both on Earth and beyond.

Real-world applications of the Mars habitat include addressing Earth's challenges, such as climate-responsive design, sustainable construction materials, and renewable energy technologies. These innovations can be adapted for use in disaster relief shelters, remote rural communities, and areas vulnerable to environmental hazards like wildfires and coastal flooding.

The Mars habitat demonstrates how embracing extreme environments can enhance human well-being by integrating green spaces, recreational areas, and advanced technology. By prioritizing human-centric design and holistic well-being, future habitat projects can create spaces that not only meet basic survival needs but also nurture human potential and happiness.

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Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica. “Scientists May Have Found a Material for Building on Mars.” Wired, Conde Nast, 27 Sept. 2020, www.wired.com/story/scientists-may-have-found-a-material-for-building-on-mars/.

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Space Architecture: These Materials Can Be Used to Build ..., www.constructionweekonline.com/analysis/space-architecture-these-materials-can-be-used-to-build-on-mars. Accessed 15 July 2024.

Torbet, Georgina. “How We’ll Build a Base with Breathable Air on Mars.” Digital Trends, Digital Trends, 30 Mar. 2021, www.digitaltrends.com/web/how-to-build-a-mars-base-habitat/.

Ventana al Conocimiento (Knowledge Window)                            Scientific journalism                           Estimated reading time    Time           6         to rea, et al. “How to Build Bases on the Moon and Mars 🚀 🌔.” OpenMind, 31 Mar. 2022, www.bbvaopenmind.com/en/technology/future/build-bases-on-the-moon-and-mars/.

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