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ECLSS Lab Platform - Current Activities and Future Plans in the ECLSS Ecosystem in Japan
No full textMotoharu Kusano, Tokyo University of Science, JapanTaisei Hasumi, Amateras Space, JapanAkihiko Murata, Muroran Institute of Technology, JapanEmika Fujii, Kyoto University, JapanToshihiko Chiba, Keio University, JapanYuki Ban, Tokyo University of Science, JapanHikono Furuichi, Tokyo University of Science, JapanKazuki Toma, The University of Tokyo, JapanYuhei Yokozeki, The University of Tokyo, JapanNaoshi Suzuki, Space NS Plan, JapanTetsuya Tsuru, JAMCO Corporation, JapanMasato Sakurai, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), JapanICES307: Collaboration, Education Outreach, and Public
EngagementThe 54th International Conference on Environmental Systems was held in Prague, Czechia, on 13 July 2025 through 17 July 2025.The ECLSS LAB, a Japan-based platform, promotes education
and technology development
for the Environmental Control and Life Support System
(ECLSS), a critical component of
human space exploration. The platform comprises a network
of students and professionals
focusing on building foundational ECLSS knowledge,
fostering talent for next-generation
technologies, and facilitating collaboration among
industry, academia, and government. In 2024, ECLSS LAB
participated in conferences held in Japan and overseas,
showcased
technologies at public events, visited Japan’s Closed
Ecosystem Experimental Facility
(CEEF), and engaged in discussions with international space
agencies. This paper presents an overview of these
activities, assesses the current state and challenges of
Japan’s ECLSS technologies, and explores future directions
for technological advancement
Innovative Computational Strategies for Minimizing Plasma Formation, and Reducing Outgassing in High-Power Microwave (HPM) Devices
No full textThis research aims to enhance the operational efficiency of High-Power Microwave (HPM) devices by minimizing undesirable plasma formation during operation. Plasma formation occurs primarily due to the emission of gases dissolved in the anode host and the desorption of surface contaminants, followed by the ionization of such species. The presence of plasma in HPM systems can lead to pulse shortening and reductions in repetition rate. These issues need to be overcome through the development of various outgassing reduction techniques and the design of advanced anodes with minimal outgassing properties. Firstly, the present study investigates thermally driven desorption of surface impurities using coupled Monte Carlo-heat flow-Molecular Dynamics simulations. The research seeks to determine the temperature thresholds required to desorb different surface contaminants such as C2, O2, CO, and CO2. The findings indicate that carbon-based adsorbates on copper, chosen as an example anode material, can be removed at a relatively low surface temperature of 650K. In contrast, reactive species like oxygen remain highly stable due to their large cohesive energies. Additionally, Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations are conducted to highlight the advantages of using a platinum coating layer due to its significant resistance to oxidation. Next, the study explores a potential solution for reducing outgassing from a material's bulk through quasi-isentropic compression (QIC), supported by quantitative predictions from MD simulations. For QIC analyses, copper is again chosen as a sample anode but with hydrogen gaseous impurities embedded in the host. The findings suggest that applying a strong, short pressure ramp to one surface can lead to the accumulation of hydrogen atoms on the opposite face. This gathering of gaseous impurities could facilitate efficient surface treatment and cleaning. Moreover, it is demonstrated that upon compression, the surface becomes denser and more resistant to the subsequent diffusive uptake of hydrogen atoms from the environment, thereby creating a surface seal. Expanding on previous Quasi-Isentropic Compression (QIC) studies, molecular dynamics simulations-based laser-induced surface densification of copper anodes has been studied. The findings demonstrate that exposing the copper anode surface to a high-energy laser beam leading rapid temperature surge followed by rapid cooling alters the material's microstructure, leading to the formation and solidification of a dense surface layer. The computational model indicated a significant densification effect, with the material's density increasing by approximately 8.16% through this process. The densification would contribute to reductions in outgassing
Development of a Re-Deployable Radiator Demonstration Model for Deep Space Explorer
Get PDFYuki Akizuki, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), JapanKenichiro Sawada, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), JapanTomihiro Kinjo, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), JapanHiroyuki Ogawa, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), JapanToshiaki Okudaira, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), JapanHiroyuki Toyota, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), JapanKazutaka Nishiyama, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), JapanHiroshi Imamura, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), JapanTakeshi Takashima, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), JapanKan Matsumoto, WEL RESEARCH, JapanTakeshi Kuratomi, WEL RESEARCH, JapanKazuki Watanabe, WEL RESEARCH, JapanHosei Nagano, Nagoya University, JapanICES104: Advances in Thermal Control TechnologyThe 54th International Conference on Environmental Systems was held in Prague, Czechia, on 13 July 2025 through 17 July 2025.Next-generation deep space missions, especially small
spacecraft exploring outer planets, will require technology
that minimizes heater power consumption. To address this
need, we are developing a re-deployable radiator, referred
to as the Reversible Thermal Panel (RTP). This device
autonomously deploys or stows the radiator surface in
response to the temperature variations in the heat source.
