Space Architecture: a Domus column by Valentina Sumini
Space architecture is rapidly evolving, merging design, engineering, and human factors to create sustainable extraterrestrial habitats. The Domus column on Space Architecture by Valentina Sumini, space architect and Research Affiliate at MIT Space Exploration Initiative, explores these developments, bringing expert insights and research-driven perspectives to a broader audience. Through monthly articles, the column highlights advancements in computational design, artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, extended reality (XR) applications, In Situ Resources Utilization (ISRU), and sustainability strategies shaping the future of space habitats.
The first two published articles set the stage for this exploration. The January 2025 edition introduced a discussion on designing sustainable habitats for the Moon and Mars, featuring insights from Dava Newman, MIT Media Lab Director, and Gui Trotti, space architect and professor at Arizona State University. The conversation emphasized modularity, closed-loop systems, and the role of AI in constructing self-sufficient and sustainable, environments beyond Earth. Key takeaways included the importance of adaptable structures, resource-efficient architecture, and human-centered design in generating extraterrestrial living spaces.