Microbiological Studies on Life Support Subsystems for Manned Space Flight

Currently under investigation a t t h e Langley Research Center i n Hampton, Virginia, is a research t e s t chamber t o study and t e s t c r i t i c a l l i f e support subsystems f o r long-duration space missions.This system i s designed t o support four men f o r 90 days without resupply.C r i t i c a l l i f e support sub- systems include t h e recovery of water from urine, waste management, and personal hygiene.Microbiological studies i n support of t h e development and t e s t i n g of these subsystems a r e reported.Special emphasis w i l l .be placed on the microbiological problems associated with t h e recovery of water from urine using a wick evaporator system.Such factors as system s t e r i l i z a t i o n , a n t imicrobial treatment procedures, and laboratory methodology t o meet biological standards are discussed.-Laboratory investigations associated with other l i f e support subsystems a r e also presented.Microbiological r e s u l t s obtained during closed-door t e s t i n g of t h e integrated l i f e support system t e s t chamber are reviewed.