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Description
The purpose of this article is to analyze the illumination conditions in regions near the lunar south pole to select the best location to create a permanent lunar base. Compilation of best- and worst- case calendars for various high-altitude regions near the South Pole whose characteristics are close to parameters the “peak of eternal light”.
The lunar highlands differ from the ideal "peak of eternal light" due to the precession of the lunar orbit and the fact that the lunar topography was shaped primarily by asteroid impacts, meaning the highest local surface points are sections of the outer ring-shaped rims of craters. And these highest points on the rims of one of the crater near the South Pole periodically shadow each other. Thus, the illuminated and darkened areas alternate over time. If the speed of movement of the illuminated area on the surface does not exceed the speed of the rover, the rover can move along a route so as to remain within the illuminated area and receive a sufficient solar energy for a longer period of time than if it were stationary.
To determine the most optimal characteristics for a long-term stay on the Moon, it is necessary to analyze how various high-altitude lunar regions differ from the ideal "peak of eternal light."
Technical requirements for lunar rovers are determined by the characteristics of the most optimal regions.
Optimization also takes into account the following aspects:
Accumulation of solar energy during the illuminated period in the form of gravitational energy.
Changing the lunar surface - construction of embankments and demolition of rims.
Transmission of energy by power beaming from peak to peak over long distances.