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Applications of life support systems for space missions to date have been limited to the use of relatively simple processes and, consequently, there has been minimal utilization of process control within those systems. Furthermore, the maturation of the sensor technology required for these applications has not tracked that of other system components. Future integrated life support systems for long duration missions should be expected to have a substantially higher level of complexity, with operational demands similar to those of advanced chemical plants and attendant requirements for sophisticated process-control and sensor technologies to achieve safety and reliability objectives. Early integration of state-of-the-art control systems and related components into the methodology is necessary for optimum interfacing effectiveness during design and development of these new systems, and to ensure parallel growth during operational life cycles.

This paper summarizes results from the first NASA Life Support Systems Analysis Workshop sponsored by the Office of Aeronautics and Space Technology on June 24-27, 1991, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and provides a brief overview of the second workshop held May 12-14, 1992. The objectives of the workshops were to: 1) encourage communication in life support systems analysis among NASA, the aerospace industry, universities, and the chemical processing industry; 2) provide access and exposure to current NASA life support systems analysis efforts; 3) establish and provide results of the workshop sessions to NASA and the participants regarding future activities and directions for the development of life support systems analysis capabilities. The participants included representatives from NASA Headquarters and field centers, major aerospace companies, aerospace R&D and manufacturing companies, chemical processing companies, and universities.