ITALIAN-ELECTRONIC NOSE FOR SPACE EXPLORATION (I-ENOS)
Research Area: Air, Water and Surface Monitoring
Expedition(s): 27 and 28
Principal Investigator(s): ● Arnaldo D’Amico, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
● Corrado Di Natale, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome,
Italy
● Eugenio Martinelli, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome,
Italy
RESEARCH OBJECTIVES
Italian-Electronic NOse for Space
exploration (I-ENOS) is a study
involving air quality monitoring and
the search for possible anomalies in
the internal in-orbit atmosphere
utilizing a network of 3 sensorial I-
ENOS units.
EARTH BENEFITS
Earth-based applications include
the detection of dangerous gases
emitted from substances like
pesticides, paints, glues, and other
hazardous building materials.
SPACE BENEFITS
The ability to monitor the International Space Station (ISS) air quality provides the opportunity
to improve the ISS cabin air conditions and to identify potential real-time anomalies that may
occur in the ISS air quality.
RESULTS
The I-ENOSE experiment was performed on ISS in May 2011. No anomalies in air quality were
observed. However, analysis of I-ENOSE data showed that responses of the I-ENOSE sensors
could be correlated to certain crew activities performed in close proximity to the sensors.
Analysis of data are complete and results are pending publication.
PUBLICATION(S)
Martinelli E, Pennazza G, Sintonico M, et al. Chemical drift counteraction based on pulsed
measurements strategy. 12th International Meeting on Chemical Sensors, Columbus, OH; July
13-16, 2008.
View of an I-ENOS bag and 3 I-ENOS sensors mounted to the
Combustion Integrated Rack (CIR) in the US Laboratory/Destiny.