The radiator surface remains stowed at low temperatures to
minimize the heat dissipation, and is deployed at high
temperatures to enhance heat dissipation. The proposed
design employs shape memory alloys (SMAs) as reversible
actuators to enable autonomous thermal control. The RTP
incorporates lightweight graphite sheets with high thermal
conductivity to improve specific heat dissipation. Japan's
deep space exploration demonstrator, DESTINY+, will
demonstrate future exploration technologies. The RTP is
planned to be mounted as one of the demonstration devices.
For the on-orbit demonstration using DESTINY+, we have
developed a Reversible Thermal Panel Demonstration Model
(RTP-DM) with a mass of approximately 1.2 kg and a heat
radiation capability exceeding 100 W. This paper presents
the design, fabrication, and testing results of the RTP-DM
Menstrual hygiene knowledge and practices among adolescent schoolgirls in flood-affected rural Bangladesh
Get PDFObjectives:
This study aimed to evaluate the level of knowledge and practices related to menstrual hygiene among adolescent schoolgirls in a flood-affected rural area of Bangladesh and identify the factors influencing their menstrual hygiene knowledge and practices.
Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted in northern Bangladesh between May 25 and June 1, 2023, involving 448 adolescent girls in the flood-affected region. Data was collected through a self-administered descriptive questionnaire. The collected data was entered and analyzed using SPSS 26.0 (IBM SPSS, Chicago, IL, USA). Adjusted odds ratios (AOR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were used to determine significant variables through multivariate binary logistic regression models.
Results:
The study found that more than half (69%) of the in-school adolescent girls had good knowledge about menstrual hygiene, while only one-fourth (28.6%) demonstrated good menstrual hygiene practices. Remarkably, only 1.6% of the girls disposed of their used sanitary napkins in dustbins. The results also indicated that girls aged 17 to 19 [AOR = 7.78, 95% CI: 1.83–32.99] and those from middle-class families [AOR = 0.51, 95% CI: 0.31–0.85] showed a significant positive association with menstrual hygiene knowledge. Additionally, the study revealed that the respondents’ mothers’ education level, particularly having secondary or higher education [AOR = 1.69, 95% CI: 1.04–2.77], was significantly associated with better menstrual hygiene practices.
Conclusions:
The findings underscore the low level of menstrual hygiene practices among the respondents, emphasizing the urgent need for action. This highlights the urgency of enhancing awareness about the significance of adopting good menstrual hygiene practices. Therefore, it is imperative to incorporate menstrual hygiene knowledge and practices into school curricula and to organize meetings and sessions with schoolgirls’ parents, stressing the importance of community support in addressing this issue
Architectural Design of SHARC as a Self-Sufficient, Permanently-Crewed Lunar Settlement
Get PDFIsabella Maria Kullmer-Ispas, Airbus Defence and Space GmbH, GermanyPolina Danielova, Bezalel Academy of Arts and Design, IsraelCarlos Quintana Gómez, Capgemini Engineering España, SpainAkshata Raut, Luleå University of Technology, SwedenICES502: Space ArchitectureThe 54th International Conference on Environmental Systems was held in Prague, Czechia, on 13 July 2025 through 17 July 2025.With steadily advancing programs such as Artemis, human
permanence on the lunar surface is an ensuing reality. The
2024 ISECG Global Exploration Roadmap estimates that humans
will operate and live on the moon's surface for
significantly longer durations. This will require the
development of habitats that can withstand the lunar
environment while protecting human health, safety and
well-being. During the Space Station Design Workshop (SSDW)
2024, it is with this goal in mind that the Space Habitat
for Advanced Resource Collection (SHARC) project, a lunar
base, was developed, aiming to transform a self-sufficient
life on the moon from a dream into reality.
