csXe Full Press Release
The Center for Structures in Extreme Environments will focus on the study of structures in extreme environments. The Center will place particular emphasis on studies of offshore structures, aircraft structures, orbital structures, and Lunar/Martian structures.
In each of these instances, the required structures must be designed for an unforgiving and in some cases hostile environment. Extraterrestrial structures such as those appropriate for the Moon and Mars present added difficulties due in part to: the lack of atmosphere, the large distance from safety, often intense radiation, micrometeorites, extreme temperatures and temperature fluctuations, for example.
While the engineering issues are significant, the recent decision to establish settlements on the Moon and Mars establishes new challenges for policy makers. Economic, political and social issues related to human exploration and the settlement of the Solar System are serious, substantial and must be addressed in parallel with the engineering challenges. The Center will address these as well as a variety of related, critical engineering issues.
Initially, the Center will include graduate and undergraduate students, a post-doc, and a full time administrative assistant to run the day-to-day operations. An international Board of Advisors will be recruited, and affiliated members will participate in a variety of related activities. The Center will provide an exciting opportunity to work with the various communities within the Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Department, the School of Engineering, and other units at Rutgers University. Colleagues in other universities, government and industry will be incorporated into a Multidisciplinary program as an integral part of the Center’s focus.
Additionally, the Center will develop and host a seminar series, symposia and other meetings. Strategic alliances will also be forged locally with the FAA Technical Center in Atlantic City and the Port Authority of NY and NJ, as well as industry.
