Project Overview:
The Washing in Space Environments (WISE) system is an innovative laundry solution designed to meet the unique challenges of microgravity and modified gravity conditions in space. It provides astronauts with a practical, efficient, and sustainable method to clean clothing, enhancing hygiene and overall well-being during long-duration missions.
Key Features:
- Dual-Drum Design:
- The WISE system utilizes a high-speed dual-drum design for washing, extracting, and drying clothes using a multi-phase motor, reducing power consumption and vibration while maintaining efficiency.
- Gyroscopic Suspension:
- A gyroscopic suspension framework minimizes vibrations and prevents momentum transfer to the spacecraft, maintaining its orientation and stability during operation.
- Water Recycling and Filtration:
- The system employs a closed-loop water recycling mechanism with integrated storage tanks and reusable filtration systems, continuously purifying greywater and reducing overall water consumption.
- Vacuum Drying and Centrifuge Water Retrieval:
- Vacuum drying combined with centrifuge water extraction ensures thorough cleaning and water reclamation, making it an effective solution for conserving resources in space.
Commercial and Research Applications:
The WISE system offers numerous commercial and research opportunities, including:
- Technology Validation:
- Provides a platform for validating water management and recycling technologies in microgravity, contributing to advancements in sustainable space habitation systems.
- Payload and Partnership Services:
- Potential for partnerships with research institutions and private companies to test new materials and hygiene technologies in space.
- Educational Engagement:
- Involves university and research communities in the design, testing, and optimization of the system, enhancing student engagement in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields.
Impact on Space Missions:
The WISE system addresses the need for sustainable hygiene solutions in space, reducing waste and enhancing astronauts’ comfort and health. By minimizing water usage and reusing resources, WISE supports long-term space exploration and paves the way for future space missions with improved living conditions and resource management.
IAC 2024 Milan paper
