The study of living systems

Abstract Macroengineering projects are not limited to large-scale construction and technology. They also involve people who must operate or use them. It is important to consider the needs for a proper balance of matter, energy, and information flowing into and out of the system. The planning and design phase of macroprojects, such as the proposed colonization of the moon, should involve the measuring and monitoring of key variables of living as well as nonliving systems. New ways to do this are being developed.