Life support systems are an integral part of crewed spacecraft designs
and habitation systems. This textbook introduces the LSS capabilities
that sustain humans who live and work in space, and it is written at a
level appropriate for both undergraduate and postgraduate students.
The book begins with the basics of space physiology before detailing the
features that make up different kinds of life support systems. It
includes concise descriptions of how atmospheric pressure is monitored,
how oxygen levels are maintained, how waste management is achieved and
how water is recycled, and also describes the processes of fire
detection and suppression. Several chapters are devoted to chronicling
the evolution of life support systems through the decades.
Each chapter includes a list of learning objectives, summary sections
and review questions. Additionally, various analogs for spaceflight life
support systems are examined, including nuclear submarines and our
natural life support system here on Earth! Overall, this book serves as
an approachable primer for any student seeking to understand the
intricacies of spacecraft life support systems.