This thesis posits the creation of a lunar settlement, examining the practical and theoretical challenges of urban design in a space environment. Analysis of the lunar environment aided by data and imagery from the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter allows the project to narrow focus on site selection while simultaneously capturing the bizarre and beautiful landscape. Intensive site study becomes the framework of a uniquely tailored, imaginative design emphasizing an urban fabric that is sensitive to astrological presences through passive and reactive design. / Master of Science / Whether it be through accident, conquest, or expedition, humanity has long held an innate desire to root itself in new environments that challenge us. The sky has proven to be no limit, the 20th century has shown that the exploration and colonization of space is inevitable. The question is where will we begin the first colony in space and what form will it take? This thesis posits the creation of a lunar settlement, examining the practical and theoretical challenges of urban design in a space environment.
Site selection is crucial with the birth of any new city or civilization. Much like settlers of the past, a thorough understanding of constraints and strategic positioning is necessary to ensure the growth and survival of a colony. The accumulative site knowledge presented with this thesis is the framework of a uniquely tailored design to sustain long-term inhabitance on the moon. While this project can make no bold claims to predict the intentions of future colonists, it does serve to create an imaginative urban form to begin this journey, derived from grounded research and intensive site study.
This thesis adds new perspectives beyond conventional engineered plans, to explore the potential of an immersive, reactive urban fabric with sensitivity to astrological presences. Urban design recommendations are made to enhance day to day livability in space, offer a sense of time and place, foster meaningful interaction among colonists, and consider growth beyond the initial settlement. While such a colony will undoubtedly serve as the staging area for the next steps in space exploration, it foremost will be a testament to what we as a people choose to collectively bring with us to the moon.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:VTETD/oai:vtechworks.lib.vt.edu:10919/85616 |
| Date | 31 October 2018 |
| Creators | Gahres, Cameron James |
| Contributors | Architecture, Piedmont-Palladino, Susan C., Lever, David G., Heavers, Nathan |
| Publisher | Virginia Tech |
| Source Sets | Virginia Tech Theses and Dissertation |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Thesis |
| Format | ETD, application/pdf |
| Rights | In Copyright, http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/ |
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