The atmosphere of Mars - Resources for the exploration and settlement of MarsThis paper describes methods of processing the Mars atmosphere to supply water, oxygen and buffer gas for a Mars base. Existing life support system technology is combined with innovative methods of water extraction, and buffer gas processing. The design may also be extended to incorporate an integrated greenhouse to supply food, oxygen and water recycling. It is found that the work required to supply one kilogram of an argon/nitrogen buffer gas is 9.4 kW-hr. To extract water from the dry Martian atmosphere can require up to 102.8 kW-hr per kilogram of water depending on the relative humidity of the air.
Document ID
19840056451
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Meyer, T. R. (Boulder Center for Science and Policy Boulder, CO, United States)
Mckay, C. P. (NASA Ames Research Center Space Science Div., Moffett Field, CA, United States)