Reflections on early lunar base design – From sketch to the first moon landing

Abstract

This paper traces the early ideas of lunar architecture developed by the US and Soviet space programs. Starting with a historical overview of those achievements, highlighting specific engineering, architectural, and design elements; illustrated with images and drawings. Some of them will be described in more detail, showing the design and decision-making process from the first sketch to its implementation. One example of the great engineering and management capabilities is the development and inclusion of the deployable lunar roving vehicle (LRV). Other examples include the project DLB Zvezda by Barmin's Design Bureau of General Engineering that was under development between 1962 and 1974, and a US project Horizon – a study to set up a Lunar Military outpost conducted in 1959. The paper includes personal statements from astronauts and cosmonauts, as well as people involved along design and implementation processes. Based on a historical overview of achievements, this paper highlights particular architectural and design unique approaches that defined design strategies for creating space systems, spacecraft and habitats for decades to follow.