We continue the series of interviews with the winners of the first Russian workshop ‘Space Inspector: Orbit Check’ organised by the International Congress of Young Architects and Designers MKM ARCH.
A team from the Pontifical Catholic University of Minas Gerais (Brazil) took 2nd place at the international workshop on space architecture. Their Barnacle project, inspired by a seashell, combines biomimetics and innovative technologies to create the outer module of space stations.
Team captain Juan Paco Vitor Rares shared his impressions of their participation.
- Your Barnacle module uses seashell biomimetics. How did you come up with this idea?
- The idea was born during a discussion about optimising space on the ISS. The station's existing seals already serve as storage, but we wanted to improve the concept by moving the storage to the outer surface. The inspiration came from barnacles - crustaceans that attach effectively to the hulls of ships without disturbing their structure. This allowed us to create a module that frees up interior space for crew life while maintaining defence properties.
- The project reduces the mass of the structure by 15% without loss of protection. What materials did you use?
- Carbon fibre composites formed the basis - they provided strength at minimum weight. To protect against micrometeorites, we added Kevlar plates that absorb shocks. A biomimetic shell enhanced the system's efficiency. Interestingly, during the presentation, this point provoked lively discussions.
- Were there doubts about the feasibility of the project? How did the experts evaluate the solution?
- The main doubts concerned the inflatable module expansion system. We considered Mylar, but automation in space required pressure and sealing issues. The experts discussed this in detail after the presentation. However, the traditional aerospace elements in the design gave us confidence in the feasibility of the project.
- How did you work on the international project?
-It was an invaluable experience. The remote format did not prevent us from combining cultural and professional approaches. The diversity of ideas helped to find unconventional solutions, and flexibility and co-operation were key to overcoming difficulties. This accelerated not only the project but also our professional growth.
- What impressed me about the organisation of the workshop by MKM ARCH?
- High professionalism: even the online participants felt involved. Especially valuable were the speeches of speakers - from theorists to representatives of space companies. Discussions about psychological comfort in station interiors and live broadcast with ISS astronauts were memorable. And the competition itself turned out to be incredibly dynamic!
-Are you planning to develop your project? Are you ready to co-operate with space corporations?
- Yes, we are already working on improvements. The competition confirmed the practical potential of Barnacle, especially with its combination of biomimetics and lightweight technology. We have to finalise the extension system, but we are open to collaborations. If companies are interested - we'd be happy to take Barnacle into the space!
- The main lesson of the workshop for your team?
- The value of an interdisciplinary approach. We learnt how to combine engineering, design and creativity, balancing functionality and innovation. Practical cases from industry experts and ISS astronauts showed how theory translates into reality.
- Planning to participate in the next MKM ARCH events?
- Absolutely! The workshop gave not only knowledge, but also a new perspective on the future of space design. Participation in MKM ARCH this year is in our plans. It is a chance to continue the dialogue with the world community and contribute to space exploration.
On the photo: team captain - Juan Rares, mentor - Pontifical University lecturer - Paulo Weisberg, team member - Paula Riquette.
A team from the Pontifical Catholic University of Minas Gerais (Brazil) took 2nd place at the international workshop on space architecture. Their Barnacle project, inspired by a seashell, combines biomimetics and innovative technologies to create the outer module of space stations.
Team captain Juan Paco Vitor Rares shared his impressions of their participation.
- Your Barnacle module uses seashell biomimetics. How did you come up with this idea?
- The idea was born during a discussion about optimising space on the ISS. The station's existing seals already serve as storage, but we wanted to improve the concept by moving the storage to the outer surface. The inspiration came from barnacles - crustaceans that attach effectively to the hulls of ships without disturbing their structure. This allowed us to create a module that frees up interior space for crew life while maintaining defence properties.
- The project reduces the mass of the structure by 15% without loss of protection. What materials did you use?
- Carbon fibre composites formed the basis - they provided strength at minimum weight. To protect against micrometeorites, we added Kevlar plates that absorb shocks. A biomimetic shell enhanced the system's efficiency. Interestingly, during the presentation, this point provoked lively discussions.
- Were there doubts about the feasibility of the project? How did the experts evaluate the solution?
- The main doubts concerned the inflatable module expansion system. We considered Mylar, but automation in space required pressure and sealing issues. The experts discussed this in detail after the presentation. However, the traditional aerospace elements in the design gave us confidence in the feasibility of the project.
- How did you work on the international project?
-It was an invaluable experience. The remote format did not prevent us from combining cultural and professional approaches. The diversity of ideas helped to find unconventional solutions, and flexibility and co-operation were key to overcoming difficulties. This accelerated not only the project but also our professional growth.
- What impressed me about the organisation of the workshop by MKM ARCH?
- High professionalism: even the online participants felt involved. Especially valuable were the speeches of speakers - from theorists to representatives of space companies. Discussions about psychological comfort in station interiors and live broadcast with ISS astronauts were memorable. And the competition itself turned out to be incredibly dynamic!
-Are you planning to develop your project? Are you ready to co-operate with space corporations?
- Yes, we are already working on improvements. The competition confirmed the practical potential of Barnacle, especially with its combination of biomimetics and lightweight technology. We have to finalise the extension system, but we are open to collaborations. If companies are interested - we'd be happy to take Barnacle into the space!
- The main lesson of the workshop for your team?
- The value of an interdisciplinary approach. We learnt how to combine engineering, design and creativity, balancing functionality and innovation. Practical cases from industry experts and ISS astronauts showed how theory translates into reality.
- Planning to participate in the next MKM ARCH events?
- Absolutely! The workshop gave not only knowledge, but also a new perspective on the future of space design. Participation in MKM ARCH this year is in our plans. It is a chance to continue the dialogue with the world community and contribute to space exploration.
On the photo: team captain - Juan Rares, mentor - Pontifical University lecturer - Paulo Weisberg, team member - Paula Riquette.