PREVIEW

WORDS BYLINE: Hayley Chamberlain

A gigantic artificial moon soaring higher than most skyscrapers could soon glow above major cities across the world.

Plans have been unveiled for a string of ultra-luxury resorts built around a huge lunar replica, promising to bring a taste of space travel firmly back down to Earth.

The eye-popping concept is the brainchild of Toronto-based Moon World Resorts Inc., which has lifted the lid on its proposed $5bn mega-developments, each dominated by a vast moon structure at its heart. As well as unveiling dramatic renderings, the team behind the Smart City Masterplan has confirmed the ten international hotspots being lined up for the ambitious project.

The proposed 271-metre-diameter structures would rank as both the world’s largest and tallest true spheres. Rising 312 metres above ground level, they would eclipse the 157-metre Sphere in Las Vegas. According to the company, each spherical resort could welcome as many as 10,000,000 guests annually.

Moon World Resorts says construction on each development would take around 60 months, with the first location potentially opening its doors in 2032.

Under the plans, each fully integrated destination resort would feature “a 4000 room all-suite Five-Star hotel”, alongside an “authentic lunar surface and lunar base capable of welcoming 2,000,000 guests annually.” Guests could also expect convention centres, wellbeing and longevity hubs, restaurants, conference facilities and even an e-sports arena - all housed within or surrounding the vast moon structure.

The developments would go beyond hotel stays. Plans also include 10,000 luxury branded residences spread across 16 unique sphere buildings and 20 distinct tower structures, creating entire vertical communities beneath the glow of an artificial moon.

The company has identified ten regional licensee target locations spanning the globe. Australia is among the countries earmarked, as is Brazil in South America. In Asia, China, India and Thailand are all on the list, while Egypt has been named as a potential Middle Eastern and North African host. Across Europe, Poland and Spain have been highlighted. The UAE is also included, alongside the USA, rounding out the ten ambitious destinations.

UK space enthusiasts may need to be patient, however. Moon World Resorts co-founder Sandra G. Matthews says: "Currently no plans for the UK, however in the region we have positive interest from Spain."