Man-Made Closed Ecological Systems: Scientific and Applied Significance, and Prospects for International Collaboration

Artificial closed ecological systems (CES) may be used as a tool for experimental investigation of the matter circulation processes and their stability, The creation of space life systems is a strong stimulus for CES studies. Truly functioning CES exist: “Biosphere-2” (USA) and “Bios-3” (Russia). Taking into account the general importance of the problem for mankind, and the high cost of equipment, it is expedient to organize a collective use of installations, with the help of the International CES Research Center, which has the status of an open laboratory. Such an initiative was started in Krasnoyarsk in April 1991. The maximum effect of international collaboration may be achieved through the framework of a long-term experiment on human life support, with an international crew and research team.