Space-borne Facilities for Detecting the Biodesrtructors and for Preventing the Biodamaging Processes Using Physical Methods in Relation to the Manned Martian Expedition

Paper number

IAC-05-A1.2.09

Author

Mr. Valerii V. Borisov, NTT Network Innovation Laboratories, Russia

Year

2005

Abstract

A long-term Earth-to-Mars return flight would inevitably feature variations in temperature and humidity. In certain stages the temperature at the surfaces of some structures and equipment would approach to a dew point to result in formation of pellicular moisture on them. The moisture would be a birthplace for growth of destructive microorganisms.
Under conditions of self-sustained crew life support at the routes of the interplanetary flight and inside a landing Martian module certain on-board equipment is required to ensure:
- early detection of biodestructors and monitoring of biodamaging processes progress;
- suppression of biodestructors with physical methods requiring no consumables.
It is proposed to employ the Bar set diagnostic devices to provide for early detection of biodegradation in structural elements. It is noted that the Bar set was developed for the International Space Station Russian Segment (ISS RS).
The devices in the Bar set provide for locating the areas favourable for growth of biodestructors. They also ensure visual inspection of their growth phases to conduct early diagnosis.
Growth of biodestructors could be prevented with physical methods by emitting high-rate ultrasonic waves with subsequent air disinfection with the Potok-150MK unit successfully operated at the Mir orbital station and at the ISS.
Combined operation of the devices provides for reliable purification of environment, interior surfaces and instruments/equipment from biodistructive and biodamaging microorganisms even in unaccessible locations in space vehicles.
Results of experimental studies show high effectiveness of the proposed methods and facilities.

Abstract document

IAC-05-A1.2.09.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-05-A1.2.09.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

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