Note: Please remove the italicized instructions before submitting

Author: Kevin Russell Date: Jan. 15, 2025

Abstract#

The Earth-Space Conservation and Demonstration Center (ESCDC), is a 338 acre space education and research analog site in Washington, New Hampshire. Founder David Cheuvront, was the visionary study team member and co-author of NASA’s “ The Evolvable Lunar Architecture” document and a NASA ISS and Safety & Compliance focused Systems Engineer.

MoonDAO’s 2030 target of a minimum viable, self-sustaining lunar settlement by around 2030, culminating in a celebratory gathering is quickly approaching. During this past 4Q2025 Autumn, ESCDC’s 3 crew members rapidly stood up our first ESCDC operations for a successful World Biggest Analog (WBA) pilot; we're seeking to continue building the vision of our Founder David Cheuvront.

The site needs basic "life support" base systems— power, water, communications and environmental control, so we can further develop and host space: education, research and analog events (The 2030 celebration) that feels like it's happening on the Moon. Supporting at least 20-30 people (which can safely live and celebrate there-like they are in a lunar colony) is the goal for this proposal.

Problem#

Resilient and robust remote operation (and interoperability) is a key success metric for habitats. Of the 5 habitats in the US, this one (on 338 acres) is seasonally remote, with extremely cold Winter temperatures,with access only 6-7 months a year via std. roads). Though remote operation of infrastructure is required and planned, (just like in space), first humans must supply a bootup foundation. The ESCDC is a promising analog site, but it currently lacks the infrastructure to host a medium-sized group of people for an extended mission or program of event(s). Specifically, the off-grid power/storage, water (potable and waste), communications (Internet) and environmental systems (HVAC) systems are not yet robust, or reliable enough, to support 20-30 people simultaneously in this remote environment.

Solution#

This project involves a rapid infrastructure "sprint" and deployment plan to enable a functional event space and high-fidelity analog habitat. Aside from our evolving (phased) master plan, (and as robotic build services aren't yet affordable) - for this proposal cycle (1Q/2026)-minimal human habitation and operative system infrastructure is needed.  Specifically: A systems planning analysis plan is required to deliver robust and resilient:

• Power System: Quote, budget and schedule installation of an expanded off-grid solar and battery array.
• Water System: Quote, budget and schedule for implementing a sustainable water hauling/filtration system and upgrading food prep/bathroom facilities for high-occupancy use.
• Environmental Control: Quote, budget and schedule HVAC temperature control units and related environmental sensors.
• Communication System: Quote, budget and schedule Starlink satellite networking.

Benefits#

• Operational Asset: MoonDAO supports a "vetted" analog site for future space education,research, retreats, or content creation.
• Community Engagement: Provides a unique, real-world gathering point for members.
• The Future Event: Hosting a Lunar New Year's Eve style celebration to demonstrate these capabilities and promote MoonDAO’s mission.
• Revenue Potential: Once upgraded, the ESCDC could be rented out to other space organizations or for private glamping/analog experiences.

Risks#

• Permitting/Compliance: Remote builds may face local regulatory hurdles. We will consult with locals to ensure all upgrades are "up to code" and the event is not disruptive to the community or infrastructure.
• Timeline: Winter weather could delay construction. We are building a "buffer week" into the timeline.

Objectives#

Objective #1: Transform ESCDC into a mission-ready event space for 20-30 people on or before August 2026.

• Key Result 1: Successful quote and schedule to install and test 10kW off-grid power capacity.
• Key Result 2: Successful quote and schedule to install and establish a water system capable of supporting 500 gallons of potable usage.
• Key Result 3: Successful quote and schedule to install and establish environmental control system capable of supporting North HealyHab1 (TBD) square feet of space
• Key Result 4: Successful quote and schedule to install base Remote Communication (Starlink System).
• Key Result 5: Version 1 logistics plan and schedule for hosting 25+ attendees for a 24-hour period with zero system failures.

Team (Table A)#

Member(s) responsible for OKR and their role:#

Deadline for the project: End of Q3.

Transactions (Table C)#