A Concise Review of Resource Requirements for Future Space Exploration

Establishing a lunar base is a critical goal for many aerospace powers. To achieve this goal, various resources such as life support materials, energy, and shelter are required. However, current research only focuses on the methods for collecting materials and the corresponding technologies required for lunar bases without comparing their advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, it is essential to conduct a comprehensive and concise literature review of current research. This review should discuss in detail the fundamental materials and energy requirements for astronauts living in a long-term lunar base and the specific means to meet those demands. The review should begin with the development process of human spaceflight life-support systems and highlight the limitations of transporting survival materials from Earth. The review emphasises the importance of utilising in-situ lunar resources. This review is the first to combine the materials, energy, and habitation requirements for astronauts residing at a lunar base. It analyses the theories and technologies necessary to meet these demands, their advantages and disadvantages, and how different technologies can be combined to construct a lunar base that meets production requirements. The aim of this review is to provide researchers in a specific field with a comprehensive understanding of the factors to consider when developing a lunar habitat, thus facilitating future research.