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University of Toronto Space Design Competition
Space Colony Proposal
The
Tesus Space Colony
Mike Kapps
Thornhill Secondary School
January 2, 2005
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The Tesus Space Colony
Table of Contents
Judging Guide Judging Guide for Content vi
Section 1: Introduction 1.1: Foreword
1.2: Space Colonization1.3: Proposal Purpose
1.4: Proposal Highlights
1
2.1: General Process
2.2: Materials
2.2.1: General Materials
2Section2: Construction
and Materials
2.2.2: Smart Materials
2.3: Assembly
3
Section 3: Positioning 3.1: Background3.2: Orbit3.3: Gravitational Production
3.4: Positioning Summary
4
4.1: General Structure
4.2: Torus
4.2.1: Transportation4.2.2: Elevator Design
4.2.3: Buildings
5
4.3: Outer Covering
4.3.1: Artificial Sky
4.3.2: Protection from the elements4.3.2.1: Exterior Shape Deformation Control
6
4.3.2.2: Collisions with Meteors
4.3.2.3: Ionizing Radiation
4.3.2.4: Interior Temperature Control
4.3.3: Power4.3.3.1: Solar Power
7
4.3.3.2: Heel-Strike Generator Using
Electrostrictive Polymers
4.3.4: Propulsion4.4: Inner Core
4.4.1: Communications
8
4.4.2: Control Headquarters4.4.3: Fluids and Wastes Processing
4.4.3.1: Water Filtration
4.4.3.2: Waste Management4.4.3.2.1: Waste Collection
9
Section 4: Structure and
Operations
4.4.3.2.2: Waste Processing and Recycling
4.4.3.2.3: Removal of Unrecyclable Wastes
4.4.4: The Biodome
10
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4.4.5: Airport/Construction Yard4.4.5.1: Airport
4.4.5.2: Construction Yard
4.5: Human Physiological Factors
11
Section 5: NanoSpace
Technology
5.1: Nano-materials for the hulls of spacecraft
5.2: Swarms
5.2.1: Swarms5.2.2: Smart Cloth
5.2.3: Astronaut Space Suit
5.2.4: Swarm Application in Construction
12
6.1: Lunar Mining
6.1.1: Mining Shuttle6.1.1.1: Hull
6.1.1.2: Ion Drive
6.1.1.3 Ion Drive Manipulation
13Section 6: Industries
6.1.2: Refinement6.2: Near Earth Objects
6.3: SMA Space Suits6.3.1: Augmenting Human Performance
6.3.2: Mechanical Counter Pressure
14
Section 7: Costs, Time
and Future Expansion
7.1: Costs and Time
7.2: Future Expansion
15
Figures Title Page Figures 16
Figures: Torus
Structural Elements
2.1.1: Torus sectional piece
2.1.2: General cross section of Torus
17
2.2.2.2: Work force of actuator materials
2.2.2.3: Power of actuator materials
18Figures: Properties of
Smart Materials
2.2.2.4: Functionality of EAPs in space temperature
environments
19
2.3: Assembly (1-3) 20
Assembly (4-7) 21
Figures: Assembly
Assembly (8-11) 22
Figures: Transportation 4.2.1.1: Lateral escalator (transportation mats)
4.2.1.2: Transportation layout
4.2.2: Elevator Design
23
Figures: Structures
within the Torus
4.2.3.1: A view from inside
4.2.3.2: Building Layout
24
Figures: Applications of
SMAs
4.3.2.1.1: The Martensite and Austenite phases
4.3.2.1.2: The dependency of phase change on loading4.3.2.1.3: Microscopic diagram of the shape memory
effect
25
Figures: Polymer heel-
strike generator
4.3.3.2.1: Placement of dielectric elastometer
4.3.3.2.2: Principle of electroactive polymer generator
4.3.3.2.3: Other application of electroactive polymers:an artificial muscle design
26
Figures: Propulsion andCommunications
4.3.4.1: Perpetual rotation process4.3.4.2: The lateral projection process
27
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4.4.1.1: A concept of inflatable lenticular antenna with
distributed pneumatic actuators
4.4.1.2: Top view of communications
Figures: Fluids and
Waste Processing and
the Biodome
4.4.3: Fluids and Waste Processing
4.4.4: Biodome General layout
28
Figures: Airport andHuman Factors
4.4.5.1: Airport general layout4.5: Human Factors
29
Figures: Nano-spaceTechnology
5.2.1: Nanorobotics-based swarms5.2.2: Bucky tube strand
5.2.3: Smart cloth space suit
30
6.1: Mining process
6.1.1: Mining shuttle design
31Figures: Mining of
Space Materials
6.1.1.2: Ion drive 32
6.1.2.1: Aluminium processing 32Figures: Metal
Processing 6.1.2.2: Titanium processing 33
Figures: Mining of NearEarth Objects
6.2.1: NEO shuttle design 33
Figures: Space Suit 6.3.1: Active ankle foot orthosis
6.3.2: Shrinking SMA garment
Includes assorted images
34
Figures: Project
Schedule
7.1: Project Schedule 35
References References 36
Appendix Appendix 38
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Judging GuideThis judging guide is included within the Tesus Space Colony proposal as a way
of facilitating the judging process. Each Content section below is grouped with several
applicable categories in the proposal.
Content
[Construction] Section 2: Construction and Materials (Including general construction, materials
and assembly diagram)
[Structure] Introductory figures (page ii) Section 4: Structure and Operations, and related figures
[System and Operation] Section 2: Positioning, and related figures Section 4: Structure and Operations, and related figures:
o Transportation
o Powero Protection from the Elementso Propulsiono All Inner Core subcategorieso Elevator design
[Community] Section 4: Structure and Operations, and related figures:
o Buildings
o Protection from the Elements
o Inner Core subcategories: Communications Biodome
Fluids and Waste Processing
o Human Physiological Factors
[Economics] Section 6: Industries, and related figures
[Expansion] Section 7: Costs, Time and Future Expansion:
o Future Expansion and related figure
[Schedule and Costs] Section 7: Costs, Time and Future Expansion:
o Costs and Time and related figures Section 3: Assembly figure
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Section 1 [Introduction]
1.1 [Foreword]
Man, from his very beginning, has always dreamt of travelling to space, but the
opportunity was always difficult to reach. Now, TSS inc. can make mans ultimate dreamcome true. With the introduction of the Tesus Space Colony, a self-sustaining economic
and residential centre, space will finally become inhabitable for the population of Earth.
