Space Construction Technologies (Space Co.)

PROJECT MISSION

Due to the increased capability of both government agencies and private companies, space missions have become far more complex. Many of these missions involve building large structures, such as the Lunar Gateway, large satellites, or what is necessary for Moon/Mars habitation. These structures are too large to be launched as a single payload, requiring in-space construction. The ability to weld these structures together while in space would allow for strong, airtight seals and easy construction of many new structures. We are working on cold-welding technology to enable the construction of structures in space.

Project Goals

  • Our major deliverables for this semester are writing sample polishing procedures, designing and assembling a high-vacuum system, and cold-welding experiment test results. The minor deliverables include the tasks that were not fully completed last semester: finalizing and testing the hydraulic and glovebox systems
  • 1- Write Sample Preparation Procedures
  • 2- Design, Assemble, and Test High Vacuum System
  • 3- Manufacture Linear Motion Enabled High Vacuum Adapter
  • 4- Test Cold-Welding within High Vacuum Setup

Project Deliverables

  • The first deliverable is writing a full proposal for the EPSCOR R3 funding opportunity.
  • The second deliverable is completing the ultra-high vacuum system by integrating the ion pump, controller, and necessary adapters.
  • The final deliverable for this semester is completing four sets of cold-welding tests.

Next Steps