How Scientists Create Oxygen for Astronauts on Prolonged Space Missions

Creating oxygen is crucial for prolonged space missions. Learn about the various technologies scientists use to generate oxygen in this inhospitable environment.

By Conor Feehly
Aug 9, 2023 3:00 PM
Astronauts on the moon
Illustration of NASA astronauts on the lunar South Pole. (Credit: NASA)

Newsletter

Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news
 

Living on the same planet that we evolved on, it can be easy to take things for granted. We have an abundance of fuel and fresh water, plants and animals for food, and an atmosphere with plenty of oxygen.

Yet we also have plans to send people off-world. In the coming decades, humans will set out to explore our solar system in greater detail than ever before; we have plans to erect a base on the moon through NASA’s Artemis mission, and even send the first people to Mars.

Is There Oxygen in Space?

No, there is no oxygen in space. Therefore, scientists and engineers must figure out how to best provide crucial resources to the people who first set foot on these foreign worlds.

0 free articles left
Want More? Get unlimited access for as low as $1.99/month

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

0 free articlesSubscribe
Discover Magazine Logo
Want more?

Keep reading for as low as $1.99!

Subscribe

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

Stay Curious

Sign up for our weekly newsletter and unlock one more article for free.

 

View our Privacy Policy


Want more?
Keep reading for as low as $1.99!


Log In or Register

Already a subscriber?
Find my Subscription

More From Discover
Recommendations From Our Store
Shop Now
Stay Curious
Join
Our List

Sign up for our weekly science updates.

 
Subscribe
To The Magazine

Save up to 40% off the cover price when you subscribe to Discover magazine.

Copyright © 2023 Kalmbach Media Co.