1.2 [Space Colonization]
Why live on the Tesus Space Colony?
For people employed on the colony by a series of commercially profitable enterprises:
Mining minerals from the Moon and NEOs and transporting them back to Earth orrefining them to build space shuttles or related space structures
Manufacturing unique materials and nano-structures in weightlessness Performing unique medical experiments in weightlessness Launching and supporting near-space expeditions Deep-space observation without atmospheric diffraction (akin to Hubble Telescope)
For people on a short or long-term stay on the colony (fee: $20,000 per week):
The lack of high-quality (e.g., secluded) residential space on Earth has become anever-increasing problem. The Tesus Space Colony will create a comfortable
environment for the upper class to live in either during a long-term retirement orshort-term vacation
The space colony is outfitted with hundreds of commercial, recreational andaesthetically pleasing areas that suit customers every needs, such as movie
theatres, spas, shopping centres, casinos, and weightless attraction parks
The Tesus Space Colony provides astounding views of space and the Moon1.3 [Proposal Purpose]
The goal of TSS Inc. is to effectively build an accommodating space colony that
runs efficiently and generates profit. The Tesus Space Colony will:
Be self-sustaining Encompass a major mining, construction, and scientific industry:
o Mining the Moon
o Mining NEOs
o Refinement of mined materialso
Scientific Researcho Space Shuttle Construction
Be a robust and comfortable enclosure for 10,000 permanent, and 1000temporary inhabitants
1.4 [Proposal Highlights]
Prevalent use of new technologies including smart materials, nano technologies,biotechnologies
Feasible, affordable design Safe and comfortable for all inhabitants
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Section 2 [Construction and Materials]
2.1 [General Process]
The Tesus Space Colony will be mainly assembled from pre-constructed pieces
while in orbit (see section 3). Since it is very expensive to carry materials deep intospace, a significant portion of the main construction will take place on the Moon and on
the existing International Space Station. At first, a primary Moon base will be constructed
and mining operations will commence (see section 6). The use of geological assessment
will allow for mining shafts to be constructed in areas containing valuable deposits suchas aluminium, titanium and iron. Vast construction yards, mainly controlled by robots,
will assemble the refined materials into the larger pieces of the space colony.
Pieces of the colony, built on Earth and assembled together on the InternationalSpace Station, will be launched via rocket from the station at exact intervals as to meet up
with the orbiting Tesus body. In its later stages of construction, the larger pieces of the
colony (i.e. support beams, Torus base-see section 4) will be sent from the Moon instead.
After the main body is constructed, and an adequate airlock is formed,development crews can enter the colony and begin work on the electrical, plumbing,
inner construction, and aesthetic properties of the colony. Since pieces are created foreasy assembly (which includes major piping - see figures 2.1.1-2.1.2), large construction
equipment will be unnecessary, and inner construction will be a simple process.
2.2.1 [General Materials]
The Tesus Space Colony, space shuttles, and Moon base will implement a wide
range of materials, keeping in mind low costs, efficiency and a robust and safe structurefor all inhabitants.Below is a table listing the main raw materials that will be used for the
construction of the Tesus Space Colony, their advantages and disadvantages, where theycan be found, and where they will be used in the colony:
Table 2.2.1: Raw Material Usage for Construction of the Tesus Space Colony
Material Advantages Disadvantages Mining Location Implementation
Aluminium Light Good electrical
conductor
Makes good fuel whenburned with oxygen
Great reflector of light(90%) Aluminium is 100%
recyclable with no
downgrading of its
qualities.
Impermeable to lightand taste
Expandsand contracts
drastically
when exposed
to large
changes intemperature
The Moon containsaluminium in an easily
processed mineral
form called anorthite
Anorthite contains20% aluminium and isfound to make up 78%
to 80% of the lunar
crust on the landsite of
the Appolo16 mission,
which makes mining it
very feasible
Since aluminium is solight, it can be used to
make the inner frame
structures of the colony
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Titanium/
Titanium
Oxides
High strength metal Light weight Alloyed with aluminum
and vanadium, it makes an
impressive fire wall, and
outer coating
Withstands saltwatercorrosion
Slightlymore costly
than
aluminium
Ilmenite, foundextensively on the
lunar orbit contains
about 53% Titanium
Dioxide
Very easy to extract,mine, and refine
Titanium will be thepredominantly used
material onboard the
Tesus Space colony
Used for the outercoating, main structure,
support beams, etc. Used in engines, rockets,
shuttle covering, hydraulic
tubing, firewalls
Used in metallurgy,paints, lacquers, plastics,
paper, textiles, and rubber
Silicon Abundant on Moon Semiconductor Not durable Few
construction
uses
Moon: about 45% ofsurface consists of
Silicon Dioxide
Electronics Used for
glass and glaze
coverings
Copper Excellent electricalconductor
Good thermal conductor Corrosion resistant Non-magnetic Recyclable Antibacterial Can be easily alloyed
with other metals
Must bemined from
Earth orNEOs
Earth Electro-magnetic coils Wiring (electrical) Piping Electromagnetic
Disturbance shield
2.2.2 [Smart Materials]
A significant portion of the Tesus Space Colony will
utilize what are called smart materials. They are materials that
will undergo controlled transformations through physicalinteractions and convert one type of input energy into another type
of output energy. Examples include piezoelectric materials, shape-memory alloys, electrostrictive materials, magnetostrictive
materials, electro-rheological fluids, dielectric elastomers.Usingthe newest of Smart Material Based Systems (SMBS)
technologies, which are defined as electro-mechanical systemsintegrated with sensing, actuating, control and computational
functions provided by such materials, Tesus will have full control
over all its physical manipulations. For example, the tremendoustemperature changes experienced by the Torus and solar panels are
enough to create deformations in structure: with the use of shape memory alloys, thedeformation can be easily counteracted with the correct application of an electric current(see figure 2.2.2.1). Ultimately, smart materials are the most robust, flexible, and easily
controlled materials available: see figure 2.2.2.2 and 2.2.2.3 for a comparison of the work
and power of these smart materials as compared to other methods of actuation. Figure2.2.2.4 demonstrates the functionality of smart materials in space conditions.
