EarthBase: NASA’s SpaceSeed concept is to use a teleoperated Universal Constructor to establish a lunar spacebase. This lunar survival system (protective structure) with energy and communications subsystems encloses robotic manufacturing and maintenance, life support systems and an ecological biosphere for the inhabitants. EnGen’s EarthBase approach uses the same constructor-based architecture but is designed for conditions on Earth which is far simpler and easier to do. Universal Constructor: Von Neumann’s Theory of Universal Construction, that is ‘programmable matter’ theory is not a ‘mystery’, just advanced systemic assembly automation (i.e. ‘lights out’ automation of general- purpose factories having existing machine tools). The constructor factories and an integrated library of design knowledge can be developed in parallel. Mechanical ‘EvoDevo’, that is an evolving self-replicating machine, is not required. Design Staircase: EnGen has further refined the architecture, design and implementation of NASA’s SpaceSeed concept by identifying a systemic systems design staircase. Each level adds further advantageous design options and behavioural characteristics. The lower steps have already been developed and implementation of the remaining steps is achievable with funding.