This semi-autonomous greenhouse can be used to at least partially feed the astronauts in residence on the Moon

Continuous human habitation of the Moon is the state aim of many major space-faring nations in the coming decades. Reaching that aim requires many tasks, but one of the most fundamental is feeding those humans. Shipping food consistently from Earth will likely be prohibitively expensive shortly, so DLR, Germany’s space agency, is working on an alternative. This semi-autonomous greenhouse can be used to at least partially feed the astronauts in residence on the Moon. To support that goal, a team of researchers from DLR released a paper about EVE, a robotic arm intended to help automate the operations of the first lunar greenhouse, at the IEEE Aerospace conference in March.

Enter EVE, which consists of three main components. The transport rails allow the robot to move to the correct location in the greenhouse. Its robotic “arm” enables the robot to position itself effectively to complete its assigned task, and the end effector can push, pull, pick up, or perform other manual tasks. The system uses about 700W and weighs about 170 kg fully installed

Continuous human habitation of the Moon is the state aim of many major space-faring nations in the coming decades. Reaching that aim requires many tasks, but one of the most fundamental is feeding those humans. Shipping food consistently from Earth will likely be prohibitively expensive shortly, so DLR, Germany’s space agency, is working on an …

In the coming decades, NASA plans to send human crews back to the moon, build a space station in lunar orbit, establish a permanent base on the lunar surface, and—hopefully—send astronauts to Mars

Multifunctional tools

One of the biggest challenges in designing robots for these so-called SmartHabs is the multifunctionality needed for deep space habitation. Most industrial robots, such as those used to build cars or stock warehouses, are highly specialized and perform only a few specific tasks. But deep space habitats won’t have room for dozens of specialized robots. Instead, one or a few multifunctional robots will need to be able to perform many different tasks, including emergency repairs.

One project toward that end has been to develop multi-mode grippers that can change their shape to grasp different types of objects in different ways.

“Human hands can adapt to many functions, including those that need high precision, require high forces, or those that may benefit from compliance,” said Wood. “This design attempts to capture analogous adaptable behavior to increase the range of tasks possible with a single gripper.”

Working in a tight space

The first SmartHabs will likely be no larger than a mobile home and packed to the brim with equipment. Soft robots can be safer to operate around humans than traditional rigid ones, and could deform to more easily squeeze into tight spaces, but the softness also means they lack the strength they might need for some of the work they’re called on to do

A robot-friendly habitat

Robots that can handle tasks designed for humans is one of the long-term goals of robotics—but it will take a long time and a lot of work to achieve it. Is there a way to let current robots help out sooner, by designing equipment with robots in mind?

That is another avenue being explored by Werfel and the RETHi robotics team.

“Instead of bringing the robot up to the level of the human, we’re looking at bringing tasks down to the level of the robot, and building something that both robots and humans can easily operate,” said Werfel

Yes, a greenhouse with a robotic arm could potentially feed lunar astronauts.
Here’s how it could work:

• Controlled Environment: The greenhouse would need to be carefully designed to mimic Earth-like conditions, including temperature, humidity, and light levels.
• Plant Selection: The plants chosen would need to be hardy, fast-growing, and capable of thriving in a lunar environment. They should also provide a balanced diet for the astronauts.
• Robotic Assistance: A robotic arm could automate tasks like planting seeds, harvesting crops, and tending to the plants. This would reduce the workload for the astronauts and ensure consistent care.
• Nutrient Recycling: To minimize waste and conserve resources, the greenhouse could incorporate a system to recycle nutrients from the plants and astronauts.
  Challenges:
• Radiation: The Moon’s surface is exposed to harmful radiation, which could damage plants and equipment. Shielding would be necessary.
• Gravity: The Moon’s lower gravity could affect plant growth and development.
• Soil: Lunar soil, or regolith, is different from Earth soil and may require modifications to support plant growth.
  Despite these challenges, the potential benefits of a lunar greenhouse are significant. It could provide a sustainable food source for astronauts, reduce reliance on Earth-based supplies, and potentially contribute to long-term lunar habitation.
  Would you like to know more about the specific challenges or potential solutions for a lunar greenhouse?

Challenges and Potential Solutions for a Lunar Greenhouse:

1. Radiation:

• Shielding: Construct the greenhouse with thick, radiation-resistant materials like lead or polyethylene.
• Underground Greenhouse: Build the greenhouse partially or entirely underground to utilize the Moon’s natural shielding.
• Plant Breeding: Develop plant varieties that are more resistant to radiation.

1. Gravity:

• Artificial Gravity: Create artificial gravity within the greenhouse using centrifugal force.
• Plant Selection: Choose plants that are less sensitive to gravity changes.
• Hydroponics: Utilize hydroponic systems to support plant growth without relying on soil.

1. Soil:

• Regolith Modification: Treat lunar regolith with nutrients and water to make it suitable for plant growth.
• Artificial Soil: Develop a synthetic soil substitute that can support plant life.
• Hydroponics: Again, hydroponics can eliminate the need for soil altogether.

1. Temperature and Humidity Control:

• Climate Control Systems: Install advanced climate control systems to maintain optimal temperature and humidity levels.
• Insulation: Use insulating materials to minimize heat loss.
• Solar Panels: Harness solar energy to power the climate control systems.

1. Water Management:

• Water Recycling: Implement a system to recycle water from plant transpiration and astronaut waste.
• Water Harvesting: Collect water from lunar ice deposits or atmospheric moisture.
• Water Conservation: Use efficient irrigation methods to minimize water usage.

1. Plant Selection:

• Hardy Varieties: Choose plants that are known for their hardiness and ability to thrive in challenging conditions.
• Fast-Growing Species: Select plants with short growth cycles to maximize food production.
• Nutritional Value: Ensure that the plants provide a balanced diet for the astronauts.
  By addressing these challenges, a lunar greenhouse could become a viable and sustainable solution for feeding astronauts on the Moon. It would also provide valuable insights into the feasibility of long-term human habitation on other celestial bodies.

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