The National Space Center (NCC) has been built on the site of the Khrunichev Center in the western part of Moscow. This project is just the beginning of the reorganization of the entire depressed industrial area, which is largely unused.
The NCC is a joint initiative of the space agency Roscosmos and the Moscow government. The main customer Roscosmos wanted to see the prototype of a spacgalleship in the appearance of its headquarters. For this reason, the complex was designed as a system of modules in the same way as in a spaceship. The space was zoned, delimiting the functionality.
The central feature of the proposed concept is a tall triangular tower that resembles a rocket. The Roscosmos logo is depicted on its roof. It is visible from many places in Moscow.
It is assumed that the Roscosmos Flight Control Center will be located in the tower, and several other rooms will be located in the adjacent long wing. A central gallery passes through the entire building. According to the creators, it symbolizes the passage of time and tells the story of space exploration.
Facade lighting plays an important role in the project. The main focus is on the tower, as it is the architectural and semantic center of the complex. A spotlight is installed at the very top, simulating the glare on the fairing of the rocket, and the linear lights are positioned vertically. Due to their dynamics, they create the effect of moving upward, and the cold white light further separates the high-rise part from the rest of the building. Warm-spectrum lighting fixtures are installed in the lower part. They simulate the launch flame flashing under the rocket.
The NCC will house the offices of Roscosmos member companies, as well as laboratories, production sites and research centers of leading Russian universities. A diversification center, an industrial bank, an educational center, as well as cafes and shops will also be located there. In addition, a convention and business center has been built there for more than 200 Roscosmos member companies. It is expected that about 20,000 employees will work there.
The construction of the center has become one of the most complex engineering and construction projects implemented in the city in recent years. Unlike other technology clusters and business centers, NCC is equipped with 73 engineering systems, including 39 specialized and 3 exclusive ones. The unprecedented complex of engineering systems guarantees uninterrupted operation of the NCC, a high level of security and sets new standards for the smart city concept.
The surrounding area is also landscaped. Public spaces, exhibitions and fountains have been organized, which has made it possible to create a place in Fili where every resident can comfortably and productively spend time. In addition, two new bridges and roads have been built in the area, which has improved transport accessibility. Two more bridges are planned to be built.