Current CELSS research is focused primarily on utilizing solar energy in imitation of the Earth's ecosystem. Alternative energy sources are either not sustainable for a closed system (chemical and nuclear require raw material input and produce waste), or are not portable (wind, tidal, geothermal).
Solar energy (insolation) varies depending on location and on planetary cycles (day/night, seasons, weather). Regardless of cycles, the internal CELSS environment must remain in the range of the triple point of water. For an air pressure of 101 kPA (1 atm), this is between about 273 and 373K.
In order to maintain a stable temperature range over the course of these cycles, the insolation may need to be limited, stored, or even dumped. Of these options, storage is the preferred method, but storage capacity is a matter of CELSS size, and therefore economics.
Limiting Energy Influx
Energy Storage
Energy Loss
Solar energy (insolation) varies depending on location and on planetary cycles (day/night, seasons, weather). Regardless of cycles, the internal CELSS environment must remain in the range of the triple point of water. For an air pressure of 101 kPA (1 atm), this is between about 273 and 373K.
In order to maintain a stable temperature range over the course of these cycles, the insolation may need to be limited, stored, or even dumped. Of these options, storage is the preferred method, but storage capacity is a matter of CELSS size, and therefore economics.
Limiting Energy Influx
Energy Storage
Energy Loss