The lithium hydroxide canister was designed as a replaceable filter for the command module's environmental control unit (ECU). The ECU provided Cooling, water and breathable oxygen for the astronauts’ suits and cabin. Two canisters were present in the system at all times and were alternately replaced, one every twelve hours. To maintain a safe pure-oxygen environment, the canisters contained lithium hydroxide (LiOH) and charcoal and were covered by a felt cloth barrier. The LiOH within the canister absorbed carbon dioxide, the charcoal eliminated odors, and the felt trapped particles and debris.
This canister was used in July 1969 during the historic first manned lunar landing mission, Apollo 11. It was transferred to the Smithsonian in 1970 along with the recovered contents of the Command Module.
Display Status
This object is on display in Destination Moon at the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC.
Object Details
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
SPACECRAFT-Crewed-Life Support
Manufacturer
Airesearch
Dimensions
3-D: 18.4 × 18.4 × 13.3cm (7 1/4 × 7 1/4 × 5 1/4 in.)
Materials
Unidentified Metal
Organic Fiber Material
Paint
Ink
Inventory Number
A19980055000
Credit Line
Transferred from NASA
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.