Groundbreaking Spacesuit Recycles Astronauts’ Urine into Drinking Water
Imagine being able to go on a lengthy spacewalk without the constant worry of running out of water. Thanks to researchers at Cornell University, this might soon be a reality. Inspired by the “stillsuits” from the well-known science fiction series Dune, a new prototype spacesuit has been developed that can turn astronauts’ urine into drinkable water. This cutting-edge technology holds great promise for future space exploration missions.
Inspiration from Science Fiction
In Frank Herbert’s Dune, the desert-dwelling Fremen survive thanks to their ingenious clothing: stillsuits. These outfits recycle the body’s moisture, including sweat and urine, converting it into potable water. The Cornell team aimed to bring this concept to life and enable astronauts to stay hydrated during spacewalks.
Limitations of Current Spacesuits
Presently, astronauts rely on a maximum absorbency garment (MAG), essentially an adult diaper, for waste management during space missions. This system not only lacks comfort and hygiene but also poses health risks, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs). Furthermore, astronauts only have access to one liter of water, which is insufficient for longer spacewalks, typically lasting between 8 to 12 hours.
How the New Spacesuit Works
The new spacesuit prototype is designed with an innovative urine recycling system. Let’s break down its components and how it works:
- Collection Cup: Made of molded silicone with various shapes and sizes for men and women, it fits around the genitalia and ensures no leaks.
- Vacuum Pump: Activates automatically when the astronaut begins to urinate.
- Filtration System: Utilizes reverse osmosis to separate water from other substances, and a pump removes the salts.
- Purification: The resulting water is enriched with electrolytes before being pumped into the in-suit drinking bag.
The entire process of collecting and purifying 500 ml of urine takes only five minutes. Despite its efficiency, the system is compact and lightweight, weighing about 8 kg and measuring 38 cm by 23 cm by 23 cm.
Testing and Future Deployment
The design has garnered significant interest and is set to undergo rigorous testing early next year. One hundred volunteers in New York will evaluate the system’s comfort and functionality. Researchers also plan to test it in simulated microgravity conditions to ensure its reliability in space environments.
If all goes well, the prototype could be deployed by 2030 as part of NASA’s Artemis program. This program focuses on prolonged habitation and work on the lunar surface. The urine recycling system is part of NASA’s broader mission to ensure astronauts’ well-being and self-sufficiency during extended space missions.
Potential Terrestrial Applications
While the primary focus is on space, this technology could also benefit people on Earth. For instance, firefighters combating forest fires or hikers on long trails could use a similar system to maintain hydration in challenging environments. Researchers are optimistic that the urine recycling spacesuit could revolutionize both space exploration and terrestrial applications.
This new spacesuit marks a significant step forward in space technology by enabling astronauts to recycle their urine into drinkable water. Inspired by science fiction, it addresses the limitations of current spacesuits and promotes better hygiene and hydration. As testing progresses, we can look forward to a future where astronauts can explore space for longer durations without worrying about their water supply. The applications of this technology on Earth also make it a valuable innovation with far-reaching implications.