Stella Zhang

Above Moon

Volzero Moonception Competition 2019

“Mankind has been able to survive on earth thanks to the extraordinary temperate environment our planet has to offer. The self-sustaining ecosystem and abundant natural resources have helped us to thrive better than any other mammals on earth. In order to create similar living conditions for humans on the moon, our team have decided to design a large standalone chamber that simulates the earth’s environment. It is comprised of both the Base of the operation and the Eco-Dwelling that is used for housing. The Base acts as a multi-purpose facility that includes the control and communication center, research lab, maintenance and surveillance departments, exhibition gallery and an area for leisure and entertainment. There is a change room located at the rear end of the Base that also serves as a barometric pressure chamber. Resembling a planet-like sphere, the Eco-Dwelling is a two section round structure that protrudes from the rest of the Base. The upper section is covered by a glass shield, encasing the large vertical garden used for food and oxygen production. The lower compartment contains the storage warehouse and the resource transformation system, which provides energy to support the entire operation. With the help of the moon’s lesser gravity, the belt is kept in a semi-levitated state. It is connected to the main structure only through the narrow corridor and uses magnetic energy to aid the support of its weight. ”