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Biosphere 2 Test Module: a ground-based sunlight-driven prototype of a closed ecological life support system
Advances in Space Research : the Official Journal of the Committee on Space Research (COSPAR)
|January 1, 1992
Summary
The Biosphere 2 Test Module, a large closed ecological system, has facilitated experiments on plant-soil dynamics, human habitation with complete resource recycling, and trace gas removal. It demonstrated capabilities for long-term ecological research.
Area of Science:
- Ecological Engineering
- Environmental Science
- Closed Ecological Systems
Background:
- The Biosphere 2 Test Module, established in 1986, is the largest sealed facility for closed ecological systems research.
- Its design features a 480 cubic meter variable volume, steel spaceframe construction with glass panels, and an atmospheric lung for pressure regulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct experiments on closed ecological systems, including plant-soil-atmosphere interactions.
- To investigate human survival in a closed environment with complete resource recycling.
- To assess the efficacy of component systems, such as soil bed reactors, in trace gas elimination.
Main Methods:
- Experiments involved manipulating light and temperature for plant-soil dynamics.
- Human experiments included 3, 5, and 21-day stays with integrated water and atmosphere recycling.
- Waste was recycled using a marsh plant/microbe system, and dietary needs were met internally.
- Trace gas removal capabilities of soil bed reactors were evaluated.
- Advanced analytical systems, including continuous gas monitors and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GCMS), were employed.
Main Results:
- The facility supported investigations into plant-soil-atmosphere dynamics under controlled conditions.
- Successful human habitation was achieved with complete water and atmosphere recycling and internal food production.
- The marsh plant/microbe system effectively recycled waste.
- Soil bed reactors demonstrated capability in eliminating introduced trace gases.
- Comprehensive atmospheric and water quality monitoring was established.
Conclusions:
- The Biosphere 2 Test Module proved effective for studying complex closed ecological systems.
- It validated technologies for life support, resource recycling, and waste management essential for future space exploration or isolated environments.
- The facility provided valuable data on ecosystem function and human adaptation in sealed environments.