This invention describes an inflatable shelter concept for lunar and Martian surface missions. The design features a lightweight, inflatable structure that employs a dual airtight zipper door enclosure to maintain a pressure-safe atmosphere for astronauts. This zipper mechanism, inspired by spacesuit designs, allows astronauts to seal and access the habitat from either inside or outside, addressing a critical gap in current emergency habitat technology. This allows for operation from both sides and includes a locking mechanism to prevent accidental depressurization. The shelter is compact enough to be carried on a rover or by hand and can be rapidly deployed to create a pressure-safe atmosphere for one to two astronauts. This streamlined and lightweight approach makes it ideal for short-term emergency use without requiring the bulky infrastructure of traditional, hard-shell habitats. Background: With upcoming lunar and Martian exploration, developing effective shelters is crucial for astronaut safety. Situations like rover malfunctions, suit failures, exhaustion, or injuries require quick access to protective habitats. Traditional metal-enclosed shelters are strong but heavy, making them harder to move and set up. By eliminating the need for bulky metal enclosures, the design significantly reduces weight and complexity, enabling portability and ease of deployment. This zipper-based design provides a compact, easy-to-carry solution, similar to a camping tent, for immediate deployment in emergencies. Applications:
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