MELiSSA

The acronym MELiSSA means 'Micro-Ecological Life Support System Alternative' and is a development program of a microbiological and horticultural plant based ecosystem. The system is planned to be used for regenerative life support systems for long-term space missions to lunar bases or flights to Mars.

The basis of MELiSSA is the treatment, recovery and recycling of edible biomass, water and oxygen from human waste and carbon dioxide. The scale and advanced stage of technologies that have been developed to overcome the numerous technical challenges is substantial. Many of these solutions directly impact and present solutions to environmental issues on earth. Examples include: optimized water treatment systems, sewage systems, recycling of waste, controlled crop growth, etc.

The MELiSSA Project is managed by the ESA ESTEC Thermal and Environmental Control Section (TEC-MCT). The project is based on a collaborative development program with nine partners and a number of supporting sub-contractors. The project continues to be funded by ESA, where ESA’s annual contribution to the program has been in excess of €7.0 Million over the past 15 years.

Currently, there are several technologies featured and their applications can be classified into:

• Water Recycling Technology (grey, yellow and black water)
• Waste and Fiber Degradation Technology
• Air Regeneration Technology
• Biological Sensory Technology

The compilation of MELiSSA technologies remains a work in progress. As research and development continues, more technologies will become available also for commercial application.

Generally speaking all MELISSA technologies are considered to be in the cleantech area and can be applied for instance in water treatment plants, urine treatment units, lifestock farms (manure processing) and airplanes.

Technology transfer and valorization activities are in the hands of one of the MELiSSA members IPStar BV.^{[clarification needed]}

External links

• MELiSSA Homepage
• IPStar homepage