After successful completion of the course, students are able to do subject-related research independently and responsibly, to process a complex design task independently and in a small group, to recognize and discuss essential project-related issues, and finally develop and elaborate a coherent design solution, as well as appropriately presenting it to a professional audience.
(Image: The Martian,Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation)
The Mars Science City design studio topic fits into the long-term vision of the UAE to build a human settlement on Mars by 2117. The Mars 2117 programme will be developed and executed in partnership with major international scientific research institutions, with the first phase focusing on preparing the skills to achieve the necessary scientific breakthroughs. It will also seek to develop faster means of transportation to and from the Red Planet. It is envisaged that the city on Mars would first be built by robots. As part of the Mars 2117 vision, the United Arab Emirates will develop and build the Mars Science City. Its main goals are to research and simulate what life could be on Mars, to develop and test technologies and at the same time offer visitors a unique Mars-like experience. Students will (1) develop an architectural vision of that prototypical scientific city and (2) elaborate one part of it in detail.
The Mars Science City will comprise of simulation facilities for robotic and human space operations, research facilities for in situ resources utilization, laboratories for food, energy and water, agricultural testing, as well as exhibition, museum and educational spaces. It will be a city as it will host hundreds of permanent or temporary staff and visitors. With respect to an unknown and ‘to be created’ future, this course requires a great deal of team work and collaboration as well as ‘THINKING OUT OF THE SPHERE’. Students will work closely with experts from the fields of architecture, space architecture, civil engineering, energy design and science.
The studio will consist of two parts. In the first part, the students will start with extensive research in order to capture the requirements and restraints of the various functional areas of that complex. After having defined the framing parameters, students will start with their own specific project. Relevant themes to be included in the design are: versality and flexibility of space, Life cycle and renewable materials, power, food and water cycle, climate and energy design, construction phases and adaptation, as well as culture and heritage among others.
Subject-related research and its appropriate presentation, development of an independent design with plans, models and other arbitrary methods, compiling relevant research questions and discussion with experts, presentation infront of a professional audience, creation of a book chapter als summary of the project.
