Life support systems for the prospective new generation manned transport spacecraft (PTK NP) have been completed and are ready for interdepartmental testing. This was reported by NIIkhimmash, which developed the equipment for the future Russian spacecraft that will form the basis of the manned lunar program.
The system complex includes a spacecraft toilet for receiving urine during flight and a unit for supplying and heating water for preparing food in packages. In terms of their purpose, these devices are similar to the systems installed on the International Space Station, but are made in a simpler and lighter configuration, adapted to the conditions of interplanetary missions.
According to Alexander Tsygankov, General Director of NIIkhimmash, the equipment is fully ready and is awaiting the start of testing of the spacecraft itself. He emphasized that, if necessary, the systems can be adapted for other manned spacecraft, which makes the development universal and technologically flexible.
The PTK NP is being created to deliver crews and cargo to orbital stations, as well as to carry out missions as part of the Russian lunar program. The new spacecraft should replace the Soyuz series and provide longer and more autonomous flights: up to 30 days in autonomous mode and up to six months as part of an orbital station. As part of the lunar station, the spacecraft will be able to operate for up to 180 days, and in flight to the Moon — up to 10 days.
