A new urine filtration system developed by researchers from Cornell University could revolutionize the way future astronauts explore space. The system, detailed in Frontiers in Space Technology, aims to provide astronauts with a continuous supply of safe drinking water by recycling their urine. This innovation would eliminate the need for heavy water reserves and bulky adult diapers currently used in space. With NASA planning manned moon missions in the near future, this device could play a crucial role in enabling astronauts to conduct longer missions and scientific explorations with ease.
The Urine Collection Device (UCD) is designed to weigh eight kilograms and filter a typical urination in less than five minutes. This device would replace the current Maximum Absorbency Garment (MAG) used by astronauts, which can hold up to two liters of urine, blood, and feces. The MAG, essentially a highly absorbent diaper, is not only uncomfortable for astronauts but also poses risks of skin irritation and infection during prolonged use. Additionally, astronauts have limited access to water during spacewalks, with only one liter available in their In-Suit Drink Bags (IDB). As missions to the Moon and Mars become more extended, astronauts will require more water to stay hydrated and perform at their best.
The UCD works by absorbing urine through a silicone catheter worn by astronauts. The device then filters out toxins and other solutes from the urine using an integrated reverse and forward osmosis system. The purified water is enriched with electrolytes and stored in the astronaut’s drink bag for consumption. The entire process is powered by a 20.5-volt battery and recycles urine with an efficiency of 85%. While the device adds weight and battery considerations to the spacesuit, researchers believe the benefits in terms of hygiene and water storage outweigh the drawbacks.
The concept of the UCD draws inspiration from Frank Herbert’s novel Dune, where characters wear “stillsuits” to recycle moisture into water. The device, shaped like a rigid backpack, resembles a cup worn by athletes to collect urine before processing. Initial prototyping of the UCD is underway, with researchers planning to test the device in simulated microgravity conditions. The aim is to ensure the system functions effectively in space environments similar to those astronauts will experience during future missions.
In a similar effort to harness moisture for survival, engineers from Hacksmith Industries recently created a suit capable of turning sweat into drinkable water using spare computer parts. While not a direct replica of the Dune stillsuits, these projects demonstrate how science fiction concepts can inspire real-world innovations. The development of the UCD represents a significant step towards sustainable water management in space exploration, offering astronauts a reliable source of potable water without the need for heavy water reserves or uncomfortable diapers.
