Space Architecture

For many, the idea of Space Architecture as a discipline lies in the domain of science fiction, where everything is possible simply because it happens very far in the future. Is Space Architecture a fiction or reality? This book explores if and how architectural principles and strategies need to be transformed when applied to the extreme conditions of outer space. It presents concepts developed by great minds in the fields of space exploration and science-fiction, ones which can inspire new ways into the future. The book also presents the philosophy of Space Architecture, arguing for example that the design of space habitats needs to be human-centred while defining ways for humans to co-exist in new environments. These views are complemented by examples of architectures from current and planned space missions, organised by private companies as well as government agencies.

Dr. Olga Bannova, born in Moscow in 1964. Director of the Sasakawa International Center for Space Architecture (SICSA) of the University of Houston and its Space Architecture Master of Science program. Chair of the AIAA Space Architecture Technical Committee. Masters degree in Architecture and Space Architecture from the University of Houston; PhD from Chalmers University of Technology. Also worked as an architect in Moscow, focusing on industrial, office, and healthcare buildings. Her book Space Architecture Education for Engineers and Architects focuses on architectural strategies applied to solving complex multidisciplinary design problems. Dr. Marc M. Cohen is a licensed architect who has devoted his career to founding and developing the field of Space Architecture. He worked at NASAs Ames Research Center for 26 years, for Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems for 4.5 years, his own business Astrotecture® for 7 years, and now is with Space Cooperative. He was intensely involved in the Space Station programme (1983-2002): he contributed the patents that introduced the nodes, the cupola, and the predicted assembly sequence (US patent no. 4,728,060); introduced the two-chamber EVA airlock; and conceived the Suitport (US patent no. 4,842,224). Then Marc realised that while design is important and fun, the greater challenge is to pursue the design research that provides an evidence-based argument for innovation and change. So, now he focuses on the vital architectural research that can lead to new capabilities through scientific rigour. Marc earned degrees in architecture from Princeton, Columbia, and Michigan. Dr. Sandra Haeuplik-Meusburger is an architect and researcher specialising in compact habitability design solutions for extreme environments. She teaches and researches at the Vienna University of Technology and is director of the course Space at the Science Academy in Lower Austria. She has worked on architecture and aerospace design and research projects, as PI, collaborator, manager, and initiator. She has published several scientific papers and books.