Antarctic analogs as a testbed for regenerative life support technologies

• Main Authors: Roberts, D. R., Andersen, D. T., Mckay, C. P., Wharton, R. A., Jr., Rummel, J. D.
• Format: Other/Unknown Material
• Language: unknown
• Published: 1991
• Subjects: 54; Antarctic; Polar Plateau; Antarc*; Antarctica
• Online Access: http://ntrs.nasa.gov/search.jsp?R=19920037962

The feasibility of using Antarctica as a platform for creating earth-based simulations of regenerative life support systems (LSSs) for future space missions is discussed. The requirements for a bioregenerative LSS and the types of technologies that may be used in such a system are examined. Special attention is given to the objectives and the organization of the NASA's CELSS program for the development of regenerative LSSs to support long-duration human missions in space, largely independent of resupply, in a safe and reliable manner. There are two types of locations on the continent of Antarctica suitable for the placement of simulation facilities: the polar plateau and the ice-free dry valleys. The unique attributes that lend each type of location to very different functions as simulation facilities are discussed.