Futureproof: The Lunar Grid
The Nordic-USA Lunar Grid Pod exemplifies all the advanced learning gained through extensive research in extreme Arctic conditions. It is one of the most reliable and capable modules on the Sea of Tranquility.
Future Narrative
As we continue to extend our areas of exploration on the lunar surface, we have come to rely on grid pods as an extended safety envelope when away from one of our main facilities. Grid pods, placed at one-mile intervals, ensure that teams are never far away from essential life support systems, supplies, and a place to repair equipment or recuperate and recharge.
Before the grid pods were in place, working in the expanding areas of exploration was stressful. Last year, we started repurposing sections of supply rockets that were being taken out of fleet service to be used as grid pod shelters. These days, knowing that there are a few within a mile of where we work is comforting. Given the diversity of nations involved in lunar exploration these days, the pods are a bit of a mishmash, but that gives them a certain charm. Some even enjoy taking a break from base operations and the relative solitude of grid pod maintenance duty.
One of the original rocket module to Lunar Grid Pod conversions, Pod A-3 remains a familiar and comforting site after a long day on the Sea of Tranquility.
The Sea of Tranquility’s D-2 site is made up of several Lunar Grid Pods. It is the first site to connect retired rocket modules to create different types of zones. Several living habitat and vehicle maintenance pod modules are available at the site.
Lunar Grid Pod C-3 was the first dual-use pod with a pressurized habitat module and an unpressurized service bay.
Japan’s D-8 dual-use Lunar Grid Pod has a safety habitat and an optionally pressurized and external service bay.
The elegant D-4 international Lunar Grid Pod is a appreciated for its large window views and expansive interior. It also has the best espresso.
After many years of faithful service, the original Alpha-1 Lunar Grid Pod is still functioning. Now dependent upon the Sea of Tranquility’s Kennedy Base Station for power, it is a few meters from the south entrance. Steeped in history and character, it has remained a favorite across generations of lunar explorers.
Technology
Lunar Grid Pods utilize repurposed sections of rockets taken out of service. Provisions for pressurization, power, environmental controls, and supplies are all fitted, giving the rocket sections a valued second life on the lunar surface.
Signals
Necessity and access often drive innovation in remote locations here on Earth. Harsh conditions on the Lunar surface will likewise necessitate that resources be utilized in various ways, perhaps seeing uses in many forms across many lifetimes, thus increasing the sustainable nature of Lunar exploration.
Futureproof is a series of occasional provocations illustrating possible future paths for technology and culture. Think postcards from the future.