2.3 [Assembly]See assembly diagram (figure 2.3)
Figure 2.2.2.1: A shapememory alloy materialused to construct aminiature actuator
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Section 3 [Positioning]
3.1 [Background]There are five general positions that one can place a space colony in the dark
depths of space. These five points are called the Lagrange/liberation points.Unfortunately, three of the five points (L1-L3) are very unstable: if an object were to be
subjected to a collision from a space rock or a gust of solar winds, that object would then
fall into complete entropy. The remaining points, L4 and L5, are considered stable;therefore, the Tesus Space Colony be placed upon either the L4 or L5 point in space,
preferably L5 (because of abundance of NEOs in its vicinity).
3.2 [Orbit]The Tesus Space Colony will be
a self-sustaining enterprise with its own
economy, specializing in the
accumulation of space materials, miningthe Moon and conducting research that
cannot be conducted anywhere on Earth.
The colony will run in an 89-day orbit inproximity to the Lagrange points L4 and
L5 (see figure 3.2.1), at a close range to
the Moon, Earth, and nearby NEOs (nearearth objects), facilitating mining on the
Moon and transportation to the Earth.
This point provides all the
benefits stated above, keeps the Space
Colony within transportation range ofthe Earth, and out of range of the Van
Allen radiation belt that surrounds the Earth. With the space colony being stationed in the89-day orbit around the L5 point, it will avoid frequent lunar eclipses, which would
otherwise limit the amount of sunlight that the colony will receive from its solar panels.
3.3 [Gravitational Production]Pseudo-gravity is essential when considering the construction of any space
colony. Pseudo-gravity can be created with the constant rotation of an object in space,
due to the creation of centrifugal force. The inertia of this force in zero gravity becomes
great enough for the imitation of real gravity. For the Tesus Space Colony, the rotation
needed for artificial gravity is around 1.1 rpm (rotations per minute). See Appendix fordetailed calculations. See Section 4.3.4 for details on pseudo-gravity initiation process.
3.4 [Positioning Summary]When built, the Tesus Space Colony will be positioned in an orbit that will
facilitate mining of the Moon and NEOs, as well as provide a viable transportation
pathway back to Earth and visa versa. Finally, inhabitants will feel comfortable and atease in a perfectly calibrated artificial gravity enclosure. Together, these positioning
attributes create a home that provides both comfort and profit.
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Section 4 [Structure and Operation]
4.1 [General Structure]When built, the Tesus Space Colony will be an economic
and residential centre, housing people in style and comfort, andgenerating profits from its many industries. To house its trades, the
Tesus Space Colony will be robust, efficient, and aesthetically
pleasing. Tesus main structure can be categorized into three main
sections: (i) the Inner Core, which is responsible for sustenanceoperations; (ii) the Torus, which accommodates all the inhabitants
and transients; and (iii) the Outer Covering, which includes the
solar panels (see figure 4.1.1).
4.2 [The Torus]
The Torus is the centre of human activity onboard the Tesus Space Colony. Themain layout of the Torus is that of a luxury suburban and urban town. It is a peaceful
community dedicated to living in comfort and style. The entire floor area of the Torus is
covered in trees, shrubs, and grasses, as well as some detached homes, apartments,commercial areas, and recreational areas: similar to what one would find on Earth.
4.2.1 [Transportation]A number of options can be utilized for transporting inhabitants around the Torus
circumference. Since individual vehicles are prohibited on board the station, a public
means of transportation must be implemented. An efficient way of travelling throughout
the Torus would be a system of moving carpets. These are lateral escalators that are runby motors. Six carpeted mats would run along the floor of the Torus: three mats going
clockwise, each one with a different set speed, and three mats going counter clockwise.
See figure 4.2.1.1 for an illustration of the system. Other forms of transportation includeelevators and Tesus maintenance vehicles. A diagram of the transportation network is
shown in figure 4.2.1.2.
4.2.2 [Elevator Design]A major aspect of the Tesus Space Colonys transportation system relies on the
elevator system located throughout the colony. The main vertical elevators within the
Inner Core will function like those found on Earth, while the linking-tube elevators, those
that allow movement from the Torus to the Inner Core, utilize a simple mechanicaldesign with two degrees of freedom. This design allows for a shift in gravity that is
virtually unfelt by travellers. For linking-tube elevator design see figure 4.2.2.
4.2.3 [Buildings]The Torus structure will mainly contain large apartment buildings, as to maximize
space efficiency. Each apartment is outfitted with new technologies and spacious rooms,
to accommodate the needs of all inhabitants. Apartments range from 3 stories to 10stories. Detached homes are available as well. See a layout of internal structures (figure
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4.2.3.1) and buildings (figure 4.2.3.2). Along with comfortable housing, the Torus is
home to many commercial and recreational buildings. Simply put, it has all the comfortsof home: movie theatres, spas, swimming pools, parks, shopping malls, and etc.
4.3 [Outer Covering]
4.3.1 [Artificial Sky]Natural sunlight is an important factor that must be considered when constructing
the Tesus Space Colony. Maintaining what is called the circadian cycle regular (a
sequence of days and nights) plays a major role in the proper development of human
beings, affecting both metabolism and social activity. A specially treated Plexiglascomposite sheet will surround part of the exterior of the Torus. It will contain an
electrically activated crystal display or a stimuli-responsive polymer gel, as well as
ionized coatings that block out the intense light and UV rays of the sun. The display(having a slightly blue tint) will become more opaque as the day progresses (utilizing the
crystal display or stimuli-responsive polymer gel properties), making it seem as though a
change between day and night has occurred. As the Tesus Space Colony rotates and turns
away from the sun, electrical lighting takes the role of illuminating the artificial sky. Insome areas of the sky there will not be any crystal display coating, as to provide a view of
space.
4.3.2 [Protection from the Elements]
4.3.2.1 [Exterior Shape Deformation Control]The orbital path and rotation of the Tesus
Space Colony create an environment of vast
temperature change. When facing the sun, thecolony is subjected to extreme heat, and the
titanium covering on that side can expand
drastically. On the contrary, the opposite side isfaced with extreme cold, compressing that side.
