Vacuum insulation for a lunar-based power system

Current plans for the development of an established manned base on the surface of the Moon will require power levels from 100 kW up to 1 MW. Voltage levels for transmission will likely approach 10 kV, with distances between sources and loads of up to 5 km. Vacuum insulation is being considered due to its simple and low mass design. In this paper we discuss the problems in implementing large scale vacuum insulation in the lunar environment. Computer models have been developed to predict electrical energy loss and thermal energy flow. The advantages and disadvantages of several designs are discussed, including mass, size, and thermal management. Potential electrical breakdown mechanisms that might occur in the lunar environment are proposed