The CELSS Antarctic Analog Project and Validation of Assumptions and Solutions Regarding Regenerative Life Support Technologies

The CELSS Antarctic Analog Project (CAAP) is providing NASA and the National Science Foundation (NSF) with an understanding of the complex and interrelated elements of life support and habitation, both on the Antarctic continent and in future missions to space. CAAP is providing a method for challenging the assumption upon which the application of regenerative life support systems are based and thus is providing a heritage of reliability and dependable function. Currently in the early stages of the project, CAAP is laying a path in addressing system engineering issues, technology selection and integrated operation under a set of relevant and real mission constraints. Recent products include identification of energy as a critical limiting resource in the potential application of regenerative systems. Alternatives to the traditional method of life support system development and energy management have been developed and are being implemented in the CAAP testbed. Additionally, technology selections are being made from a library of choices based on real applications and system performance is being quantified. Performance of the testbed systems thus far is validating both the technologies and system management approaches. As progress continues in the design and construction phases of the New South Pole Station, current systems engineering and technology considerations will grow to include human interactions (human factors, dynamics, diet and health, psychology) and relationships with systems outside of the standard life support system elements.