This book explores creative solutions to the unique challenges inherent
in crafting livable spaces in extra-terrestrial environments. The goal
is to foster a constructive dialogue between the researchers and
planners of future (space) habitats. The authors explore the diverse
concepts of the term Habitability from the perspectives of the
inhabitants as well as the planners and social sciences.
The book provides an overview of the evolution and advancements of
designed living spaces for manned space craft, as well as analogue
research and simulation facilities in extreme environments on Earth. It
highlights how various current and future concepts of Habitability
have been translated into design and which ones are still missing. The
main emphasis of this book is to identify the important factors that
will provide for well-being in our future space environments and promote
creative solutions to achieving living spaces where humans can thrive.
Selected aspects are discussed from a socio-spatial professional
background and possible applications are illustrated.
Human factors and habitability design are important topics for all
working and living spaces. For space exploration, they are vital. While
human factors and certain habitability issues have been integrated into
the design process of manned spacecraft, there is a crucial need to move
from mere survivability to factors that support thriving. As of today,
the risk of an incompatible vehicle or habitat design has already been
identified by NASA as recognized key risk to human health and
performance in space. Habitability and human factors will become even
more important determinants for the design of future long-term and
commercial space facilities as larger and more diverse groups occupy
off-earth habitats.
The book will not only benefit individuals and organizations responsible
for manned space missions and mission simulators, but also provides
relevant information to designers of terrestrial austere environments
(e.g., remote operational and research facilities, hospitals, prisons,
manufacturing). In addition it presents general insights on the
socio-spatial relationship which is of interest to researchers of social
sciences, engineers and architects.
