Following the Space Architecture Trade Study published last summer, the Aurelia team has focused on a flight-scale version of TESSERAE. This habitat aligns with NASA's objectives for future Commercial LEO Destinations, catering specifically to the burgeoning field of biotechnology research in microgravity. This focus encompasses two primary areas: Protein Crystallization, vital for drug discovery related to diseases like muscular dystrophy and breast cancer, and Biologic Medicines, which are crucial for the development of pharmaceuticals derived from natural resources.
Envisioned to host a crew of four, including two biotechnologists alongside career astronauts, TESSERAE represents a shift from the standard cylindrical space stations. Its open central volume and tile-based modular assembly reflect a new direction in space habitat design. This approach not only meets NASA's goals for commercial LEO development but also accommodates crew from non-traditional backgrounds.
TESSERAE's design eliminates the need for crew extravehicular activity (EVA) during assembly, addressing both cost and safety concerns. Critical systems like power, thermal, avionics, life support, and guidance will be integrated pre-launch, while internal systems such as storage and research equipment will be outfitted post-assembly.
The Aurelia Institute is conducting a trade analysis to optimize these systems, aiming for modularity and minimal crew installation requirements. The habitat's design is based on human-centered principles, ensuring an inclusive and comfortable environment. This includes exploring "softer" materials, customizable acoustics, and adjustable thermal zones.
The executive summary delves into the preliminary subsystem analysis and architecture recommendations, focusing on electrical power, thermal control, and life support systems. It also compares the habitat's structural design and interior layout options with current space habitation standards.
Aurelia Institute is actively developing TESSERAE, iteratively building and testing the hardware platform towards a future crewed habitat mission. This process includes continuous design refinement and the evaluation of novel concepts in microgravity.
In summary, the TESSERAE habitat by the Aurelia Institute represents a novel approach to space habitation, with a particular emphasis on supporting biotechnology research in microgravity. Its design and functionality reflect a significant departure from traditional space habitats, promising to make life and work in space more efficient and comfortable.
Research Report:TESSERAE's Case Study
Related Links
TESSERAE: Self-Assembling Prototypes
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