Extensible Mars Base

The extensible mars base consists of a group of domes interconnected via multi-use corridors (Fig 1).

Spacecraft barrel sections are repurposed as connecting corridors (Fig 6, 9,10,19). Simple domes are to be manufactured additively, in place, between the barrel sections (Fig 11). One launch vehicle dome and sump per barrel segment is repurposed as cupola. The other dome/sump stays in place as firewall. The barrels are built with sealed side hatches, which are used on Mars for egress (Fig 9). Cupola is the windowed structure that sits on top of the dome (repurposed from flight hardware or built in place) (Fig 15, 17). In addition, printing in place (both monolithically or in facets) allows for a printed part to confirm to the landscape. Terrain can be scanned, design can tweaked and made to fit.

Structures are to be dome shaped due to the shape's strength (natural strength of an arch) making it capable of withstanding frequent dust storms. It also provides good insulation (