LEAP2: Lunar Ecosystem and Architectural Prototype
The WEX Foundation uses LEAP2 as a framework for offering STEM experience to gifted and talented students using real world project challenges to help solve various technology solutions needed.
The WEX LEAP2 STEM Education program is the educational outreach component of the commercial LEAP2 lunar site development program being developed by an international consortium of aerospace industry organizations. The commercial LEAP2 program is led by San Antonio, Texas based XArc Exploration Architecture Corporation.
Intro to the LEAP2 Framework
The Lunar Site
The Marius Hills Skylight
The Marius Hills Skylight is a large deep lunar pit, approximately 48m x 57m wide x 45m deep, formed from a lava tube ceiling collapse. LEAP2 addresses space architecture issues in lunar exploration, economic development, mining, and sustainment at the Marius Hills Skylight site.
LEAP2 outlines a multi-phase lunar site development for the Marius Hills pit.
Lunar Site Development Phases
Six phases of the LEAP2 Framework
LEAP2 uses a notional timeline for a phased approach to scientific research investigations and technology development for the site. This phased approach framework allows investigators to focus on long lead technology items for development, (e.g. large area dome pressurization and construction, or civil engineering for lava tube infrastructure); or apply resources for immediate or short-term technology applications for mission development, e.g., investigations for scientific instrumentation and measurement, or robotic reconnaissance missions. LEAP2 consortium research investigations and insertion of technology development can be for any phase of our notional timeline.
LEAP2 and STEM Challenges
By attaching the LCATS program to actual technology, engineering and science challenges through the LEAP2 development phases, student learning aligns with real mission priorities for planetary surface systems engineering, mission operations, science experiments and instrumentation. It also allows students to freely advance ideas for technology concept investigations.
The WEX LEAP2 STEM educational outreach program uses real-world project challenges, connecting students directly with industry and aerospace professionals, offering them project-based learning with a meaningful product at the end.
Lunar habitation is one example of a real-world mission challenge that LCATS cohorts engage with.
A Sustained Learning Experience
A central thesis of the LCATS program is to allow students to form consulting teams for a 3-year experience that progresses through the LEAP2 phases of lunar site development. This mimics real-world, multi-year LEAP2 systems engineering missions.
LEAP2 Lunar Site Development, Phase 1, Remote Sensing Measurements
The LCATS Experience
LCATS Year 1
Remote Sensing Phase
LCATS Year 2
Reconnaissance Phase
LCATS Year 3
Habitation Phase
When the Dust Settles
An example of a Remote Sensing Phase project theme
LCATS cohorts from a range of age groups participate in a variety of projects, investigations, and field trips all with real-world Space-STEM challenges in line with the LEAP2 framework.
Cave QCM
Level: Middle School
Purpose: Basic Introduction to QCM Function
Activity: Assembly of QCM sensor kit
LCATS cohorts assemble QCM sensor kits and take measurements at the Robber Baron cave in San Antonio.
Stratosphere QCM
Level: Middle School & Undergrad
Purpose: Instrument Design
Activity: Breadboard design and fabrication of QCM upper atmosphere dust measurement instrument
LCATS cohorts perform a high altitude balloon launch.
Sub-Orbital QCM
Level: High School & Undergrad
Purpose: Flight hardware design for space environment
Activity: Design and build a sub-orbital payload using QCM brassboard for sub-orbital dust particle measurements and sensor calibration
Lunar QCM
Level: University Undergrad & Graduate
Purpose: Flight hardware design demonstration for lunar environment
Activity: Design, fabrication, test, and deployment of QCM lunar dust instrument prototype technology demonstration to lunar surface
Visit the XArc Site
Learn more about Exploration Architecture Corporation and LEAP2.
