Contaminant
In space and astronautical engineering, a contaminant refers to any substance or particle that is present in an environment where it is not intended to be, and which may have harmful effects on equipment, materials, or living organisms. Contaminants can come from a variety of sources, including human activity, natural processes, or the space environment itself. Examples of common contaminants in space include dust, outgassing from materials, and microbial growth. Contamination control is a critical aspect of space and astronautical engineering, as it can affect the performance and longevity of spacecraft, habitats, and scientific instruments, as well as the health and safety of astronauts. Effective contamination control measures include careful selection and testing of materials, rigorous cleaning and sterilization procedures, and monitoring and mitigation of contamination sources.
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