The initial build-up phase of the SHARC base focuses on
autonomously deploying prefabricated tube aluminum modules
to serve as preliminary crew habitats, chosen for their
durability and flight reliability in the harsh lunar
environment. During the first settlement phase, the base
will house up to 25 astronauts in use-case independent,
in-situ-assembled Multipurpose Habitable Modules (MHMs),
reinforced with radiation-protecting regolith layers. The
architecture includes surface domes and underground levels
to enhance radiation shielding and allow for a safe and
sustainable expansion. For this, 3D-printed lunar regolith
shells manufactured around aluminum structures are
envisioned, creating the basic building blocks for
additional habitats, tunnels, and underground facilities.
In advanced stages of the mission, metal alloys would be
produced directly on the moon through in-situ resource
utilization (ISRU), increasing self-sufficiency and
boosting crew capacity to 75 astronauts.
The SHARC MHMs harbor all necessary facilities constituting
a self-sufficient lunar settlement, emphasizing crew
safety, efficiency, and comfort. The integral “Micro
Housing” concept maximizes crew productivity and
physio-psychological health, enabling long-term habitation,
commercialization, and deep-space exploration. Leveraging
robust construction strategies and a use-case-focused
modular architecture, SHARC aims for self-sufficiency,
laying the ground for a resilient, scalable, and
Earth-independent lunar outpost
Lunar Regolith Simulants for Space Agriculture: State of the Art and Gaps in Research & Industry
Get PDFÁlvaro Ropero, The Spring Institute for Forests on the Moon, SpainSophia Guermi, The Spring Institute for Forests on the Moon, FranceGregory Navarro, Centre National d’Etudes Spatiales (CNES), FranceICES510: Planetary and Spacecraft Dust Properties and
Mitigation TechnologiesThe 54th International Conference on Environmental Systems was held in Prague, Czechia, on 13 July 2025 through 17 July 2025.Lunar regolith simulants play a crucial role in advancing
research and development for a sustainable human presence
on the Moon on different fronts, such as space agriculture.
This paper presents a review of the current
state-of-the-art in lunar regolith simulants for
regolith-based agriculture, with a particular focus on
identifying bioremediation methods. Additionally, we
identify commercial entities involved in their development
and production of simulants, as well as the end users
conducting regolith-based agriculture experiments. This
paper pursues a gap analysis of biological, technological,
financial and logistical gaps in both regolith simulants
production field and the users it impacts. Finally, it
highlights opportunities to strengthen the alignment
between simulant production and the needs of the lunar
agricultural research community. This review serves as a
resource for fostering collaboration and addressing
emerging challenges in lunar surface technology development
Characterization of MLI Thermal Performance Using Optical Fibers as Temperature Sensor
Get PDFAndrea Ballario, Aviotec Srl, ItalyRiccardo Barresi, Aviotec Srl, ItalyAndrea Rizzi, Aviotec Srl, ItalyPaolo Polimeni, Aviotec Srl, ItalyICES203: Thermal TestingThe 54th International Conference on Environmental Systems was held in Prague, Czechia, on 13 July 2025 through 17 July 2025.CaraTERM is a research project conducted by Aviotec with
the support of Turin Polytechnic, aimed to the
Characterization of Multi-Layer Insulation (MLI) for Space
application. The project foresees the validation, in the
frame of Space application, of an innovative
instrumentation for MLI temperature measurement during
on-ground Thermal Vacuum tests, in function of the thermal
expansion of optic fiber sensors, with the aim of improving
the performance characterization with respect to the
traditional thermocouples, thanks to the sensors accuracy
and the reduced disturbance from thermal conductivity and
electromagnetic interferences.
The MLI thermal behavior is typically described by a
parameter called “Effective Emissivity” used to compute the
overall heat flux going through all components of a MLI
blanket. The analytic characterization of this parameter is
difficult to achieve due to the large number of factors
involved. These complications lead to the need to perform a
series of thermal performance tests in order to estimate
the effective emissivity of MLI.
The operative phase of the CaraTERM project consists in a
series of MLI Thermal Performance Tests, inside Thermal
Vacuum chambers equipped with the innovative Fiber Optic
instrumentation, for the acquisition of a catalog of
thermal performance of MLI in different configurations.
