Future Livable Spaces
NASA: Mars HESTIA
With Isabel Torron and Dan Woolhiser
Overview:
The project was a sponsored collaboration between RISD Future Livable Spaces studio and NASA.
NASA's Human Exploration Spacecraft Testbed for Integration and Advancement (HESTIA) is a 3-story research test facility within a 20-foot inside diameter.
The 20-foot chamber facility was used to support Gemini, Apollo, and Skylab Missions. More recently, it was used to conduct 30, 60, and 90 day human Environmental Control & Life Support System (ECLSS) closed-loop testing in the 1990's for life support technology development on the International Space Station.
Currently, HESTIA is home for a developing high-fidelity Mars planetary surface analog to conduct research needed in support of next generation NASA Deep Space Missions in the areas of ECLSS, Human Habitation, and Human Health and Performance.
Objectives
Our group focused on specifically the space suit repair and maintenance portion of the maintenance and fabrication level; the first floor of Hestia.
We conducted an in-depth exploration of work-flow in hospitals and restaurants and thoroughly researched all the components and daily rustiness of astronauts on the ISS as well as past missions to aid us in creating an environment that contributes to the future Mars habitat's survivability.
We wanted to design a versatile work station that would allow for crew members to circulate efficiently around the workspace.
We focused on:
- Housing for the tools made accessible, while occupying minimal space
- A central workstation that can assist in repair or maintenance
- Modular attachments that are compatible with the central work island
- Pressurization of the suit
- Specific repairs; running diagnostics on suits
Process ideation for task lighting/attachments and interior layout
Render of figures inside habitat to scale
Proper Life Support system cover stowage
Rotational table function and usage demonstration
Camera mount and computer hub usage
Repairing a torn glove
