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MELiSSA: Higher plant chamber prototype
This activity was approved by the Aurora Board of Participants within the Work Plan 2005-2006 and should be initiated by the end of 2005.
Studies of bio-regenerative life support systems provide the technology to guarantee the autonomy of the crew during long duration space missions (Moon or Mars). So far, after 15 years of activities in Advanced Life Support, MELISSA Partners have accumulated the scientific experience to produce plants in a controlled environment at bench scale. Therefore, it is considered that the scientific knowledge is advanced enough to design and construct a prototype chamber.
Based on existing recommended design, a detailed design of the prototype will be proposed together with a production planning, harvesting and storage. Taking into account the requirements and specifications finalised in the detailed design, the selection of the subcontractors for the building of the prototype will be done (through an open tender restricted to Canada).
The prototype will be built, tested and validated (functional test and life test) before transfer to the UAB. The prototype will be integrated in the MELISSA pilot plant and complementary testing (for example testing of interfaces and integrated life test) will be performed. Whenever possible, recommendations and guidelines for operations, maintenance, troubleshooting will be given.
Eventually, the activity aims at finalising the design of MELISSA Higher Plant Chamber Prototype, building, integrating and testing the unit in the MELISSA pilot plant.
| Start |
Expected or actual duration | Status | Prime contractor |
|---|---|---|---|
| March/April '06 | 18 months | To be kicked-off | UOG + competition |