Students Test Prototype Landing Pad to Make Lunar Operations Safe
This summer, a team of students and researchers at the University of Alabama in Huntsville successfully conducted three rocket-motor firing tests on a prototype lunar landing pad. The tests showed the prototype’s ability to capture and redirect rocket exhaust through an integrated vent system, marking an important milestone in developing landing infrastructure for future Moon base operations.
Spacecraft vertical landing and takeoff on the lunar surface create a significant amount of debris, or regolith, which can damage equipment and pose risks to astronauts and other spacecraft. To address this issue, NASA has partnered with the University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) and Linc Research Inc. to develop modular, vented landing pads for safe operations.
Led by Dr. Judy Schneider, the research team successfully tested a prototype at UAH's Propulsion Research Center, demonstrating its ability to capture and redirect rocket exhaust. The prototype, measuring 3.65 m (12 ft) in diameter, is made of concrete components with integrated sensors. The modular design allows for easier construction and maintenance on the Moon, where resources are limited.
The tests showed that the vented, modular approach can effectively redirect exhaust plumes and prevent heat damage to the landing pad and surrounding structures. The team is now working on a larger 6 m (20 ft) pad for further evaluation at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center.
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