What if your next vacation took place on the Moon? Once confined to science fiction, this idea is now taking shape thanks to an initiative that could change our approach to space.
A California-based start-up, Galactic Resource Utilization Space (GRU), is offering reservations for a stay in a lunar hotel planned for 2032. Candidates must pay a deposit of one million dollars to be among the first visitors to what would be the first permanent fixed structure off Earth. The company hopes to pave the way for large-scale space tourism.
An artist's impression of the lunar hotel developed by Galactic Resource Utilization Space Ltd.
Credit: GRU
The construction of this establishment relies on an innovative technology. Indeed, GRU uses a proprietary system of habitat modules and an automated process to transform lunar soil, called regolith, into solid buildings. This approach reduces costs and timelines, with the start of construction planned for 2029, subject to regulatory approvals. The goal is to create sustainable infrastructure without importing large quantities of materials from our planet.
Behind this project is Skyler Chan, a recent graduate in electrical engineering and computer science from the University of California, Berkeley. He developed the idea while participating in a start-up accelerator, Y-Combinator, and secured funding from investors linked to companies like SpaceX.
The first expected customers are travelers who have already completed commercial space flights, as well as wealthy couples looking for a unique "honeymoon" experience. GRU believes tourism is a key driver for developing a lunar economy, offering a fast track to an interplanetary human presence. This vision aligns with broader space initiatives supported by government actors.
Prototype of a lunar material brick, 3D-printed using the GRU Space process.
Credit: GRU
To realize these plans, the company has released a document detailing an expansion strategy, starting with the luxury hotel and evolving into a larger colony. Skyler Chan expresses his optimism, noting that we are living in a time when becoming interplanetary is achievable. He hopes this project will spur other advances in space exploration.
The development of the lunar hotel, however, raises practical questions, such as resource management and traveler safety. Experts indicate that these obstacles require international collaboration and innovation. Despite the difficulties, the enthusiasm surrounding this venture shows a growing interest in space as an accessible destination.
The use of lunar regolith
Regolith is the layer of dust and rocks covering the Moon's surface. To build on site, scientists are exploring methods to use it as a construction material, thereby avoiding transporting resources from Earth. 3D printing with this regolith allows the creation of solid structures by fusing particles with energy, such as lasers or microwaves.
This technique significantly reduces the costs and logistical risks of space missions. It is inspired by processes developed on Earth for 3D printing with local materials, adapted to lunar conditions. Laboratory tests use regolith simulants to validate the durability and strength of the constructions.
The advantages include increased autonomy for lunar habitats, limiting dependence on Earthly supplies. However, difficulties remain, such as managing abrasive dust and extreme temperature variations on the Moon. Research is ongoing to optimize mixtures and printing techniques.
In the long term, this approach could be extended to other bodies, such as Mars. It paves the way for permanent colonies, where local resources are exploited to enable human life. Progress in this field depends on technological advances and funding dedicated to space exploration.