Designing a mobile, deployable shelter for life beyond Earth — built by students at Cal Poly Pomona and guided by NASA engineers – Habitat Prototype for Mars
While studying architecture at Cal Poly Pomona, I had the unique opportunity to work on POLIS, a NASA-funded research project focused on developing a deployable rolling habitat for future Mars exploration. This hands-on design-build initiative aimed to push the boundaries of architecture by addressing the challenges of extraterrestrial environments through scalable, mobile shelter design.
The POLIS (Portable, Operable, Lightweight, Integrated Structure) system was envisioned as a compact, transportable habitat that could roll into place, expand for human use, and collapse for efficient transport. Our small student team was responsible for every phase—from concept to full-scale fabrication—constructing a dynamic structure using CNC-milled wood panels, flexible joints, and bracing systems.
We were mentored by engineers from NASA, who provided critical guidance in structural resilience, deploy ability, and environmental performance—key factors in the design of habitats for Mars or other planetary missions.
After completion, the POLIS prototype was exhibited at multiple universities and events across California, serving as a showcase of student innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration in space architecture.
Project Highlights:
- NASA-Funded Student Habitat — Developed under a NASA grant studying deployable shelter systems for Mars colonization.
- Rolling Shelter Concept — Designed to roll into place, expand, and function as a livable habitat in hostile environments.
- Cal Poly Pomona Design-Build — Fully built by architecture students using hands-on fabrication methods.
- Guided by NASA Engineers — Real-world mentorship in deployable systems, sustainability, and material performance.
- Public Exhibitions — Displayed at design showcases, universities, and innovation events throughout the state.
To explore more of the design thinking, construction progress, and project execution behind our work, visit the PAS Architects Facebook page or view project videos on our YouTube channel. PAS Architects is a licensed architecture firm based in Cerritos, California, specializing in Passive, Adaptive, and Sustainable design. We serve clients across Southern California — including Los Angeles County, Orange County, and Riverside County — with a service-driven approach rooted in technical clarity and long-term impact
