European airline giant Airbus has unveiled a new space habitat concept that will be more spacious and comfortable than existing space stations.
Called the Loop, the multipurpose orbital module features three adjustable surfaces connected via a tunnel surrounded by an integrated greenhouse. Airbus says the orbital habitat is designed for a crew of four but can be modified to accommodate up to eight astronauts. in the current situation (Opens in a new tab).
At 26 feet (8 m) wide, the LOOP is designed to fit the next generation of super heavy launchers, such as SpaceX‘S Starshipand thus can be deployed with a single launch and habitable as soon as it arrives in orbit, said Airbus.
Related: NASA is looking for private outposts to build on the legacy of the International Space Station
In its basic configuration, the LOOP features a housing surface, a science surface, and a generating centrifugal surface artificial attractions, where residents can get temporary relief from zero-gravity conditions. It is known to man The body quickly deteriorates in the absence of gravity, with muscle and bone eroded by neglect. absence gravity It also confuses the human nervous system with spatial orientation, often resulting in nausea in the early days of orbital travel.
“Airbus LOOP is designed to make a longer stay in space comfortable and enjoyable for occupants, while at the same time supporting efficient and sustainable operations,” Airbus said in a statement. “It builds on everything that has been studied for decades and fully exploits the potential of future technologies to support humanity’s future in space: in low Earth orbit or lunar orbit, or on long-range missions.” Mars. ”
The space habitat concept, which Airbus says offers passengers more interior space than existing space stations, could be ready to fly in the early 2030s after its useful life ends. International space station.
Previously, Airbus led the consortium that was built Columbus European Unit from the International Space Station and Automated transport vehicles which serves as a cargo carrier for the orbiting laboratory. The company is currently responsible for building Server Orionmade to power NASA’s crew capsule Artemis Lunar exploration program.
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