How NASA keeps astronauts alive using a closed-loop life support system in space
In short: Home technology expert Ross Trethewey visits the NASA Johnson Space Center to explore the Environmental Control and Life Support System. Discover how the International Space Station recycles water, generates oxygen, and manages heat to sustain life in an extreme environment.
A critical component, the Water Processor Assembly, recovers and distills water from sources including breath and urine to create potable water.
Oxygen is produced by electrolyzing water from the processor, splitting it into hydrogen and oxygen. While the oxygen is circulated for the crew, hydrogen and carbon dioxide are vented externally. To manage the heat generated by equipment, the station uses an external ammonia loop that transfers heat to internal water/glycol lines, with air circulated across these lines to maintain a stable temperature.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Living on the Space Station | Future House | Ask This Old House
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