Oxygen Delivery Devices in Space and on Other Planets: Modifications and Challenges

Oxygen therapy is essential for sustaining life in environments beyond Earth, such as space stations or other planetary surfaces, where the atmosphere is either insufficient or non-existent. Standard oxygen delivery devices—such as nasal cannulas, face masks, and high-flow systems—require extensive modifications to function effectively under altered conditions of gravity, atmospheric pressure, and temperature. This paper explores the challenges faced in delivering oxygen in space and on other planets, addressing specific issues like inconsistent gas flow in microgravity, oxygen leakage in low-pressure environments, and condensation problems in humidifiers. Modifications to these devices, such as airtight seals, CO₂ scrubbers, micro-pumps for steady flow, and advanced pressure regulators, are discussed. The study also highlights the need for specialized storage solutions, including cryogenic systems and concentrators, to reduce payload weight during space missions. Physics principles, such as Boyle’s law and microgravity’s impact on fluid dynamics, are critical considerations in designing these systems. This paper aims to provide a framework for adapting oxygen delivery technologies to extraterrestrial environments, ensuring the safety and well-being of astronauts and explorers during long-term missions.