Design as an Astronaut: An XR/VR Experience of the Argonaut Habitat Unit

This research explores the conceptual design of a lunar habitat integrated with the Argonaut lander, an autonomous lunar landing vehicle currently under development by an international consortium led by the European Space Agency (ESA). As Europe’s first lunar lander, Argonaut was conceived to provide ESA and relevant European stakeholders with independent access to the Moon. Although the lander is primarily designed to transport various types of cargo to the lunar surface, this study proposes its adaptation as a platform for future human habitation: the Argonaut Habitat Unit. The project is the result of an international collaboration between ESA, the MIT Media Lab, and Politecnico di Milano. Drawing on a wide range of methodological approaches, this paper reflects on key aspects of the concept, including its synergy with the existing Argonaut project, algorithmic modeling of a lunar habitat, consideration of technical requirements, and interior design development. The project addresses the spatial, material, and environmental constraints of lunar habitation through a combination of three-dimensional modeling software, computational design tools, and virtual reality (VR) development environments. The integration of VR offers an immersive understanding of the proposed habitat, enabling a first-hand experience of its spatial qualities. This approach supports both the evaluation and refinement of the design, enhancing its livability and practical feasibility.