Lunar base infrastructure construction: Challenges and future directions

Abstract

As deep space exploration advances, agencies such as National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and The European Space Agency (ESA), along with other nations, have developed mid-to-long-term plans for lunar habitation, including the construction of lunar infrastructure. This article reviews existing lunar construction concepts and designs, analyzing their importance for sustained human presence on the moon. It summarizes research progress in transportation, navigation and communication, energy, and habitation infrastructure, addressing construction processes, site selection, building materials, and structural design. Additionally, the article highlights the challenges and future directions in lunar infrastructure construction. There is an anticipation for more scholars to apply civil engineering expertise to deep space endeavors.