// ORBITAL LOGISTICS AND PROPULSION TERM
Colonization
Colonization in space refers to the process of establishing a permanent human settlement on another planet or celestial body. This involves building habitats and infrastructure.
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
The long-term establishment of self-sustaining human habitats and infrastructure on extraterrestrial bodies, such as Mars or the Moon, involving resource utilization, life support systems, and societal development.
BACKGROUND
Space colonization, or extraterrestrial colonization, is the establishment of human settlements or colonies in outer space and on astronomical bodies. The concept, in its broadest sense, has been applied to any permanent human presence in space, such as a space habitat or other extraterrestrial settlements. It may involve a process of territorial occupation or resource control for commercial purposes, such as extraterrestrial mining.
READ MORE ON WIKIPEDIASYNONYMS & ALIASES
- Space settlement
- Extraterrestrial settlement
- Off-world colonization
- Planetary settlement
USAGE NOTE
Mars colonization is a long-term goal for several space agencies and private companies.
DEVELOPERS
Organizations developing technology related to Colonization.
Developing Starship, a fully reusable rocket system designed to transport humans and cargo to the Moon and Mars, with the ultimate goal of enabling human colonization of Mars.
Through programs like Artemis, NASA is working to establish a long-term human presence on the Moon as a stepping stone for future human missions to Mars, conducting research on habitats, life support, and long-duration space travel necessary for colonization.
Developing reusable launch vehicles, lunar landers (Blue Moon), and orbital habitats (Orbital Reef concept with Sierra Space) to support human presence and economic activity in space, foundational for future colonization efforts.
Building the world's first commercial space station, comprising modules that will expand the International Space Station and eventually operate independently, providing critical infrastructure for future off-world habitation.
Developing the LIFE (Large Integrated Flexible Environment) habitat, an expandable commercial space station module designed for orbital destinations and potential future use as lunar or Mars surface habitats.
Engaged in research and development for sustainable human presence on the Moon, including concepts for a 'Moon Village' and advanced life support systems, paving the way for future off-world settlements.
Pursuing ambitious lunar and Mars exploration programs, including plans for robotic and potential human bases on the Moon, which contribute to the long-term goal of space colonization.
Developing concepts and technologies for deep space habitats and human landers for lunar and Martian missions, often in partnership with NASA, essential for establishing sustainable human outposts beyond Earth.