ISS ECLSS

The Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS, EE-kliss) is a critical component of the International Space Station (ISS), responsible for maintaining a safe and habitable environment for crew members, similar to that of Earth, with an air pressure equivalent to sea level. Maintaining an Earth-like atmosphere enhances crew comfort and safety, and is significantly safer than a pure oxygen environment. The various subsystems of the ISS ECLSS regulate atmospheric pressure, control temperature and humidity, remove carbon dioxide, manage oxygen and nitrogen levels, provide ventilation, treat sewage, and generate potable water even in space. The system was jointly designed and tested by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center, UTC Aerospace Systems, Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and Honeywell. In addition to its primary functions, the ECLSS serves as a proof of concept for future, more advanced life support systems intended for deep space missions.