Mars Academy

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

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