The project to build an international lunar village

The new director of the European Space Agency, Professor Johann-Dietrich Wörner (Johann-Dietrich Wörner), took office just over a month ago, but has already managed to offer an ambitious project. Speaking at the UK Space Conference Conference 2015 in Liverpool, he высказал the idea of ​​creating an international lunar station , which will become the center of basic research and a platform for the launch of interplanetary craft.

The station should always be on the back side of the Moon, which will facilitate the launch vehicles and space surveillance, and protection from terrestrial radio interference.

For the construction of buildings in the "lunar village 'Wörner suggests using lunar soil, regolith, and 3D-printing technology.

According to him, over time, the development of space tourism happen, so that the lunar village (Lunapark) become a popular destination among tourists, as well as travel to Earth orbit.

"The Americans say the main purpose of Mars, but I am convinced that this is not so - says Wörner. - We need an interim target. Luna is very interesting from a scientific point of view and is achievable for people at the present level of technological development. For Mars and other planets need a completely different technology ».

Wörner said that the construction of a lunar station possible cooperation by all countries, including the US, Russia and China. He said that the example of the International Space Station is excellent shows that different countries willing to cooperate in space.

ESA Director hopes that the village will be built lunar after end lifecycle of the ISS, that is after 2024.

Source: geektimes.ru/post/260154/