Numerical Simulation of Thermal Loads for In-Situ Constructed Lunar Bases

Building loads are critical design constraints for lunar bases and their thermal control systems due to the Moon’s extreme environment. In this study, we develop a directional solar irradiance model for the lunar surface and use numerical simulations to analyze the heating and cooling loads of in-situ regolith-based double-shell bases at different latitudes. The results show that the double-shell structure provides exceptional thermal insulation performance and reduces interior surface temperature fluctuations by a factor of six. The thermal insulation performance of the hollow layer is much better than that of the solid regolith walls. Building loads are found to be influenced by both solar and lunar surface radiation, showing non-monotonic variation with latitude. Under solar radiation, certain latitudes may exhibit cooling demands during daytime. Through strategic site selection, optimized architectural geometry and building envelope design, and environmental heat utilization, it is possible to maintain habitable indoor conditions while simultaneously reducing construction costs and operational energy requirements.