LDC 2023 Topic: Progressive stages of establishing an enduring and thriving human presence on the Moon
Abstract: Current visions for the development of long-term human habitation of the Moon and a thriving space-based economy usually contain certain critical stages of development. Each of these stages has their own defining hallmarks. The time it will take to reach those defining stages sets the pace for developing critical short-term technology needs, and longer-term goals for establishing an enduring infrastructure. Understanding the pace of development, and the urgency of those needs, is critical to everything from scheduling research and development, to organizing financing and forming policies.
This presentation lays out the general progressive stages of establishing an enduring and thriving human presence on the Moon, discusses the broad needs for each stage, and gives examples of well-timed research and development. Methods for adapting existing terrestrial technologies for use on the lunar surface will also be discussed.
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