Posted on 11/24/2010 4:40:44 PM PST by kronos77
Russian scientists are developing automatic sealing systems to protect future manned space stations on the Moon and Mars from debris, Russia's Central Research Institute of Machine Building said.
"Protection of spacecraft modules against micrometeorite impact and space debris, based on the use of protective screens, that is passive protection, is at the limit of its technical capability due to weight restrictions," the institute's experts said.
"This is why we need to develop new protection based on self-sealing systems capable of independently and quickly restoring the object's air-tightness in case of leaks," they said.
Scientists said there are three ways of self-sealing a spacecraft. The first is to place a plug into the hole and thus stop the air leak. The second is to feed liquid sealant into the rupture, and the third is a combination of the two methods.
KOROLYOV, November 23 (RIA Novosti)
...and the Russians press ahead.
Any word on who’s winning on Dancing with the Stars?
The Russians are building a moonbase and we’re trying to help Muzzies feel good about themselves.
The first permanent lunar base may be visible only by the solar array above it, collecting energy.
“I really think permanent bases on the Moon and Mars will need to be burrowed into the soil. “
I agree on the Moon, maybe not so much on Mars. In any case, we’ll see what the Chinese and Russians come up with - hopefully they’ll have streaming and a translator for us.
Any thoughts on Dancing with the Stars?
/johnny
“LOL! you really are torqued at the mindset/focus of the ‘mericun peeple, aren’t you.”
Yea - it’s just been annoying since the election. The Dems are set to ram a whole bunch of crap down our throats and we’re spending all our time on Dancing with the Stars, and TSA pat-downs - not to mention TOTALLY IGNORING the rest of the world they pass us by.
Once this Congress is disbanded, I’ll (hopefully) calm down a bit.
I agree that underground is the way to go, but there are some other things that can go on the surface as well, such as high gain antennas.
There is also value in partial protection on the surface. Assuming there are some nuclear reactors available, cut stone walls can provide “outdoor storage”, to reduce damage to equipment, and eventually such cut stone can be used to make landing pads. There would also probably be permanent tethered weather balloons for Martian atmospheric studies and over the horizon communications.
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