Plumbing in Space

Have you ever wondered about how to use a toilet in space? Without gravity, things have the potential to get pretty messy. Astronauts use straps, clamps, and suction hoses in order to do their business. In addition to keeping things clean, their system allows them to conserve water, an expensive resource in space.

In space, urine, wastewater, sweat, and even breath vapor must be recycled and reused in order to dramatically cut down on waste. It costs approximately $49,800 to send just one gallon of water into space, so it’s very important to reuse every drop.

In this infographic, EmergencyPlumber.uk.com explores water conservation in space as well as the ways in which astronauts help to cut down on water usage.