Scientists develop water-free 'laundry gun' to sterilise astronaut clothing

Scientists have unveiled a novel technology designed to sanitise clothing worn by astronauts during extended space missions, eliminating the need for water in the cleaning process. The device, colloquially termed a 'laundry gun', uses an alternative sterilisation method to neutralise microbes that accumulate on spacesuits and garments, a persistent concern for crews living in the confined environment of spacecraft.

The development addresses a fundamental constraint of space travel: the scarcity of water and the difficulty of managing waste in microgravity conditions. Traditional laundry methods are impractical in orbit, making the preservation of clothing hygiene and the prevention of microbial growth aboard spacecraft a significant operational challenge. The new technology offers a solution that reduces resource consumption while maintaining health standards for crew members.

The innovation has potential applications beyond space exploration, researchers suggest. Water-conserving sterilisation methods could benefit industries and regions where water scarcity is a concern, from healthcare facilities to areas facing drought conditions. Scientists continue to refine the technology to ensure its effectiveness across various fabric types and microbial strains encountered in space environments.

The device represents part of broader efforts by space agencies and research institutions to develop sustainable technologies for long-duration missions, including potential future human expeditions to the Moon and Mars. As space exploration programmes extend their ambitions, innovations that maximise resource efficiency remain critical to mission success and crew welfare.