This combination creates dangerous levels of stress
and deforms the metal structure and skin of the
Torus and Outer Covering. A relatively new proven technology will be implemented tocounteract these deformations by taking advantage of the temperatures involved. The
solution is to use a shape memory alloy (SMA for short). This smart material changes
its physical properties when exposed to temperature or electromagnetic radiation:
changing shape, stiffness, position, natural frequency, and other mechanicalcharacteristics. However, what distinguishes these alloys is that they can be specially
custom-trained to function in accordance with a specific temperature range. For example,a sheet of SMA is interlaced between two sheets of the titanium protective coating. If that
side were to experience a rise in temperature and expand, the specific SMA treated to
contract in higher temperatures would counteract this primary deformation. Another
solution would be to implement a SMA that changes its Young module: so when themetal expands, the SMA would become more compressible and accommodate this
expansion. Creating an SMA that counteracts the compression experienced by the
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wayward side of the Torus would serve the same purpose. The result is a structure that
does not experience radical shape deformation and stress, making it last longer and besafer. A more detailed explanation of SMAs and their role in the Tesus Space Colony is
described in figures 4.3.2.1.1 -4.3.2.1.3 on page 25 in section Figures and figure
4.3.2.1.4 above in this subsection. Advantages of SMAs include biocompatibility, diverse
fields of application, and good mechanical properties (strong, corrosion resistant, etc).
4.3.2.2 [Collisions with Meteors]
The entire basis of meteor protection for Tesus relies on careful monitoring fromnearby satellites, Earth, and the Communications centre. Threatening meteors are
detected long before they are able to pose any serious threat to the space colony, and
suitable measures are taken. For instance, a 1-gram meteor, which can sometimes strikethe station and create a small crater, destroy a solar panel, or cause a 1%/hour leak-down,
can be stopped by one of Tesus robotic shuttle-satellites (which have a thick titanium
wall designed for such collisions). Nonetheless, Tesus outer covering (see figure 2.1.2)is strong enough to resist such minor impacts. Larger meteors, which occur less
frequently, but have a more devastating effect, can also be stopped by either the shuttle-
satellites or by simply requesting a rocket from the construction yard to tow the Tesus
Space Colony away from the trajectory of the meteor
4.3.2.3 [Ionizing Radiation]
Solar flares and galactic cosmic rays are direct and serious threats to life in spacebecause they emit blasts of high-energy protons capable of delivering dangerous doses of
radiation. Ionizing radiation endangers humans because it is capable of breaking chemical
bonds in tissue. The solution for stopping this radiation is electromagnetic shielding. Themagnetic shield will create a magnetic field that will curve the ionized particles
trajectories: when the particle enters the region of high magnetic field, its trajectory will
be curved away from the protected region. Tesus magnetic shield will consist ofconcentric multi-layered coils that run on low amperage from the solar panels. To
maxmimize elecrical eficiency, radiation sensors (Geiger-Mueller counters) along the
outer covering will calculate levels of radiation, and the strength of the electromagnetic
shield will be adjusted to suit the proper levels needed to sustain human life.
4.3.2.4 [Interior Temperature Control]To protect inhabitants from the significant cold and heat of space, a system of
radiators and thermal shields must be installed within the structure of the Tesus Space
Colony. Sensors positioned on the outside of the colony and throughout the structure will
control a central thermostat. The ventilation pipes running above and below theinhabitant area of the Torus will generate the appropriate temperature and air circulation.
As well, a thermal shield will be positioned between the two double hulls as to provide a
barrier between the cold vacuum of space and the interior of the Torus.
4.3.3 [Power]
4.3.3.1 [Solar Power]
The major resource of power for the Tesus Space Colony will be the sun. Morethan one half of Tesus surface area is covered by solar panels. In fact, a total area of 1.14
km2
can be covered in solar panels. If the panels run at only 10% efficiency, they will be
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able to generate up to 18 billion watts per year. That is just about 500 mW/h more than
necessary: meaning that this extra power can be used for the Moon base, or in case powerdemands rise.
4.3.3.2 [Heel-Strike Generator Using Electrostrictive Polymers]
A new technology, which in the year 2005 is being used primarily for the military,can also be very useful in power generation for the Tesus Space Colony. Polymer heel-
strike generators utilize electroactive polymers (EAP for short) to produce largequantities of power. Theoretically, if one were to compress an EAP, it would actually
give off electric power (approximately 9 kW/h). By placing the material in the heels of
inhabitants shoes, total of about 100 mW/h can be produced. The only burden for thisrelatively free energy is that inhabitants would have to discharge their footwear by
parking it in specially designed outlets (available in each apartment) at night. So, just by
walking around, one could fully power ones home with the energy produced. (See
figures 4.3.3.2.1-4.3.3.2.3)
4.3.4 [Propulsion]There are two main needs for propulsion of the Tesus Space Colony. The first isthe initial rotation that perpetuates the pseudo-gravity within the Torus. A pseudo-gravity
initiation procedure is undertaken soon after the main construction phase is completed:two rockets attach themselves to opposite ends of the Torus in opposite directions (with
the use of two docking slots). The thrust from their engines is enough to set the colony in
a perpetual motion. See figure 4.3.4.1.The second need for propulsion can also be satisfied with a separate rocket. In the
case that the Tesus Space Colony is to be moved from its orbital position, a rocket would
be affixed to a projection from the top of the top of the Inner Core. Then, the rocketwould initiate its thrust and drag the colony to a desirable position. See figure 4.3.4.2 for
the projection design.
4.4 [Inner Core]The Inner Core is the force behind the operations and sustenance of the Tesus
Space Colony. It is divided into five main sections, each serving its own purpose insustaining human life onboard the colony: Communications, Control Headquarters,
Fluids and Waste Processing, the Biodome, and the Construction Yard/ Airport.
4.4.1 [Communications]Having a precise and reliable form of
communication is essential for maintaining life in space.
Accessible communication from the Tesus Space Colonyto Earth minimizes the isolation felt by inhabitants, allows
for monitoring of nearby threats, creates a link for themany industries, and is generally considered a lifeline.
The communications centre, located at the very peak of
the Tesus Space Colony, has a number of parabolicantennas and signal amplification devices that facilitate
the entire communications process. The layout of the Communications centre is shown in
figure 4.4.1.2. To maintain a constant lenticular shape for the long-distance antennas
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despite thermal deformation, a multifunctional adaptive membrane of dielectric actuators
must be implemented (antenna design is shown in figure 4.4.1.1).
