This article discusses different types of Space Colonies.
Dutch version Ruimte Koloniën
- Space Station
This will be a transfer-station (refuel,freight-transfer). The first Stations (Luna Station 1 & 2) should be on the Moon. One on the near side and one on the far side. All Stations should have their own SuperComputer, telescope, Mass Driver and a Space Port as with as permanent human residence.
- Space Settlement
A Space Settlement is a small colonie,that will remain small. Because moons and small planets might never be able to support a real Colonie, which in my opinion should house millions -if not billions- of people in the future. (When mankind knows we have Space Colonies,I personally expect a worldwide baby-boom,that might even last for years since we will make progress almost everyday from the moment we really colonize space)
- Space Colony
This has everything a Station and a Settlement has, only it will house a lot more people. A Space colony will really grow up to be a 'new home' for humanity. They can come in many different types from an earth like city on a terraformed world to a large collection of enclosed units on or under the surface of a planet.