AquaLuna: The Search for Water

On my expedition to the Moon’s South Pole, I would bring a selenographist, an aerospace engineer, and a hydrologist. Our mission would be to understand aspects of the moon key for human survival. Throughout the week, we would study the Moon’s exosphere, testing different methods to extract the high levels of oxygen in the lunar crust along the way. Through these means, we would collect enough data to determine how to attain a sufficient amount of oxygen, for human survival on the Moon. My fellow selenographist would primarily focus on extracting these samples from the surface while testing for oxygen levels. Simultaneously, we would implement a device called AquaLuna in craters of the South Pole, like the Shackleton Crater. There is a high concentration of ice in the bowls of these craters, and AquaLuna will extract this ice from the surface and then process it through high temperatures to melt it. Then through a purification system, AquaLuna will remove any harmful or dangerous substances in the water. We aim for this water to be used for human consumption. Our hydrologist would then study the water quality and determine if it meets the standard for human consumption. Extracting water from the Moon would be highly efficient and significantly cheaper than transporting water from the Earth. The hydrologist would primarily focus on AquaLuna. This establishment of a water source would be another pivotal step toward colonization on the Moon, and allow humans with one of the necessities for survival. To ensure that the Moon Pod is functioning properly and that no issues emerge, our aerospace engineer will be present on board, running necessary safety checks. Overall, our mission would set the foundation for future missions and explore the possibility of human colonization in the South Pole region of the Moon.