CONSTRUCTION ENGINEERING APPROACH FOR LUNAR BASE DEVELOPMENT

Studies on lunar base construction conducted by the writers' research group are summarized. A desirable lunar base design was first discusse d by employing a systems engineering approach and by defining an evolu tionary scenario, which emphasized resource utilization. Several lunar -base-related concepts were examined from the viewpoint of constructio n engineering including construction materials, structural design, and construction methods. The research also addressed resource utilizatio n for the production of oxygen and construction materials. A commerici al approach toward future lunar development is proposed.