Knowra Life-support system Life-support system A life-support system maintains breathable air, pressure, temperature, water, and waste control so people can survive in environments that cannot sustain them.
Environmental control and life support system : An integrated system that regulates cabin air, water, temperature, and waste for spacecraft crews. The International Space Station's system combines the functions that define life support.
Human respiratory system : The organs and tissues that exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide between the body and its environment. Breathing physiology sets the basic requirements for oxygen delivery and carbon dioxide removal.
Extravehicular mobility unit : A pressurized spacesuit system that protects an astronaut and supports work outside a spacecraft. It is a wearable life-support system for the vacuum and thermal extremes of space.
Open-circuit breathing apparatus : A breathing system that supplies gas for inhalation and releases exhaled gas into the surroundings. Unlike a closed habitat, it does not need to collect and recycle every exhaled breath.
Carbon dioxide removal : The capture or conversion of carbon dioxide from air to prevent harmful accumulation. Crew respiration makes continuous carbon dioxide control essential in enclosed habitats.
Hypoxia : A condition in which tissues receive insufficient oxygen to meet their needs. A failed oxygen supply can cause hypoxia before other system failures become obvious.
Submarine : A vessel designed to operate underwater, often for extended periods. Submarines must control air, pressure, water, and waste while isolated beneath the surface.
Closed-circuit breathing apparatus : A breathing system that recirculates exhaled gas after removing carbon dioxide and replenishing oxygen. Its compact gas loop illustrates a resource-efficient alternative to venting cabin air.
Oxygen generation : The production of oxygen for breathing from chemical, biological, or stored sources. Oxygen supply can rely on stored reserves or be replenished from water.
Hypercapnia : An abnormally high concentration of carbon dioxide in the blood. Inadequate scrubbing allows cabin carbon dioxide to accumulate and endanger the crew.
Show all 20