Researchers in Beijing have unveiled a compact washing machine designed for use in outer space, aiming to help astronauts clean their clothes without relying on large amounts of water or detergent.
Developed by the China Astronaut Research and Training Centre, the cube-shaped device is slightly larger than a carry-on suitcase and weighs 12 kilograms, the South China Morning Post reports. It uses ultrasonic atomisation to deliver 400 millilitres of water per cycle as a fine mist, which can clean up to 800 grams of clothing in a 30-minute cycle. Ultraviolet-generated ozone sterilises garments for up to five wears.
Writing in the Chinese Journal of Space Science, the team said the system could cut the weight of clothing needed for missions to the Tiangong space station and future lunar or Martian bases by more than 60 percent. According to the paper, a 15-year mission with a three-person crew currently requires more than 3,380 kilograms of clothing.
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The design also helps reduce common issues in low-gravity environments, like pooling liquids and dealing with wastewater.
Astronauts currently wear garments until they start smelling (sweat is the major culprit), then dispose of them in cargo capsules that burn up in Earth’s atmosphere. Water scarcity on spacecraft, where every drop is recycled and prioritised for drinking and hygiene, has made in-orbit laundry a major logistical challenge.
The researchers said they planned to build a working prototype and further improve efficiency by increasing load capacity and reducing water use, with the aim of supporting longer missions with limited resupply.
