A lunar polar expedition

• Main Authors: Dowling, Richard, Svitek, Tomas, Staehle, Robert L.
• Format: Other/Unknown Material
• Language: unknown
• Published: 1992
• Subjects: LUNAR AND PLANETARY EXPLORATION; Arctic; Antarctic; North Pole; Antarc*
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/2060/19930008244

Advanced exploration and development in harsh environments require mastery of basic human survival skill. Expeditions into the lethal climates of Earth's polar regions offer useful lessons for tommorrow's lunar pioneers. In Arctic and Antarctic exploration, 'wintering over' was a crucial milestone. The ability to establish a supply base and survive months of polar cold and darkness made extensive travel and exploration possible. Because of the possibility of near-constant solar illumination, the lunar polar regions, unlike Earth's may offer the most hospitable site for habitation. The World Space Foundation is examining a scenario for establishing a five-person expeditionary team on the lunar north pole for one year. This paper is a status report on a point design addressing site selection, transportation, power, and life support requirements.