Composting
Composting is the process of breaking down organic waste materials into a nutrient-rich soil amendment. In space and astronautical engineering context, composting is a sustainable method for managing waste on long-duration space missions. Composting can be done using different methods such as aerobic and anaerobic composting. Aerobic composting requires oxygen and involves mixing organic waste with bulking agents such as wood chips and turning the pile regularly to provide oxygen. Anaerobic composting, on the other hand, does not require oxygen and involves sealing the organic waste in an airtight container. Composting in space can help reduce the amount of waste that needs to be stored or sent back to Earth, and can provide a source of fresh food for astronauts through the growth of plants in the compost.
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