L2-STR-FRAME
CRITICAL
STRUCTURAL
Level 2 · hardware
Structural Framework
Primary Structural Framework and Truss System
Load-bearing skeleton, trusses, and connection nodes between modules
Purpose
Carry all structural loads and connect modules into integrated Ark structure
Context
Component of L1-STR within the Lunar Ark system
Principles
- ▸Truss structures provide high stiffness-to-weight ratio for equipment mounting
- ▸Modular frame sections enable robotic assembly and reconfiguration
- ▸Structural load paths must be clearly defined for predictable stress distribution
- ▸Material selection balances strength, fatigue life, and thermal cycling resistance
Typical implementations
- ▸ISS Integrated Truss Structure (aluminum longerons and cross members)
- ▸SpaceX Starship stainless steel monocoque structure
- ▸Bigelow BEAM expandable module aluminum/Vectran structure
- ▸NASA Gateway module primary structure concepts
Lunar considerations
- ▸Must support regolith overburden loading (shielding) without excessive mass
- ▸Thermal cycling -173C to +127C causes fatigue over 100 years
- ▸Foundation interface must accommodate regolith settling and moonquake loads
- ▸Robotic assembly and maintenance access must be designed in from the start
Specifications
Functional
| primary function | Carry all structural loads and connect modules into integrated Ark structure |
Operational
| thermal range c | -173, 127 |
| lifetime years | 100 |
Interfaces
Provides
- Primary structural load-bearing framework for all Ark systems
Requires
- Foundation system supporting frame loads
Decomposes into
L3-STR-FRAME-TRUSS
Primary Truss Structure
Main longitudinal and transverse truss members forming the backbone of the Ark, transferring all primary loads between m
L3-STR-FRAME-LONG
Structural Longerons
Main longitudinal structural members carrying axial loads along Ark modules
L3-STR-FRAME-JOIN
Structural Joint System
Joint assemblies connecting structural frame members with provisions for assembly and inspection
L3-STR-FRAME-BRKT
Equipment Mounting Brackets
Standardized brackets and rails for mounting equipment to the structural framework
Cite this entry
Lunar Ark Codex. "Structural Framework" (L2-STR-FRAME). Retrieved 10 September 2026, from https://lunarark.com/entry/L2-STR-FRAME
Licensed CC-BY-SA 4.0. You may reuse and adapt this entry with attribution, under the same licence.