The competition was won by AI SpaceFactory, which describes itself as a "multi-planetary architectural and technology agency building for Earth and space". Sounds about right.
Today, AI SpaceFactory was awarded $500,000 by NASA for the successful construction of our Mars habitat MARSHA. The 15-foot tall prototype was 3D printed during the final phase of NASA’s 3D Printed Habitat Challenge and included three robotically-placed windows.
AI SpaceFactory was announced the 1st place winner out of over 60 challengers. We were lauded for the automation of our print – completed with nearly no human assistance in 30 hours – as well as our innovative biopolymer basalt composite, a biodegradable and recyclable material derived from natural materials found on Mars. After withstanding NASA’s pressure, smoke, and impact testing, this material was found to be stronger and more durable than its concrete competitors.
“It’s light, and it’s strong, like an airplane. That’s going to be very important for these types of habitats,” said Lex Akers, Dean of the Caterpillar College of Engineering and Technology at Bradley University.
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Illustrating Classic Heinlein With AI
'Stasis, cold sleep, hibernation, hypothermia, reduced metabolism, call it what you will - the logistics-medicine research teams had found a way to stack people like cordwood and use them when needed.'
Deflector Plasma Screen For Drones ala Star Wars
'If the enemy persists in attacking or even intensifies their power, the density of the plasma in space will suddenly increase, causing it to reflect most of the incoming energy like a mirror.'