Purdue University is planning to initiate two more research projects that focus on human-crewed flight, following its ongoing partnership with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). These new projects will be in collaboration with NASA’s Artemis mission, with the aim of returning humans to the moon by 2024. Purdue University, known as the “Cradle of Astronauts”, has contributed significantly to space exploration over the years, with 25 of its graduates going on to become NASA astronauts.
The first project will involve researching and developing a new type of lunar habitat for astronauts. The habitat will be designed to withstand the harsh conditions on the moon, provide adequate living space, and ensure the safety and well-being of the astronauts. The research team, led by Shirley Dyke, a professor of Mechanical Engineering and Civil Engineering, will use a combination of physical testing and computer simulations to design and assess the performance of the habitat.
The second project will focus on reducing the risk of lunar dust contamination for both crew and equipment. Lunar dust is a significant concern for manned missions as it can cause damage to equipment, vehicles, and spacesuits, and can pose health risks to astronauts. This project will be led by Brandon Johnson, an associate professor of Earth, Atmospheric and Planetary Sciences, who will use computer simulations to study the behaviour of lunar dust during landings and takeoffs.
In addition to these projects, Purdue University is also involved in other research related to the Artemis mission. This includes studying the effects of long-term space travel on the human body, developing advanced propulsion systems, and exploring potential sources of water on the moon.
The new projects signify Purdue’s continued commitment to advancing human space exploration. The university’s long history of collaboration with NASA and its significant contributions to the space program make it uniquely positioned to undertake these research initiatives. These projects will not only have the potential to advance our understanding of the moon but also contribute to the broader goal of promoting safe and sustainable human space exploration.