NASA’s Mission to Conquer Space Laundry
The Problem: Dirty Laundry in Zero Gravity
Astronauts on the International Space Station (ISS) face a unique challenge: there’s no laundry facility in space. As a result, their soiled clothing accumulates, creating storage and weight issues. Furthermore, the lint from cotton fibers can clog filters.
The Solution: Odor-Resistant Clothing
NASA is tackling this problem with a new study aimed at extending the lifespan of astronauts’ garments. The study involves providing ISS crew members with exercise clothing treated with antimicrobial compounds or made with antimicrobial yarn.
The Antimicrobial Revolution
Antimicrobial materials are designed to inhibit the growth of bacteria and other microbes. By incorporating these materials into clothing, NASA hopes to reduce odors and the need for frequent laundering. The antimicrobial yarn and coating being tested are both commercially available, so if successful, “astronaut-approved” workout gear could soon be available to the public.
Resupply Mission Delivers New Clothes
On a recent resupply mission, astronauts received a shipment of new exercise clothing. They will wear these clothes during their daily two-and-a-half-hour exercise regimen for a total of 15 days.
Testing and Evaluation
After each exercise session, the astronauts complete a questionnaire to assess the odor resistance of the clothing. They also hang the clothes up to dry for up to four hours before storing them in flame-resistant bags.
Benefits Beyond Space
If the research proves successful, the development of odor-resistant clothing could have wide-ranging applications beyond space travel. For example, it could benefit athletes, healthcare workers, and anyone who wants to reduce their laundry frequency.
The Future of Space Laundry
NASA’s study is a significant step towards solving the problem of laundry in space. By extending the wearability of astronauts’ garments, the agency can reduce waste, improve storage capacity, and enhance the overall well-being of its crew members.
Additional Details:
- The ISS crew goes through approximately 900 pounds of clothing each year.
- The antimicrobial clothing is commercially available, so it could potentially be accessible to the public in the future.
- The study involves testing both antimicrobial yarn and an antimicrobial coating.
- The astronauts’ exercise regimen consists of two-and-a-half hours of activity per day.
