LEGO-inspired Moon Bricks: How ESA is Reducing the Burden of Transporting Materials for Lunar Habitats

The construction of lunar habitats is a challenging task, with the burden of transporting materials from Earth being a heavy one. However, utilizing materials found on the moon itself could greatly reduce this burden. Scientists at the European Space Agency (ESA) have come up with an intriguing idea to address this challenge: creating LEGO-like bricks from space dust using a 3D printer.

These space bricks are not made from actual moondust, but rather a simulant taken from a meteorite found in Northwest Africa. Despite being rougher than traditional LEGO bricks, they can be stacked and assembled in various configurations, allowing scientists to test different construction methods and techniques. This not only helps in better understanding the challenges of building with moon materials but also in determining the most effective construction methods to use.

The ESA’s moon bricks will be showcased in select LEGO stores from June 20 to September 20, allowing the public to see this innovative approach to lunar construction. This project not only serves as an exciting scientific breakthrough but also paves the way for potential future moon-base construction using locally sourced materials.