Frontiers of Space:
Resources and Settlements
on the Moon and Mars
FRONTIERS OF SPACE: Resources and Settlements on the Moon and Mars
Dates: March 17–21, 2025
Time: 16:00–18:00
Location: Pescara
Instructor: Prof. Ignasi Casanova (UPC Barcelona)
As part of the Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters, the short course Frontiers of Space – Resources and Settlements on the Moon and Mars offered an in-depth exploration of the scientific, technological, and socio-political challenges surrounding human settlement and exploration of the Moon and Mars. Structured in five thematic sessions, the course provided participants with a comprehensive overview of the key issues shaping the future of space missions and extraterrestrial colonization.
Course Program & Topics
🛰️ Day 1 – Environmental Conditions on the Moon and Mars
An introduction to the harsh environmental realities of the Moon and Mars, and their implications for human activity:
Extreme temperatures and radiation exposure
Lunar and Martian geology
Atmospheric conditions (or lack thereof) and survivability challenges
🤖 Day 2 – In-Situ Exploration Strategies
A focus on cutting-edge methods and tools for scientific research and exploration in space:
Scientific techniques for resource mapping and planetary analysis (1 hour)
Advanced exploration technologies: rovers, drones, and AI-based tools (1 hour)
🔧 Day 3 – ISRU Technologies (In-Situ Resource Utilization)
Exploring technologies that allow astronauts to use local resources, a cornerstone for sustainability in space missions:
Extraction of oxygen and water from lunar regolith and Martian ice (1 hour)
Power generation systems and sustainable food production methods (1 hour)
🏠 Day 4 – Habitats for Extraterrestrial Settlements
Design and engineering of space habitats that ensure long-term human presence on other celestial bodies:
Lunar habitats – modular construction challenges and regolith-based radiation shielding (1 hour)
Martian habitats – pressurization, thermal control, and sustainability solutions (1 hour)
🌍 Day 5 – Case Study or Socio-Political Issues
A dual-track session offering either a technical case study or a broader discussion on the governance of space exploration:
Option 1: Case Study – Asteroidal Water for Lunar Development
Evaluating the feasibility of using asteroid-sourced water for lunar settlement
Mining techniques, transportation logistics, and integration with lunar infrastructure
Option 2: Socio-Political IssuesUpdates on human missions to the Moon and Mars: recent developments and planning strategies
Planetary protection policies and the ethical dimensions of space exploration
Special thanks to Prof. Ignasi Casanova, for his insightful and inspiring course and Prof. Gian Gabriele Ori (Project Coordinator), for this interdisciplinary dialogue between space science and architectural innovation.
