For the first time ever, NASA has successfully tested a brand new waste disposal technology aboard the International Space Satellite (ISS) developed by Texas-based space technology company Nanoracks. The test has demonstrated an efficient and sustainable model for removing waste from the ISS and it rather turn out to be a critical new utility function for all future space stations.

HIGHLIGHTS
NASA has successfully tested a brand new waste disposal technology
ISS astronauts collect trash and later store it on the space satellite for months
The trash contained container can contain around 78 kilograms of trash

Generally, ISS astronauts have to collect trash and later store it on the space satellite for months waiting for the Cygnus cargo vehicle to get arrive at the station. Cygnus is considered to be the ‘disposable’ spacecraft which is designed to transport the supplies to the space station. Once they are completed with its primary mission, astronaut fills it with the luggage of trash and releases it to the spacecraft. After this, the waste get de-orbit and is totally burned up while re-entering into Earth’s atmosphere.

Nanopracks have developed a new concept which uses a specially designed waste container contained that is mounted within the Bishop Airlock. Well, crew members can once fill it up with around 270 kilograms of waste. After which the container is free and like the Cygnus technique, it totally burns up while its re-entry into Earth’s atmosphere. The concept is that this method is efficient and sustainable since astronauts don't have to look forward for the cargo spacecraft to arrive to dispose of waste.

During the initial test, the container contained around 78 kilograms of trash which includes foam, packing materials, cargo transfer luggage, dirty crew clothing, hygiene product and used office supplies.

Nanoracks CEO Amela Wilson, in a company press statement has mentioned that “This test which is successful not only demonstrates the future of waste removal for space stations, but also highlights our ability to leverage the ISS as an commercial technology testbed. It provides crucial insights into the way it can prepare for the upcoming phases of commercial LEO destinations. Thanks to NASA and the ISS Program for the continuing support, and we would look forward to continuing this collaboration.”

Cooper Read, Bishop Airlock program manager at Nanoracks, in the press statement has added that “Waste collection in space has been a long-standing, but yet not as publicly discussed, challenge aboard the ISS. Four astronauts are allowed to generate up to 2,500 Kg of trash annually, or about two trash cans per week. As we move into a time with additional people living and working in space, this can be one of the crucial functions just like it is for everyone at home.”

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