The expected result is an improvement of the
measured/calculated thermal performance with respect to
traditional thermocouples, considering the lower
disturbance introduced in the temperature measurement. A
large number of thermocouples leads to more reliable, but
less accurate measures. This phenomenon will be reduced
with the use of optic fiber sensors.
The results of the test campaign will be used to perform a
comparison between the different MLI configurations tested.
Considering the relevance of the mass factor in a Space
mission, a significant part will be the comparison of
different MLI layups, in terms of number of layers and in
typology of materials
Increasing Space Participation: Reviewing Two Years of Public Engagement within The Spring Institute for Forests on the Moon
Get PDFNoémie Mazaré, The Spring Institute for Forests on the Moon, FranceLouise Fleischer, The Spring Institute for Forests on the Moon, FranceCecilia Mourey, The Spring Institute for Forests on the Moon, FranceLydie Irababarira, The Spring Institute for Forests on the Moon, RwandaBrandon Kabagambe, The Spring Institute for Forests on the Moon, RwandaICES307: Collaboration, Education Outreach, and Public
EngagementThe 54th International Conference on Environmental Systems was held in Prague, Czechia, on 13 July 2025 through 17 July 2025.The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
stress the importance of making space accessible to all,
yet significant barriers remain, particularly for
non-spacefaring nations and underrepresented disciplines.
The Spring Institute for Forests on the Moon has set
targets to reach these communities through educational
outreach, focusing on non-spacefaring countries and
non-engineering disciplines. This is primarily achieved
through yearly hackathons held across an expanding number
of continental regions. This study seeks to answer the
question: How effective are Spring’s outreach initiatives
in engaging underrepresented communities in space science?
To assess this, we conducted a data analysis of participant
demographics, retention rates, and engagement across our
hackathon events over the past two years. Our findings
indicate a growing diversity in participants, with
increased representation from non-spacefaring nations and
various non-engineering fields. However, despite these
gains, challenges persist in scientific collaboration per
se. We identified cultural barriers and knowledge gaps as
key obstacles to broadening participation in space-related
initiatives. In response, we present in this paper new
initiatives to bridge these gaps including a moving museum
to offer general space and ecology knowledge closer to
targeted communities and a citizen science effort to engage
global audiences in meaningful scientific contributions.
These initiatives, still in their early stages are aimed at
strengthening future outreach efforts and fostering more
inclusive engagement in space exploration
On-Orbit Thermal Performance of NASA's Ocean Color Instrument
Get PDFDeepak Patel, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), United StatesWes Ousley, Vertex Aerospace LLC, United StatesICES101: Spacecraft and Instrument Thermal SystemsThe 54th International Conference on Environmental Systems was held in Prague, Czechia, on 13 July 2025 through 17 July 2025.NASA’s Plankton, Aerosol, Cloud, ocean Ecosystem (PACE)
mission, launched 2/6/24, will provide data continuity for
the ocean color, aerosol and cloud measurements acquired by
NASA’s on-orbit Earth Science observatories since the
1990s. The PACE Ocean Color Instrument (OCI) is an optical
spectrometer developed for hyper-spectral measurements in
the ultraviolet-to-near-infrared band between 340 nm and
2260 nm. OCI provides greater insight and resolution than
its predecessors, requiring a more complex thermal control
approach to address high heat dissipations, stringent
temperature stabilities, and thermal zones that range in
temperatures from +30C to –70C. The Ultra-Violet to Near
Infra-red (UVNIR) comprises two separate detectors
independently controlled to -35C via propylene charged Loop
Heat Pipes (LHP). The Short-Wave Infrared (SWIR) subsystem
detectors are temperature controlled to –70C through
passive radiators and thermal straps while maintaining
thermal isolation from its relatively-warm (-20C)
electronics. The optical element has a mirror which spins
at 6Hz to provide a wide field of view for 2-day Earth
coverage and are temperature controlled between 15C and
20C. In addition, the OCI tilts ±20° twice per orbit to
decrease glint, increasing orbital environmental variation.
This paper focuses on on-orbit thermal performance as
compared to flight predictions, including survival heater
performance, initial power-on, Loop Heat Pipe operations,
nominal science collection, and safe hold operations.
Thermal responses to the unanticipated attitude changes
that occurred during spacecraft commissioning are also
evaluated