Cornell scientists create Dune-inspired spacesuit for lunar missions

Space-related technologies are constantly evolving. Space agencies, led by NASA, are doing everything possible to enable trained astronauts to conquer the universe. Space flights are becoming increasingly popular, and private companies also want to send their people to places where no one has been before. Scientists, on the other hand, are doing everything to improve rockets, satellites, and spacesuits.

Researchers from Cornell University drew inspiration from the "Dune" movies and books to create a spacesuit that closely resembles the "stillsuits" in the popular series. This innovative creation can convert urine into drinking water in just five minutes. Currently, a prototype has been made, but scientists hope that a fully functional spacesuit will be usable by 2030 in the NASA Artemis program. This new suit is expected to be particularly helpful to astronauts during long spacewalks on the upcoming moon expedition. The prototype is designed to collect urine, purify it, and then provide it to the astronaut through a drinking tube. The entire process is expected to take about five minutes.

Sofia Etlin, a researcher from Weill Cornell Medicine and Cornell University and co-designer of the spacesuit, said in an interview with "The Guardian": "The project includes an external vacuum-based catheter leading to a reverse osmosis and direct unit, providing a continuous supply of drinking water with various safety mechanisms to ensure the astronaut's well-being. Currently, astronauts have only about a quart of water available in their drinking bags within their suits. This amount is inadequate for the planned longer spacewalks on the Moon, which can last for 10 hours, and up to 24 hours in emergencies."

Professor Christopher Mason from Weill Cornell Medicine, the study's lead author, added: "Even in the absence of a large desert planet like in 'Dune,' this innovation could significantly benefit astronauts. Our system can be tested in simulated microgravity conditions because microgravity is the primary space factor we have to consider."

The modern spacesuit system consists of a silicone cup-shaped to fit both male and female genitalia. It is placed in underwear made of multiple layers of elastic fabric. The cup connects to a moisture-activated vacuum pump that automatically turns on when the astronaut starts to urinate. Once collected by the vacuum pump, the urine is transported to the filtration system, where it is processed into water with an efficiency of 87%. The filtration process uses osmosis to separate the water from the urine and a pump to separate the salt.

The purified water is enriched with electrolytes, allowing the astronaut to get an energy drink from their own urine. The dimensions of the entire system are about 15 inches by 9 inches by 9 inches, and it weighs 18 pounds. The scientists plan to find and hire 100 volunteers in New York to undertake tests of this future spacesuit. Professor Christopher Mason adds: "These tests will ensure the functionality and safety of the system before its implementation in actual space missions."