The Noah Disaster Shelter

The Japanese have done it again. This modern-looking bubble is a disaster shelter designed by Cosmo Power. The company’s president, Shoji Tanaka, is proud to introduce the floating spherical capsule to the world as a miniature “Noah’s Arc”, which is where the water-proof shelter gained its namesake, the “Noah”.

The Noah is 1.2 meters (4 feet) in diameter and is made from enhanced fiberglass that is incredibly buoyant. It will protect up to four adults (or one American adult) from the dangers that occur during natural disasters including earth quakes, floods and tsunamis. The capsule is built to withstand heavy blows to the exterior and is also designed to remain “upright” in the event that it is washed out to sea (and comes with a centrally located pole to prevent its inhabitants from getting tossed around). In case of turbulent winds or strong waves, the Noah is resistant to damage caused by driftwood and large rocks, and will maintain its durable nature for up to 100 years.

There are air holes on the top of the capsule, as well as a small look-out window. The vibrant yellow colour was chosen by the designer because of its likelihood to stand out against the colour of water (although be warned that the vibrancy of the colour may fade over the course of 10-15 years if subjected to sunlight).

Cosmo Power has received 600 pre-orders for the Noah already. The Noah is also being marketed as a toy house for children that can be stored in the house until disaster strikes, that is. The unit costs 300,000 Yen (approximately US$4,000).