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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 oxygen 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, made by Airesearch, was flown on the final Apollo lunar landing mission (Apollo 17) and was transferred to the Smithsonian in July 1973.

 Display Status

This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Object Details
Country of Origin United States of America Type EQUIPMENT-Miscellaneous Manufacturer Airesearch Mfg. Co.
 Dimensions 3-D: 18.7 x 13.7 x 18.7cm (7 3/8 x 5 3/8 x 7 3/8 in.)
 Materials Aluminum, synthetic fabric, paint, adhesive decal, steel, metal wire mesh
 Inventory Number A19790758000 Credit Line Transferred from the NASA- Johnson Space Center Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use. Deep dives Apollo Astronaut Life