Abstract
In XXI century it is necessary to expect the recommencement and development of activities on mastering the Moon. In the long term it is construction of manned lunar bases with industrial, astrophysical, procuring, repair equipment and services. Interplanetary flights from the Moon demand smaller power expenditures, than from the Earth, therefore it is favourable to use its surface for the construction of space-vehicle launching sites. Flights of devices in libration points in the system 'Earth - Moon' are considered. Experience of engineering system creation for the Moon displays the great complexity in provision of serviceability and reliability of friction units. Open friction units should operate under following conditions on the Moon: pressure of environment (vacuum) $p\;>10\;^{-10}$ Pa; wide range of temperature change $+150^{\circ}C\;...170^{\circ}C$; high evaporability of lubricants; influence of temperature gradients and warping of constructions; sublimation of elements of constructional materials; irradiation of different physical nature; effect of micrometeorites; reduced gravitation; influence of abrasive particles of lunar ground; requirements on minimization of size and weight characteristics of a construction (high tension); undesirability (impossibility) of application of liquid and plastic lubricants; vibration, shock, acoustic loadings during start and landings to the Earth; difficulties in repair-regenerative operations in conditions of the Moon etc. Adhesive interaction of conjugated surfaces is the principal reason of possible failures of rubbed units on the Moon. In the research of the Moon automatic interplanetary stations of 'Luna' (USSR), 'Surveyer', 'Apollo' (USA) series were used. Stations executed functions of flying, landing, artificial satellites of the Moon, moon-rovers and manned spacecrafts such as 'Apollo'. The experimental- theoretical researches carried out in the sixtieth years on tribology for conditions of the Moon appeared to be rather useful to engineering of an outer space exploration and the decision of complex problems for the friction units operating in extreme conditions on the Earth. For the creation of highly loaded friction units for the long service life on the Moon it is required not only to use accumulated experience and designed technologies, but also to carry out wide scientific research.