Scientists have unveiled a prototype spacesuit system that recycles urine into drinking water. This innovative system aims to improve astronaut health and efficiency during extended space missions. The new urine collection garment replaces the current maximum absorption garments or adult diapers that astronauts have used for decades.
These diapers have been known to cause discomfort, leaks, skin rashes, odors, and even more severe health issues like urinary tract infections and gastrointestinal distress. Researchers have developed a novel in-suit urine collection and filtration system to address these issues. This system uses forward and reverse osmosis to remove urine contaminants and filter them into drinkable water.
The design includes a urine collection device with a silicon cup formed differently for men and women. This cup is made of multiple fabric layers, including antimicrobial fabric, to draw urine away from the body quickly. Once collected, the urine enters a filtration system that involves a two-step apparatus.
Spacesuit urine filtration system unveiled
This separates water from urine into a salt solution and extracts pure water further. The researchers propose that it could process 500 milliliters (0.9 pints) of urine in less than five minutes, recycling over 86.8% of it into drinking water.
The water is then pumped into the in-suit drink bag, replenished with electrolytes and potentially carbohydrates for added nutrition. The complete apparatus, which would be mounted as a backpack on an EVA suit, adds approximately 8 kilograms (17.6 pounds) to the suit’s weight. Despite the additional bulk, the increased comfort and resource efficiency are expected to outweigh this drawback.
This development is crucial, as NASA and private companies are reimagining spacesuit designs. While NASA canceled its contract with Collins Aerospace for ISS spacesuits, it continues to invest heavily in lunar mission suits through Houston-based Axiom Space. Although these advancements represent significant progress, the novel suits being developed still rely on the old-style diaper systems.
Researchers emphasize the importance of a more efficient waste and water management system, especially for extended missions planned under the Artemis program and future Mars expeditions.
