On the use of Art in accelerating novel approaches in design and manufacturing techniques dedicated to Space applications

Abstract

Space exploration is undergoing exciting disruptive change, both through the advent of new business models and through the development of innovative technologies. As a consequence of this accelerated activity, innovative design and manufacturing techniques dedicated entirely to space exploration and exploitation are slowly emerging. These go beyond the simplistic approach of considering space as a harsh environment, and rather offers solutions adequately developed for alien environments such as interplanetary space or planetary bodies. As demonstrated in this paper, the art community is particularly relevant to support these efforts. We present a conceptual artwork designed from the interplay of materials and local astrophysical conditions and which form and substance evolves because of these. Our evolving sculptural installation uses the extreme lunar surface conditions as enablers rather than constraints. Giant Steps, a landmark exhibition of Space Art held in Seattle in 2016, presented a first opportun...