A space colonys oxygen generator recycles 85% of air each hour. If the system starts with 10,000 liters of oxygen, how much fresh oxygen must be added after 2 hours to restore it to 10,000 liters, assuming no consumption?

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 17:29:27 +0000

**How a Space Colony’s Oxygen System Regains Fresh Air After Two Hours of 85% Recycling** As space exploration accelerates and sustainable living models for off-Earth habitats grow more pressing, systems like those found in space colonies have become compelling topics. One key process in these closed-loop environments is air recycling—where oxygen generators work to maintain breathable atmosphere levels. When a unit recycles 85% of the air each hour, questions arise about how much fresh oxygen must be added over time to restore oxygen levels, especially when starting from 10,000 liters. This isn’t just theoretical—it’s relevant as propulsion and life-support technologies advance for Mars missions and lunar bases. ## The Science Behind Air Recycling in Lunar or Mars Habitats Space colonies rely on attached life support systems that capture and process air continuously. Each hour, an 85% recycling efficiency means 85% of the existing air is purified and reused—effectively reducing oxidative loss by 15%. This doesn’t mean oxygen disappears; instead, trace gases accumulate slightly, and small amounts degrade over time due to systems’ inefficiencies or human activity. Assuming no oxygen is consumed by the crew or lost through seepage, the challenge becomes balancing regeneration and replenishment to sustain 10,000 liters of fresh air.