May 5, 2049 Living on the Moon Since 2022, scientists have been living on the moon to establish a space
station as well as the now familiar helium-3 lunar industry. The Peak
of Eternal Light is an imposing mountain on the south pole of the moon
which serves as home to the scientists stationed in this unique living
environment. Continually under the light of the sun, the Peak provides
excellent thermal energy for the inhabitants of the moon.
Within the “Comoonity” itself is the water reclamation center. Located underground, this center filters and sterilizes every single drop of water passed through the “Comoonity’s” sewage systems. Because of the moon’s lack of an atmosphere, any water exposed to the moon’s surface evaporates. As a result, recycling all used water is a must. Also inside the “Comoonity” is the VORTEX – Vortical Oxidative Reactor Technology Experiment. The VORTEX burns waste. In space, flames are weaker and flammable objects burn slower than they would on Earth. The VORTEX swirls the waste above the flame so that each part of the matter comes into contact with the fire. The ashes are then used for fertilizer for plants in the moon’s specialized greenhouses. The living quarters of the scientists are located near the base of the Peak. These quarters are located partially underground to provide protection from radiation. Solar power provided by the continuous light of the sun helps power everyday things like lighting, heating, and household appliances. The thermal energy is collected by solar panels stationed on top of the Peak of Eternal Light. Daily life in the quarters is in some ways very unusual. The reduced gravity of the moon and the distance from Earth can be credited with this change. Showering on the moon has to be done in minimal time to preserve much needed water. Not only that, the water collects in beads on the body instead of running down as it would on Earth. This makes a washcloth or handheld showerhead a necessity. Eating can also present challenges and, at times, can be very unappetizing. Some food, such as fruit, comes in its natural form. Unfortunately, fruit is considered a delicacy because it has to be imported from Earth. A limited number of vegetables can be grown on the moon in specialized greenhouses. Most other foods, however, are in freeze-dried packages due to shipping circumstances. Though you’re not likely to gain weight on the moon, exercising daily is inevitable. Without exercise there is a risk of losing bone and muscle mass. Regaining muscle mass is possible, but bone mass may not ever completely return. With decreased bone mass, it would be nearly impossible to function properly on the Earth. Exercising only takes up about an hour; so, when the scientists are done with their work, there’s still lots of time to fill. There are many things to do for fun on the moon. Lots of movies are available at the theatres. Another option is going out on a rover tour to see all the craters and ponder the great unknown. Scientists living on the moon enjoy having company. There are guest quarters which are much like a hotel on the moon. During a stay, a guest might take a trip on a Turbo Tourbus or enjoy a nice evening in the lunar lounge. To keep from getting homesick on the moon, there are ways to contact people at home through email and web cams. Malapert Mountain is constantly in connection with the Earth through radio waves because of its height and location. Sometimes the connection is lost, but this can be fixed easily. It’s important to keep in contact with other people, whether it’s your moon-mates, or guests coming for a visit. Your psychological health would be at risk without human contact. Being alone on the moon for long periods of time can lead to some odd psychological effects. This has been seen in how previous astronauts have responded once back on Earth. Some scientists have struggled with depression and other various mental problems. It’s safe to say that living on the moon will never be the same as home sweet Earth. Yet, there are many of the same comforts you have at home to make you feel more comfortable.
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