Speculative architect Jakub Pietryszyn introduces ‘Blompod’, an expandable and inflatable moon habitat designed for upcoming space missions. The structure can host up to two astronauts within an initial 92 cu m living space. Once transported to and installed on the moon, the habitat can ‘blossom’ and reach 183 cu m to accommodate more activities and programs. 

‘blossom’ process of blompod

Specifically, Pietryszyn (see more  here ) envisioned the moon habitat as having a livable pod core, with two main parts enveloped by an inflatable structure. The first part hosts a toilet, a shower, and a kitchen area on the outer wall that can only be accessed once the ‘Blompod’ expands in size. The second part features a sleeping area with two beds and a personal storage room. The core is also equipped with life-sustaining systems necessary to survive in outer space.

first stage of ‘Mani’ space mission

The inflatable area, meanwhile, is predicted to serve as a workspace equipped with minilabs and computers to conduct more extensive research and on-site exploration. Moreover, half of the expandable space near the kitchen could eventually become a social/workout zone for the inhabiting astronauts.

3D rendering of settlement 

The process of installing the ‘Blompod’ would go as follows. First, a newly deployed lander arrives on the Moon carrying the pod habitat that gets unloaded with the help of two moon rovers. Once installed, the core can begin its ‘blossoming’ stage, expanding its parts to reveal the inner core and create a bigger living area; the fully-inflated surface eventually gets covered with protective shields. The base shield is made of regolith mixed with small doses of cement to create a rigid skeleton. Coating the regolith surface is a layer of moon sand that offers additional protection from radiation and small meteorites. The ‘blompod’ becomes ready for use when both shields are layered.

interior of ‘Blompod’

name: Blompod – Moon Habitat architecture: Jakub Pietryszyn – void

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edited by: lea zeitoun | designboom

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