LUNA ‐ A Modular Dome Designed by Graphic Statics and Constructed from Discrete Foamed Glass Blocks

This project develops a moon-inspired masonry dome for a new Lunar Mission Control at MIT, employing novel construction techniques to balance structural efficiency and sustainability. The Luna dome is constructed from blocks of foamed glass, a lightweight and easily machinable material that ensures compliance with the load-bearing limits of the floor beneath. No mechanical connections or mortar are used so that the structure is a no-tension assembly of blocks. The stability of the partial dome geometry is demonstrated with graphic statics following a modified version of the Wolfe method. By discretizing the geometry into optimized segments, the structure enables rapid construction with minimal formwork, reducing material waste and labor intensity. Designed with modularity in mind, the dome can be disassembled, relocated, and reassembled. This work demonstrates how unconventional materials and modular construction methods can redefine the possibilities for transportable, reusable architectural systems.