The Fragility of Human Life in Space

“Humans are fragile, and because we’re so fragile, we require so much,” remarks Laura Forczyk, an astrophysicist and planetary scientist who leads the space consulting firm Astralytical.

To begin with, the Moon lacks a true atmosphere. Forczyk explains that while there is a thin layer called an exosphere, composed of a magnetically suspended mix of gases, it contains negligible amounts of breathable air. Attempting to inhale on the Moon would be as perilous as doing so in the vacuum of space.

Fortunately, breathing might not be the foremost concern for future lunar inhabitants. Forczyk mentions that we have developed effective air recycling systems on the International Space Station using the Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS). By incorporating lunar greenhouses with oxygen-producing plants, a similar mechanism could purify air within sealed habitats on the Moon, potentially supporting human life for extended periods. However, the initial setup would require transporting substantial amounts of life-sustaining gases, with costs soaring to over $1.3 million per pound.

The Challenges of Lunar Dust and Protection

The Moon's tenuous exosphere introduces additional challenges. The absence of wind results in no erosion, which has rendered lunar dust particles—known as regolith—particularly problematic. Unlike the rounded grains of sand found on Earth, regolith is sharp and abrasive, posing risks to both equipment and astronauts working on the lunar surface.

Moreover, the lack of an atmosphere means no shield against meteorites, which can strike the Moon at incredible speeds, endangering both spacesuits and structures. Thus, if future lunar settlers witness a shooting star, seeking shelter would take precedence over making a wish.

While lunar colonies wouldn't have to contend with hurricanes or severe weather, they must brace for an insidious threat: solar storms. The Moon's lack of a magnetic field leaves it vulnerable to high-energy particles from the Sun. In cases of intense solar flares, even Earth struggles to protect its infrastructure. Consequently, we would need protective materials like water or polyethylene to shield lunar structures from harmful radiation.

Seismic Activity on the Moon

Recent research has identified another lunar concern: moonquakes. Seismometers from Apollo missions have recorded ground shaking on the Moon reaching magnitudes of around 5, despite the absence of tectonic plates. While not as severe as some earthquakes, these moonquakes may still impact future construction. Temperature fluctuations can cause materials to expand and contract, leading to the formation of faults, necessitating structures that can withstand extreme temperature variations—from a scorching 260°F during the day to a frigid -280°F at night.

The Gravity Factor

The Moon's gravity is only about one-sixth of Earth's. Given the adverse effects of long-term weightlessness on astronauts, lunar residents must take measures to maintain their health. Research indicates that exposure to microgravity accelerates bone and muscle loss and can lead to cardiovascular issues. Consequently, astronauts on the ISS dedicate hours to exercise to counteract these effects. Living in reduced gravity on the Moon could similarly pose health risks.

Water Resources on the Moon

Establishing a lunar colony would also necessitate securing a water source. While an ECLSS-like system could recycle any water transported to the Moon, it wouldn't be entirely efficient, leading to gradual losses. Forczyk suggests the possibility of extracting hydrogen and oxygen from regolith particles to create water, though this would require considerable energy. Alternatively, setting up a settlement near the lunar poles, where ice deposits remain untouched by sunlight, could provide a more stable water supply.

Economic and Political Will: The True Obstacles

Interestingly, Forczyk and Courville argue that the most significant barrier to lunar habitation isn't environmental dangers but rather the economic and political will to pursue it. Currently, NASA lacks a concrete plan for sending humans back to the Moon, and other space agencies face funding limitations for crewed missions.

“Technologically, NASA has the ability, motivation, and expertise to do this,” Forczyk states. “The question is: Are people here on Earth going to fund it so we can actually accomplish it?”

Half a century ago, the Cold War space race spurred Apollo missions to the Moon. Today, the focus has shifted to using the Moon as a launch point for Mars and other destinations in the solar system. Courville notes that a permanent Moon settlement could significantly reduce the costs of deep space launches, given the Moon's low gravity and lack of atmosphere.

Whether the Moon evolves into a vital transit hub for Mars, a unique research facility, or merely a shopping destination, the challenges of establishing a permanent presence there serve as a reminder of how fortunate we are to inhabit a planet that meets all our needs.

Understanding the obstacles to returning to the Moon is crucial as we explore the prospects of human habitation.

Delving deeper into the complexities of returning to the Moon reveals the numerous challenges that await us.