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In what could be a seminal development for space exploration, researchers from Cornell University have designed a new spacesuit for astronauts that can turn their urine into drinkable water.
This urine collection and filtration system for spacesuits addresses long-standing issues of comfort, hygiene, and water conservation during spacewalks. The prototype, similar to "stillsuits" from the science fiction franchise Dune, is set to revolutionise waste management in space.
The new system, detailed in a study published in Frontiers in Space Technologies, features a vacuum-based external catheter connected to a combined forward-reverse osmosis unit. This innovative design provides astronauts with a continuous supply of potable water, recycling urine with an impressive 87% efficiency.
Sofia Etlin, the study's lead author, explained that the system includes multiple safety mechanisms to ensure astronaut wellbeing. The design comes as a timely solution for NASA's upcoming Artemis missions to the Moon and planned Mars expeditions in the early 2030s.
The current maximum absorbency garment (MAG) system, in use since the late 1970s, has been a source of discomfort and health issues for astronauts. The new design aims to eliminate these problems while also addressing the limited water supply during extended spacewalks, which can last up to 24 hours in emergencies.
The prototype consists of a multi-layered undergarment connected to a silicone collection cup, tailored differently for men and women. A vacuum pump, activated by an RFID tag linked to an absorbent hydrogel, collects the urine for filtration. The purified water is then enriched with electrolytes and pumped back into the in-suit drink bag.
Weighing approximately eight kilograms and measuring 38 by 23 by 23 cm, the system is compact enough to be carried on the back of a spacesuit. It can process 500ml of urine in just five minutes, significantly improving water availability during spacewalks.
Dr. Christopher E Mason, the study's lead author, stated that the next step is to test the system under simulated microgravity conditions before deploying it in actual space missions.
This innovation marks a significant leap forward in space technology, promising to enhance astronaut comfort and efficiency in future deep space exploration.
