Recycling Washroom in Shenzhou-7
The first space walk by Chinese astronauts occurred during the flight of Shenzhou-7, necessitating a longer stay in space. The extended flight meant an onboard washroom became a necessity. The tiny washroom was tailored to the astronaut’s stature, and included a toilet and urinal, which can be folded to save room. The washroom was also able to separate urine from excrement. The former was recycled to produce drinking water, while the latter was biologically disposed of through drying and pulverization, before being finally cast into space. |