Life Support Systems Analysis and Technology Trades for a Lunar Outpost

摘要

The Office of Advanced Concepts and Technology funded the development of a rigorous systems analysis software tool for physical-chemical life support. As part of this development, a technology trade study was conducted to illustrate the use of the tool. This document presents the results of this study. Such studies can help break down the mindset that repeatedly commits enormous resources into a variety of technology hardware - even up to flight qualification - before performing rigorous systems analysis. By conducting system and technology trade studies at every branch of the technology development decision tree, great savings in resources can be realized. Life support system and technology trades were performed for a hypothetical lunar outpost using the NASA/JPL Life Support Systems _Tjnalysis(LiSSA)software tool. Steady-state material and energy balance calculations were made using a chemical-process simulation program called ASPEN PLUS on a one-person, daily basis. Inputs to the life support simulation model included metabolic balance load data, hygiene load data, technology selection, and various assumptions for process operations.