New Scientist According to the report, researchers in New York have developed a device weighing 8 kg that can be fitted in a space suit. It will have an osmosis filter with the help of which it will convert urine into drinkable water. Scientists at Cornell University have given information about this new device. Space Technology Frontiers It has been reported in a journal called.
The research team noted that the currently used diaper system could be a temporary solution to this problem. But if the astronauts’ activity during space walks lasts for a long time, then a long-term solution would be needed.
NASA currently provides astronauts with a Maximum Absorbency Garment to pass urine. This is basically an adult diaper that collects urine and feces. At the end of the space walk, these are discarded in the space station’s waste system, after which they are burned in space.
Under the new system, scientists have invented a device which is light in weight. It separates water from the urine and purifies it. This process is completed in just 5 minutes. It will also have a humidity sensor which will automatically detect the urine.
As soon as urine is detected, a vacuum pump is activated which draws the urine into a filtering device. It cleans and purifies the urine by extracting water from it, then sends it to the drinking bag attached to the space suit. Although the system is still in its initial stages, it has been tested working effectively in the lab.