CELSS stands for Closed Ecological Life Support System. It is a self-sustaining and closed-loop system that is designed to provide all necessary elements for humans to survive and thrive in environments that are isolated or constrained, such as space missions or extreme environments on Earth.
In a CELSS, all the necessary inputs, such as air, water, food, and energy, are recycled and regenerated within the system, minimizing the need for external resources. It aims to create a balanced and self-sufficient ecosystem, mimicking the natural processes found on Earth, to support human life in a closed environment.
A CELSS typically consists of various interconnected components, including air revitalization systems, water recycling systems, waste management systems, and plant cultivation modules. These components work in harmony to maintain a stable and sustainable environment for the inhabitants.
The main goal of a CELSS is to achieve a high level of autonomy and reduce reliance on resupply from Earth. It is crucial for long-duration space missions, where resources are limited and resupply is not feasible. By implementing CELSS technology, future space exploration missions can extend their duration and expand their reach, enabling humans to explore and inhabit distant celestial bodies such as the Moon or Mars.
CELSS systems also have potential applications on Earth, particularly in extreme environments such as deserts or polar regions, where natural resources are scarce. They offer the possibility of creating sustainable habitats and supporting human life in otherwise uninhabitable areas, contributing to the development of sustainable living technologies.
