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Bioregenerative life support systems for long-term space habitation: a conceptual approach
1Center for Engineering Infrastructure and Sciences in Space (CEISS), Department of Civil Engineering, Colorado State University, Fort Collins 80523-1372, USA.
Life Support & Biosphere Science : International Journal of Earth Space
|January 1, 1996
Summary
Developing advanced life support systems is crucial for long-term space exploration. This study presents an Engineered Closed/Controlled EcoSystem integrating humans, plants, and waste management for sustainable space habitats.
Area of Science:
- Space exploration
- Bioregenerative life support systems
- Ecological engineering
Background:
- Human space exploration necessitates reliable life support systems.
- Long-term missions to the Moon and Mars require closed-loop systems.
- Current life support systems face limitations for extended durations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a conceptual design for an Engineered Closed/Controlled EcoSystem (ECES).
- To integrate human, plant, and waste management processes for bioregeneration.
- To achieve material closure of metabolic loops for sustainable space habitation.
Main Methods:
- Conceptual design of an integrated ecosystem.
- Separation of waste streams for tailored treatment.
- Integration of physical/chemical and biological waste processing.
- Utilizing hydroponics for plant growth.
Main Results:
- The proposed ECES concept facilitates the closure of human and plant metabolic loops.
- Waste streams are managed to support plant growth and recycle resources.
- The system design addresses the life support needs of long-term space missions.
Conclusions:
- An integrated ECES offers a viable approach to sustainable life support for future space missions.
- Bioregenerative capabilities are key to reducing resupply mass and enhancing mission autonomy.
- This conceptual framework supports the establishment of human-tended Lunar and Martian bases.