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Two critical sets of variables that must be monitored in life support systems for extended manned space exploration missions are: oxygen and trace gas concentrations in crew air supply and “respiratory” gasses (e.g. O2 and H2O vapor) in hydroponic or other regenerative food and oxygen producing units. This paper describes new results in the development of fiber optic sensors targeted at precisely these applications. In particular, we present new data on the performance (sensitivity, accuracy, and precision) of a moisture-insensitive oxygen optrode based on a fluorescent indicator immobilized in a permeable polymer, on a novel fiber optic humidity sensor, and on a miniature nitrogen dioxide optrode.

Life support systems for manned exploration missions are becoming increasingly complex. In next-generation manned space exploration, closed-loop control of all life support systems must be established, particularly for missions requiring extended human occupation of space or the lunar or martian surface. To accomplish this control, sensors must be developed that are capable of monitoring and feeding back information on the concentrations of a number of chemical and biochemical substances. Two critical sets of variables that must be monitored are: oxygen concentration and flow in crew air supply (both in capsules and in suits and masks); carbon dioxide, oxygen, and moisture content in hydroponic or other food- and oxygen-producing life support systems.