Spacewalking astronauts to consume recycled urine for hydration purposes
In a significant leap forward for space technology, a new urine collection and recycling system has been proposed to simplify the management of astronauts' urinary needs during spacewalks. The innovative device, detailed in a paper published in the journal Frontiers in Space Technology, could potentially revolutionise the way astronauts navigate their personal needs in microgravity environments.
The new system, which includes an undergarment made from a soft compression material lined with antimicrobial fabric, features a moisture sensor in a silicone cup under the genitals. This sensor detects urine and triggers a vacuum pump, directing the fluid to a filtration device worn on the astronaut's back. Measuring approximately 38 centimeters high and 23 centimeters wide, the filtration device weighs 8 kilograms and transforms urine into drinking water.
Initial laboratory tests have shown that the device is effective in removing the main components of urine and reducing its salt content, complying with health standards. If these ground tests prove conclusive, the system could be tested during real spacewalks from the International Space Station (ISS).
The new system aims to significantly improve astronaut comfort and health, as well as represent a significant advance for long-term missions such as future trips to the Moon or Mars. Currently, astronauts use disposable diapers called maximum absorbency garments (MAGs) during spacewalks. The new system, if successful, could replace this practice, potentially reducing waste in space.
The effectiveness of the new system under microgravity conditions similar to those encountered in space has yet to be verified. However, the potential benefits are clear. The new urine collection and recycling system could simplify the process of managing astronauts' urinary needs during spacewalks, a crucial step towards making long-duration space missions more feasible and sustainable.
References:
- Frontiers in Space Technology
- NASA - Water Recycling Systems
- NASA - International Space Station
- NASA - Exploration Technology Development
- The new urine collection and recycling system, detailed in a paper published in Frontiers in Space Technology, has the potential to revolutionize health-and-wellness practices for astronauts, as it aims to significantly improve comfort and health during space missions.
- This innovative technology, which includes a filtration device with a moisture sensor, could potentially replace the current practice of using disposable diapers during spacewalks, reducing waste in space and contributing to fitness-and-exercise efforts through waste management.
- By simplifying the management of astronauts' urinary needs during spacewalks, the new device could contribute to the sustainability of future long-term missions, such as trips to the Moon or Mars, according to NASA's Exploration Technology Development.
- With initial laboratory tests showing effectiveness in meeting health standards, researchers are now planning to test this system during real spacewalks from the International Space Station, marking a significant advance in space-and-astronomy research and science.