4.4.2 [Control Headquarters]Control Headquarters is the centre for analysis, security,
monitoring, and processing of information. It receives data from themultitude of sensors and cameras positioned all around the Tesus
Space Colony, and it responds justly. Computer algorithms make themost adjustments; to temperature, airflow/conditioning, the artificial
sky, thermal deformation control, etc. However, a crew of eleven
members still has a role in ensuring the well being of all inhabitantson board.
4.4.3 [Fluids and Waste Processing]The Fluids Processing sector is responsible for three major
tasks: water filtration, recycling, and waste management and
sanitation. Each task is crucial for sustaining life, minimizing costs,and ensuring that the Tesus Space Colony runs efficiently. The
positioning of the water filtration, recycling, and waste
management and sanitation plants is shown in figure 4.4.3.
4.4.3.1 [Water Filtration]Water is essential for human life in space: it is used to sustain plant life (which
provide oxygen and food), to drink, for hygienic purposes, and for general maintenance
and functionality. Primary sources of water would be sent via rocket to the Tesus Space
Station from Earth, and then this same water will be perpetually recycled. There aredifferent methods for treating waste water: biologically as in most terrestrial
communities, physiochemically, by dry incineration, or by some more advancedtechniques such as electrodialysis, electrolysis, vapour distillation or reverse osmosis.However, each of these alternatives is inefficient in some way. Therefore, the best
solution for water treatment is wet oxidation (Zimmerman process), because it is the most
efficient. Taking only -1 hour, wet oxidation produces a reactor effluent gas free of
nitrogen, sulfur and phosphorous oxides, and high quality water containing a finelydivided phosphate ash and ammonia.
4.4.3.2 [Waste management]The Tesus Space Colony is a completely isolated environment. Since a minimal
amount of resources will be brought from Earth after construction, the existing resources
will have to be used efficiently and losses minimized, and much of the waste generatedby human activity on the station will have to be recycled.
4.4.3.2.1 [Waste collection]Agricultural, food processing, household activities and excretion will generate
organic wastes. Agricultural waste, consisting mainly of inedible plant parts like roots or
foliage will be collected directly from the food processing facilities. Feces and urine will
be collected through toilets similar to those on Earth and will be part of the sewage water,which will be purified. Household wastes will consist of both organic and inorganic
matter (food scraps, glass, metal, paper, plastic), and inhabitants will be advised to store
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different types of waste in designated containers, until it is collected and transported to
recycling plants.
4.4.3.2.2 [Waste processing and recycling]All types of waste will need to be recycled using specific processes. Below is a
chart (Table 4.4.3.2.2) demonstrating the processes required to recycle different wastes:
Table 4.4.3.2.2: Waste Processing and RecyclingWaste Type Processing and
Recycling
Result
General
organicwaste
Composting
(decomposition bybacteria and fungi)
Humus (used as fertilizer for plants)
Plants Pulp and Paper mill Contain cellulose (can make paper)
Plastics Recycling Plant
(heating)
Thermoplastic Polymers: Can be made into high
density polyethylene (used in pipes, bottles and toys),
low density polyethylene (used in plastic bags andflexible containers), polyethylene terephthalate
(used in bottles and food packaging), polypropylene(used in food containers), polystyrene and polyvinyl
chloride (used in bottles, cable insulation and medical
products).
Thermosetting Polymers: Difficult to recycle
Metals Recycling Plant(melting and re-
manufacturing)
Metals in metal alloys can be separated by using theirdifferent melting points. Powerful magnets can be
used for the separation of ferrous from non-ferrous
metals.
Glass Recycling Plant(Mechanicalprocessing)
Glass will be crushed into small pieces by amechanical processing system, metals and otherimpurities will be filtered out using magnets and
vacuum systems and the remaining glass will be
melted in a furnace, then moulded into the desired
shape.
Paper Recycling Plant(Mechanical andchemical processing)
Recycling paper involves shredding it and mixing itwith water and chemical preservatives until itbecomes a viscous liquid. Then it is passed between
two rollers that press the fibres together and dry the
paper (water is squeezed out by the pressure).
4.4.3.2.3 [Removal of unrecyclable waste]Materials that cannot be recycled will be exposed to high temperatures; the
evaporated water will be collected, condensed, and recycled, and the ash residue wouldbe released into space.
4.4.4 [The Biodome]The Biodome is the largest section of the Inner Core: it is a
multileveled environment housing different climates and different
species of flora and fauna. Its purpose is to provide oxygen and food
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in a sustainable manner to the inhabitants of the Tesus Space Colony. A layout of the
Biodome is shown in figure 4.4.4.1. To make plant production more efficient, a numberof innovative technologies will be used. Hydroponics, the process of growing of plants in
water containing essential mineral nutrients rather than in soil, and aeroponics, where the
plants are held above a system that constantly mists the roots with nutrient-laden water,
minimize the amount of space, energy and time needed to grow the plants, making totalplant production more efficient. With the revolution of biotechnology, abiotic factors that
influence a plants growth can be tweaked to produce riper, and quicker growing plants.In fact, a computer can control the amount of nutrients, sunlight, and water needed, as
well as automatically pick ripe yields, to make the growing process fast and efficient.
Animal production on the Tesus Space Colony will differ from that on Earth,because on the Tesus Space Colony it will be done on a three-dimensional scale (a
system of multiple levels). Food processing will also be done in the Biodome and sent to
food dispersal centres in the Torus.
4.4.5 [Airport/Construction Yard]
4.4.5.1 [Airport]The Airport is a relatively conventional area. It is
positioned at the very bottom of the Inner Core, belowthe Torus. Eight hydraulic airlocks are positioned
around the exterior of the airport to allow multiple
shuttles to arrive at one time. The interior of the airporthas limited gravity, so entering shuttles will be strapped
to the floor using clip-on tether lines. When entering the
low gravity zone, passengers will be hooked on to a
series of rails and enter and exit the appropriate shuttles
at given times (via Space-Traffic control). The generallayout of the airport is shown in figure 4.4.5.1).
4.4.5.2 [Construction Yard]The Construction Yard is the home of the Tesus
Space Colonys major industries. It houses a refinery, ashuttle construction yard, maintenance systems, and
manufacturing plants.
4.5 [Human Physiological Factors]See figure 4.5 for a list of specific factors that
influence the well being of the inhabitants on the Tesus Space Colony.
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Section 5 [NanoSpace Technology]
Nanotechnology, biotechnology, and miniaturization are combining to form what
is called NanoSpace Technology. Miniature robots made of mechanical or biologicalprotein parts will create an entire infrastructure that will aid in the construction, mining,
and other related tasks of the Tesus Space Colony enterprise.
