Plasma-Biomimetic Life Support Systems for Extraterrestrial Habitats
Abstract
Traditional life support systems rely on biochemical processes optimized for Earth-like conditions. However, extraterrestrial environments demand alternative biophysical mechanisms. This research introduces \textit{plasma-biomimetic life support systems}, inspired by extremophilic adaptations, to generate and regulate essential life-sustaining elements in space habitats. By leveraging \textit{low-temperature plasma physics}, we propose a self-sustaining ecosystem capable of artificial photosynthesis, atmospheric regulation, and waste processing. The study explores \textit{plasma-assisted oxygen and nitrogen fixation, carbon recycling, and microbial survivability} under simulated space conditions. Plasma reactions facilitate the conversion of atmospheric gases into bioavailable nutrients, enabling efficient closed-loop resource utilization. The mathematical formulation of plasma-assisted fixation can be expressed as: \begin{equation} R_{fix} = k P(T, E) C \end{equation} where $R_{fix}$ represents the fixation rate, $k$ is the reaction coefficient, $P(T, E)$ accounts for temperature and energy dependencies, and $C$ is the reactant concentration. Additionally, plasma-induced photolysis enhances carbon dioxide recycling: \begin{equation} CO_2 + e^- \rightarrow CO + O^- \end{equation} This mechanism supports atmospheric stability and biomass cultivation in extraterrestrial settings. Results indicate enhanced efficiency in sustaining closed-loop habitats with minimal reliance on Earth-based resources. Our findings provide a foundation for developing self-sufficient extraterrestrial colonies, improving long-term mission sustainability and deep-space exploration prospects.