Regenerative ECLSS and Logistics Analysis for Sustained Lunar Surface Missions

Abstract

As NASA develops concepts for sustained crew missions to the lunar surface, a crucial component of mission planning will be evaluating the required amount of logistics to support the crew, surface systems, and science operations. This amount could be substantial. Because NASA plans to conduct these missions on an annual basis, the complexity and cost of logistics delivery will likely drive campaign sustainability. Logistics quantity is partially a function of the regenerative Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS) capability in habitable elements on the surface. The regenerative ECLSS recycles human waste to produce water and oxygen, reducing the consumables needed for a mission. Thus, an ECLSS with increased regenerative capability will require less logistics. However, an ECLSS with enhanced regenerative abilities will also increase the initial delivery mass of elements and require extra maintenance items and spares. This paper analyzes the tradeoff between initial delivery masses of different regenerative ECLSS options and the amount of logistics resupply required for each option.