5.1 [Nano-materials for the hulls of spacecraft]Materials primarily composed of nanotube-fibers with nano-sized computers
integrated into them will be interlaced in the hulls of spacecraft (including rockets and
mining shuttles). These materials, along with being lighter, will also be far stronger. Forthe purpose of transportation to the Tesus Space Colony, a surface that will help transfer
the aerodynamic forces working on a spacecraft during launch will be created. When the
craft is launched, the nano-computers will flex the crafts hull to offset pressure
differences in the hull caused by the crafts acceleration through the atmosphere. Thenthe same nano-computer network in the hull would go to work heating the shaded side of
the craft and cooling the sun exposed side and to even create heat shielding for re-entry.
5.2 [Swarms]
5.2.1 [Definition]Nano-robotics called "Swarms" are a new technology that is being experimented
with in Year 2005. Swarms are nano-robots that act in unison like bees. See figure 5.2.1.
5.2.2 [Smart Cloth]Swarms will act as a flexible cloth-like-material, and being composed of what are
called Bucky tubes (figure 5.2.2), this cloth will be as strong as a diamond. With theaddition of nano-robots and nano-computers, a smart cloth is created. Specialty
garments and assistive devices made of smart cloth could be used to keep the humanoperators protected in harsh operating environment by, among other uses, offsetting thesudden movements and monitoring the operators physiological status.
5.2.3 [Astronaut Space Suit]Another application for the nano-robot swarm smart cloth is astronauts space
suits, used primarily in mining operations on the Moon. A space suit is itself akin to a
mini space ship, so this same smart cloth can be the super structure of a deep space probe
complete with an onboard computer capable of creating optimal travel plans needed onroute to a destination and capable of not only making changes in mission plans but
creating new mission-support decisions as they are needed or wanted. See figure 5.2.3.
5.2.4 [Swarm Applications in Construction]Another application of nano-robots would be in carrying out construction projects
in hostile environments. For example, with just a handful of self replicating robots,utilizing local materials and local energy, it is conceivable that space habitats can be
completely constructed by remote control so that the inhabitants need only show up with
their suitcases, as the case with the primary mining operations on the Moon, and primaryconstruction of the Tesus Space Colony.
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Section 6 [Industries]
There are about five major ways in which the Tesus Space Colony can generate
profit: mining the Moon, mining NEOs, constructing spacecraft and related technologies,
zero gravity research, inhabitant fees.
6.1 [Lunar Mining]A lunar base was initially built for the actual construction of the Tesus Space
Colony. More landings on the Moon from automated rockets and manned colonization
units will create an entire mining city, capable of mining, refining, and transporting vastamounts of raw materials found on the lunar surface to the Tesus Space Colony and
potential buyers. See figure 6.1 for the mining process.
6.1.1 [Mining Shuttle]A Mining Shuttle design has been put together using smart materials (such as
Shape Memory Alloys) to enable high-efficiency innovative modes of operation. See
figure 6.1.1 and subsection 6.1.1.3 for detailed explanations and schematics.
6.1.1.1 [Hull]Materials primarily composed of nanotube fibers with nano-sized computers
integrated into them will be interlaced in the hulls of the mining shuttle. When the craft is
launched, the nano-computers will flex the crafts hull to offset pressure differences andthermal loading in the hull.
6.1.1.2 [Ion Drive]Ion propulsion is a technology that involves ionizing a gas to propel a craft.
Instead of a spacecraft being propelled with standard chemicals, xenon gas is ionized and
then electrically accelerated to a speed of about 30 km/second. When xenon ions areemitted at such high speed as exhaust from a spacecraft, they push the spacecraft in the
opposite direction. Due to the limited gravity on the Moon, the Mining Shuttle will be
able to hover in one spot or propel itself forward with ease. The ion drive can push thespacecraft up to about ten times as fast as chemical propulsion. It is highly efficient, very
gentle in its thrust, and it requires a smaller fuel tank than a chemical propulsion system.
See figure 6.1.1.2.
6.1.1.3 [Ion Drive Manipulation]
Just like the jet engines on a supersonic aircraft, the direction of the flow of
gaseous materials from the space shuttles ion drives will be regulated. However, most
supersonic aircraft in the air today operate these systems using extensive hydraulicsystems that are often relatively difficult and costly to maintain. The unique solution
proposed for the shuttles is to use shape memory alloy wire actuators to move multipleflaps within the ion drive apparatus and therefore control the flow of gas (which
ultimately controls the manoeuvrability of the space shuttle). This system is much more
compact and efficient, in that the shape memory wires only require an electric current formovement. The wire on the bottom of each flap is shortened through the shape memory
effect, while the top wire is stretched bending the edge downwards, the opposite occurs
when each flap must be bent upwards. The shape memory effect is induced in the wires
simply by heating them with an electric current, which is easily supplied through
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electrical wiring, eliminating the need for large hydraulic lines. By removing the
hydraulic system, aircraft weight, maintenance costs, and repair time are all reduced, andan accurate control of the space shuttle is procured. See figure 6.1.1.
6.1.2 [Refinement]
See figures 6.1.2.1 and 6.1.2.2 for the aluminium and titanium refinement process.
6.2 [Near Earth Objects]Near Earth objects contain metals that cannot be found on the lunar surface (e.g.,
copper). Catching these objects and refining them is a feasible way of making profit andexpanding upon the Tesus Space Colony. To accomplish this goal, NEO shuttle will be
used. It will be a remotely automated shuttle that catches smaller meteors (50 kg-
250kg) and returns them to the Tesus Space Colony for refinement. The concept behind
this expendable shuttle is to fly in the path of meteors and have them embed themselvesin its thick mat of Aerogel, later to be claimed onboard the Tesus Space Colony. See
figure 6.2.1 for the NEO shuttle design.
6.3 [SMA Space Suits]For the lunar surface, construction and any space-related activities, a specially
designed space suit will be built that utilizes smart material technology. The followingsubsection present elements of this new space suit.
6.3.1 [Augmenting Human Performance]An exoskeleton-like boot will allow for better operation on difficult terrain. The
active ankle foot orthosis will utilize a potentiometer to sense the ankle angle, sixcapacitive force sensors to sense the ground reaction force, and a Series Elastic Actuator
(SEA) to provide stepping power (with low impedance, and high power density). Seefigure 6.3.1.
