Mars inflatable greenhouse analog.
Light intensities on the Martian surface can possibly support a bioregenerative life support system (BLSS) utilizing natural sunlight for hydroponic crop production, if a suitable controlled environment can be provided. Inflatable clear membrane structures offer low mass, are more easily transported than a rigid structure, and are good candidates for providing a suitable controlled environment for crop production. Cable culture is one hydroponic growing system that can take advantage of the beneficial attributes of the inflatable structure. An analog of a Mars inflatable greenhouse can provide researchers data on issues such as crew time requirements for operation, productivity for BLSS, human factors, and much more at a reasonable cost. This is a description of one such design.
Sadler
Philip D
PD
Sadler Machine Co., Tempe, AZ, USA. Sadlermachineco@aol.com
Giacomelli
Gene A
GA
D018504:Ecological Systems, Closed; D004867:Equipment Design; D005118:Extraterrestrial Environment; D005160:Facility Design and Construction; D018527:Hydroponics; D008021:Life Support Systems / Q000295:instrumentation*; D018535:Mars; D063245:Plant Development; D013026:Space Flight / Q000458:organization & administration; D013472:Sunlight