Functions of a CELSS

Our mission to Mars will then probably have a bioregenerative life support system which will perform all the basic functions of a life support system based on a natural cycle regenerative process.  The Advanced Life Support System (ALSS) concept is that a human life support system, supplying food, water, and oxygen, open with respect to energy but closed with respect to mass, can operate indefinitely in space without resupply from Earth.  This system, also known as CELSS,  will incorporate biological components in the synthesis, purification, and regeneration of basic life support.  CELSS will provide basic and continuous life-support requirements such as food, drinking water, cleaning water, and breathable atmosphere, by using plants as the central recycling component for waste.

CELSS FUNCTIONS

• Atmosphere revitalization
• CO2 removal
• CO2 reduction
• O2 generation/supply
• Trace contaminant monitoring and control
• Microorganism control
• Atmosphere control and supply
• Monitoring major constituents
• Atmosphere composition control
• Atmosphere constituent storage
• Pressure control
• Temperature and humidity control
• Temperature control
• Humidity control
• Ventilation
• Equipment cooling
• Water recovery and management
• Water storage & distribution
• Water recovery
• Water quality monitoring
• Waste management
• Metabolic waste management
• Other solid waste
• Liquid/gaseous waste
• Fire detection and suppression
• Detection of incipient fires
• Suppression of fires
• Cleanup after a fire
• Other functions
• Food storage and preparation
• Plant growth facilities
• Radiation protection
• External dust removal
• Thermally conditioned storage