Doing Laundry in Space to Be Augmented by Microwaves

A few years from now, astronauts doing laundry in space could find their clothes entirely dry by the time they take them out of the washing machine. This will become possible through the use of microwaves, instead of tumble dryers, experts at the UMPQUA Research Company say.

According to Space, all astronauts will have to do is put their clothes inside the washing machine, and then return later on to reclaim them, cleaned and dried. The technology is currently just being developed, but it could make its way to the International Space Station (ISS).

By adopting such a device, astronauts would save both water and energy, and avoid the need to carry washing machines, or spare clothes, with them to orbit. At this time, ISS residents rely on constant resupplies to keep their clothes fresh and clean.

However, during longer space missions, such as those planned for the Moon and Mars, no one will have the luxury, so the new announcement comes at a very good time.