Space Architecture and Habitability: An Asset in Aerospace Engineering and Architectural Curricula

Abstract

Space Architecture is interdisciplinary; it connects diverse fields such as aerospace engineering, architecture and design, human factors design, space sciences, medicine, psychology, and art. Space Architecture combines the accuracy of technical systems, human needs for working and living, the interface design for the relationship between humans, and the built and natural environments. It is simultaneously technical, humanistic, and artistic and deals – most importantly - with the design process from a “big picture” perspective down to every detail of each component. In addition to traditional knowledge of planning and building processes, special knowledge is needed regarding how to design for humans in extreme environments and how to do so creatively. Many universities around the world offer aerospace engineering undergraduate and graduate programs, but only a few relate to the field of Space Architecture. This paper presents examples of educational practices illustrated with student projects from European and US academic institutions that offer space architecture as a mainstream or major component in their curriculum. It further explores the necessity of incorporating the discipline of Space Architecture and Habitability into aerospace engineering and architectural curricula.