On September 25, 2024, the LUNA lunar simulation facility was opened in Cologne-Porz – an important milestone in the history of space travel. In close cooperation with the European Space Agency (ESA) and the German Aerospace Center (DLR), this modern training and test facility was created to prepare astronauts for future space missions under almost real lunar conditions.
Lunar simulation and technical innovations
The LUNA facility extends over 700 square meters and offers a self-supporting, air-conditioned hall in which astronauts can train scientific experiments and technical processes that are important for their missions. The floor is covered with regolith – a special mineral mixture that resembles lunar sand. In addition, specific lighting conditions simulate the atmosphere of the moon. The influence of lunar dust on equipment and spacesuits is tested in specially equipped dust chambers.
Reproduced craters and rocks create an authentic lunar landscape. A technical highlight of the facility is the planned Gravity Offload System, which simulates the reduced lunar gravity by cushioning the astronauts to one-sixth of their body weight.
A strong signal for the future of space travel
The opening of the LUNA facility attracted high-caliber representatives from politics and science. Minister President Hendrik Wüst emphasized the technological importance of this facility. The Minister for Economic Affairs, Industry, Climate Protection and Energy, Mona Neubaur, emphasized Germany’s role as a pioneer in space technology. Astronauts Alexander Gerst and Dr. Matthias Maurer also praised the center’s first-class training facilities and comprehensive equipment. The guests were given an impressive demonstration and gained an insight into future training procedures.
CSZ: Key role for innovative space infrastructure
As general planner, CSZ played a central role in the preparation and implementation of this project. The structural design, technical equipment, traffic planning, building physics and fire protection were developed in-house. The architecture was created in collaboration with the partner Hirschmüller und Schmidt.
The result is a futuristic building whose entrance design is reminiscent of a rising moon – a powerful symbol for looking to the future. On the outside, the LUNA hall presents itself as a white cube, while the interior offers a dark, impressive space that authentically simulates the lunar environment.
The LUNA facility is more than just a training center; it stands for scientific progress and international cooperation in space travel. For CSZ and its partners, the completion of this unique project marks a significant achievement and a small contribution to the success of future lunar missions.
