1. Breathing in Outer Space

2. Problem
A typical orbiter is very small, with a livable volume of only 70m3. During most space missions, 7 people live in the tiny area. The air on the space ship is similar to Earth’s, that is, 80% Nitrogen and 20% Oxygen. The average person who is completely at rest (sleeping, reading a book, etc.) absorbs 300mL of oxygen gas every minute. If everyone on the orbiter stayed completely at rest for the entire space voyage, how long could they stay on the orbiter before they ran out of oxygen? (1 m3 = 1000L)

3. Problem ANSWER: About 4 ½ days! BUT…Orbiter missions last for 7 days
Where do they get the extra oxygen?

4. Finding Oxygen in Outer Space
Current Methods:
Pressurized oxygen tanks
Water electrolysis
Ideas in the Works:
Plants
Recycling CO2 to get water