State-of-the-Art Technologies for Construction in Space: a Review.
Abstract
Future exploration and enterprise in low-Earth orbit will most likely require space stations for support. In addition, promotion of the Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI) is mandating research and development (R&D) into technologies for building structures to serve military objectives in space. However, an assessment of the state of the art for space construction technology has revealed that the field is immature, with little conceptual and experimental research completed. The U.S. Army Construction Engineering Research Laboratory (USA-CERL) has collected information on existing technologies for possible application in designing large space structures (LSS) for military support. This work is part of an effort by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to ensure mission-responsiveness in anticipation of a role in space construction. USA-CERL is USACE's designated lead laboratory for this program. Military structures will require design criteria much different from those of experimental space stations. Proposed conceptual criteria for both types structures are compared and differences are noted. Much R&D is needed before any of these structures can be deployed in space.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1987
- Accession Number
- ADA188412
Entities
People
- Charles C. Lozar
- L. D. Stephenson
Organizations
- Construction Engineering Research Laboratory