6.3.2 [Mechanical Counter Pressure]A certain level of suit pressure must be maintained (2.9 psi), for physiological
reasons, yet a certain level of mobility has to be sustained as well. However, getting into
a tight-fitting suit is a problem. The solution is to use an SMA channel: once a person is
inside, the SMA constricts and tightens the suit around the persons body (see figure6.3.2). After the suit is donned, a number of technologies help maintain the required
levels of Mechanical Counter Pressure (MCP). For one, Smart polymer gels expand
with body heat, voltage or pH, accommodating the astronaut. Interlaces made of SMAs
expand and contract the suit when needed, and piezoelectric actuators allow foraugmentation of physical tasks by acting as a force-enhancing exoskeleton.
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Section 7 [Costs, Time, and Future Expansion]
7.1 [Costs and Time]The Tesus Space Colony will be built in a feasible, efficient and productive
manner. Total costs for development, production, transportation, sustenance and other
related costs for the Tesus Space Colony, Moon base and other related equipment rangefrom about 250 to 275 billion dollars (US). Estimated time for the completion of the
colony and related activities is 30-36 years (see figure 7.1). Operating costs, including
transportation of materials to and from the Tesus Space Colony, worker salaries, power
costs, mining operation costs, maintenance and related costs, will total to approximately7-10 billion dollars (US) per year. Profits from lunar mining, visitor costs, space shuttle
construction, and research will range between 14-19 billion dollars (US) per year.
7.2 [Future Expansion]The Tesus Space Colony can readily expand to accommodate more inhabitants.
The expansion process can be seen in figure 7.2 below.
Figure 7.2: Future Expansion of the Tesus Space Colony
(1) To encompass the demand for more
space, five more Tesus Colonies will be
oined together to form a fully connected
unit. Each pod will spin on its own axis in
order to create pseudo-gravity.(2) Joining three five-unit centres around a main
core will allow for even more carrying capacity.
This super-structure houses more than 200,000
people within its Tesus Colony Pods, while its
core is responsible for the refinement of space
materials and construction of space equipment.
(3) The continuous expansion ofthe colony requires the fractal
growth of the super-structures.
This specific section can house
more than 750,000 people. Over
time, support from Earth will beunnecessary, and structures that
can house millions of people will
be readily built in space.
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Figures
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Torus Structure
Figure 2.1.2:
Note: Torus section is tilte
(to accommodate thcentrifugal force needed f
artificial gravity). In th
diagram, the left side of th
Torus is where thinhabitants would b
positioned. The right side
the ceiling.
Figure 2.1.1:
LightingElectrical systems
already installed on
Earth minimize work
for electriciansVentilation pipes
Floor BoardsSteel trusses create a strong
support for housing,
transportation and other loads
Interlocking Tubing
Connecting pipes allow
for easy assemble of
electrical, sewage,
water, ventilation and
other piping
Interlocking
plates allow for
a robust and
easily formed
seal
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Properties of Smart Materials
E
[ %
Figure 2.2.2.2: The work force of actuator materials: elongation as a function ofthe materials force density
Figure 2.2.2.3: The power of actuator materials: Actuation time as a function ofthe materials power density
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Note: the above table does not take into account a system of temperature control.
If temperature control is included, then a wider range of materials becomes
available. For instance, the use of shielding to reduce exposure to solar radiation
minimizes the upper temperature but does not provide the temperature control
required for gels, liquid crystal elastomers or piezoelectric polymers. Also, the
soft nature of some materials (gels, elastomers) may facilitate the function of self
regulation of temperature.
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Assembly
Figure 2.3: The general assembly and construction process of the Tesus Space Colony
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[5]
[6]
Figure 2.3 (continued)
ControlCentre
Communic
Waste andFluidsProcessing
Biodome
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Figure 2.3 (continued)
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Transportation
Figure 4.2.1.1: LateralEscalator
Above, elevator designallows for a change
from pseudo-gravity tono ravit
Figure 4.2.2: Elevator Design
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Structures within the Torus
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SMA Applications
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Polymer heel-strike generator
Figure 4.4.3.2.3:
Other applications of
Electroactive
polymers: an artificial
muscle design
Figure 4.4.3.2.2: Principle of EAP Generator
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Figure 4.4.1.1: A concept of inflatable lenticular
antenna with distributed EAP actuators
Propulsion
Communications
Shuttle
Interloc
LimitedFrictionJoint
Actuator
Projection
Tether Line
Tower
Rocket
Rotation is kept despite lateral displacement
4.3.4.2: Lateral Propulsion Process
Figure 4.4.1.2: Top View of
Communications
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Fi ure 4.4.4
Fluids and Wastes Processing
Biodome
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Figure 4.4.5.1:
Airport
Airport
Human Factors
Figure 4.5: Human Physiological Factors within the Tesus Space Colony
Psuedogravity 0.95 +/- 0.5 g
Radiation exposure for
the general population
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Nano-Space Technologies
Figure 5.2.2: Bucky tube
strand Figure 5.2.3: Smart cloth space suit
Figure 5.2.1: Nanorobotics-based swarms
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Mining
Port
Lunar MiningFigure 6.1:
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Metal Processing
Figure 6.1.1.2: Ion Drive
Figure 6.1.2.1: Aluminium Processing
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Figure 6.1.2.2: Titanium Processing
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Space Suit
Figure 6.3.1: Active
ankle foot Orthosis
Figure 6.3.2: Shrinking
garment
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Figure7
.1:ProjectSched
ule
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References
Barsan, Costea, and Sigovan. LEDA. NASA Space Settlement Contest.
,December 15, 2004.
Bonser, Harwin, Hayes, Jeronimidis, Mitchell, Santulli. Final Report: EAP-basedartificial muscles as an alternative to space mechanisms. The University of Reading.
, February 1, 2005.
Cornish. The Lagrange Points. MAP Education and Outreach Program. December 5, 2004.
Globus, Bailey, Han, Jaffe, Levit, Merkle, Srivastava. NASA applications of molecular
nanotechnology
,December 16, 2004.
Gorinevsky, Hyde, Cabuz. Distributed Shape Control of Lightweight Space ReflectorStructure. Proceedings of the 40th IEEE Conference on Decision and Control, December
2001.
