A NASA researcher is trying to prove that an aircraft design, developed decades ago, could meet today’s requirements for an atmospheric planetary probe.
Their compact design makes these solar arrays practical for missions in low-Earth orbit, interplanetary travel, or even for surface applications on the Moon.
Inflatable structures on the lunar surface could provide versatile living quarters, laboratories, recreational or agricultural areas, and equipment storage.
Without Earth’s gravity, both bone and muscle become smaller and weaker, so exercise is a critical part of maintaining healthy bones and muscles in space.
Copper-based alloys developed at NASA’s Glenn Research Center have specific strength and thermal performance, making them perfect for additive manufacturing.