iss069e088358 (9/14/2023) --- Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Satoshi Furukawa is seen processing samples from the JEM Water Recovery System (JWRS) in the KIBO module aboard the International Space Station (ISS). The JWRS demonstrates that potable water can be generated from urine. In the past, urine and wastewater were collected and stored, or vented overboard. However, for long-term space missions, water supply could become a limiting factor. Demonstrating the function of this water recovery system on orbit contributes to updating the Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS) to support astronauts on the space station and future exploration missions.
Date September 14, 2023