Johnson, Holbrow. Space Settlements: A Design Study. NASA.
, December 15, 2004.
Pelrine. Heel-Strike Generator Using Electrostrictive Polymers. Energy Harvesting.
, December 27, 2004.
Johnson. Dielectric Elastomers. AE 510: Research Project Presentation. January 27,
2004
Latham. Moon. Microsoft Encarta Encyclopedia 2001. 2001
Leung. Smart Materials. Hong Kong Baptist University.
February 1, 2005.
Lewin. Aluminum. Microsoft Encarta Encyclopedia 2001. 2001
Mavroidis. Protein based nano-machines for space applications. Rutgers Engineering. , February 1, 2005.
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Newman, Hoffman, Bethke, Carr, Jordan, Sim, Jessiman, Trotti. An astronaut bio-suit
system for exploration missions. February 1, 2005.
SMA.MEMS Research Group Aircraft Maneuvrability. ESmart.
, February 2, 2005.
Somers. NanoSpace Technologies and their Applications in Space Science, December 16, 2004.
Titanium. Microsoft Encarta Encyclopedia 2001. 2001
Texas A&M. Introduction to shape memory alloys. Smart Lab
, January 24 2004.
Figure 2.2.2.1: Courtesy ofwww.cim.mcgill.ca/ ~grant/sma.html
Figure 6.1.2.1 and 6.1.2.2: Courtesy ofhttp://lifesci3.arc.nasa.gov/SpaceSettlement/75SummerStudy/4appendI.html
Figures 4.4.3.2.1 and 4.4.3.2.2: Courtesy of
http://www.darpa.mil/dso/trans/energy/pa_sri.html
Figure 4.4.1.1: Courtesy of: Gorinevsky, Hyde, Cabuz. Distributed Shape Control of
Lightweight Space Reflector Structure. Proceedings of the 40th
IEEE Conference on
Decision and Control, December 2001.
Figures 4.3.2.1.1-4.3.2.1.3: Courtesy of http://smart.tamu.edu/
Figure 4.3.2.1.5: Courtesy ofwww-robot.mes.titech.ac.jp/.../ elastor_e.html
Figure 4.5: Courtesy ofhttp://www.belmont.k12.ca.us/ralston/programs/itech/SpaceSettlement/75SummerStudy/Chapt3.html
Figures 6.3.1, 6.3.2 and assorted figures: Courtesy of
http://mvl.mit.edu/EVA/BioSuitNIACAnnual2004_forweb.pdf
http://www.cim.mcgill.ca/~grant/sma.htmlhttp://www-robot.mes.titech.ac.jp/robot/medical/elastor/elastor_e.htmlhttp://www.belmont.k12.ca.us/ralston/programs/itech/http://www.belmont.k12.ca.us/ralston/programs/itech/http://www.belmont.k12.ca.us/ralston/programs/itech/http://www-robot.mes.titech.ac.jp/robot/medical/elastor/elastor_e.htmlhttp://www.cim.mcgill.ca/~grant/sma.html8/7/2019 Space Settlelemt Contest Project tesus2005
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Appendix
Size ConsiderationsConsiderations for the Tesus Space Colonys dimensions were based on research
conducted by Holbrow1 according to certain building standards and building codes.Projected area within Torus was calculated to be about 85 m2 per person and volume per
person within the Torus was calculated to be about 195 m3
per person. Total Torus area(inclusive of 11000 inhabitants) of about 935000 m2 and total Torus volume of 2145000
m was accounted for in design. The Inner Cores sustenance regions are within the area
and volume ranges predicted by Holbrow1.
Solar PowerWith only 10% conversion, a square kilometre will return about 2220 kw/h
2. The
area of the solar panels was calculated to be approximately 1.14 km, therefore solar
energy was calculated to be approximately 1.8 billion watts per year.
PseudogravityFor physiological reasons, a pseudo gravity of 1 g is required on board the colony.
For a radiusR, and angular velocity, w, a gravity of 1 g (9.81 m/s2) can be created:
(1) Rwg = 2
Ifw is expressed in revolutions per minute (rpm), 1 rpm means that the structure will
cover 2 radians in one minute:
s
radiansrpm 105.0
60
21 ==
Substituting the above into (1):
gRw = 2)105.0(
Expressing w in terms of R:
R
gRw 524.9)( =
Substitute a 750 m radius for R: w = 1.1. Therefore, the colony will spin at around1.1 revolutions per minute. Living on a permanently rotating structure can be harmful to
human beings. As a result, The rotating motion and subsequent Coriolis acceleration cancause equilibrium and inner ear problems. Research appears to show that eventually
humans can adapt to rotation rates of several rpm. However, most negative effects are
1 Johnson, Holbrow. Space Settlements: A Design Study. Chapter 3: Human Needs in Space NASA.
, December 15, 2004.
2Johnson, Holbrow. Space Settlements: A Design Study. Chapter 2: Solar Energy: An Abundant and Important source of energy.
NASA. , December 15, 2004.
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hardly noticeable at rotation rates below 2 rpm. The Tesus Space Colonys velocity is 1.1
rpm (this velocity is below 2 rpm), which means that these negative effects are negligible.
Linking Tube ElevatorThe gravity or g-force experienced by inhabitants traveling from the Torus into
the Inner core decreases non-linearly, given by the following expression:(2) 2)105.0( wRg =
where g is the g-force experienced at a certain radius,R, when the colony spins at angularvelocity, w, at 1.1 rpm
We assume that it takes 2 minutes to travel the 550 meters from the Torus to the
Inner Core, so the elevators velocity is about 4.5833 m/s. Therefore, at any given pointwhile traveling, the elevators lateral displacement will be (velocity*time) or 4.5833t.Sub in the expression for radius (4.5833t) into (2):
(3) 2)105.0(5833.4 wtg =
The percentage of rotation for any given time can be found by: (i) dividing the
level of gravity in (3) by the total level of gravity (1 g or 9.81 m/s2), and then (ii),
multiplying it be the total span of rotation ( radians2
). Below, r, rotation in radians, for
a given time, t:
(4)a
wttr
2
)105.0)(5833.4()(
2
=
where a is 1 g (9.81 m/s2)
Therefore, the rotation of the elevator along the horizontal axis must rotate in
accordance with the function r(t), (4) above.
Costs and TimeThe general costs and times for the Tesus Space Colony project were based upon
research conducted by Holbrow3.