baktothemoon,<br /><br />This points up how much we have to learn by returning to the Moon. Also, we have to be able to keep an open mind regarding what designs will be suitable (!) for use on planetary surfaces. Perhaps a rover which has umbilicals that connect to a walkaround suit might be better that trying to pack the oxygen supply, heating and cooling system, batteries, communications gear, cameras, biosensors, and everything else into a backpack.<br /><br />The ability to range over large areas is likely to require a rover to support the required equipment. Construction will most likely be done by remote control, except for certain operations. The concept of putting on a suit and taking off on a long walk may be difficult to make possible.<br /><br />Didn't the Apollo backpacks weigh something like 120 pounds? <div class="Discussion_UserSignature"> The secret to peace of mind is a short attention span. </div>