Life support system
From Memory Alpha, the free Star Trek reference.
- For the Star Trek: Deep Space Nine episode of the same name, see "Life Support".
Life support systems are the most crucial aboard any space vehicle. They typically include artificial gravity, and atmospheric controls. Failure of these systems prompts a computer safeguard to order the evacuation of the starship in question. (VOY: "The Haunting of Deck Twelve") Aboard some vessels, the imminent failure of the life support system constitutes a blue alert situation. (TNG: "Brothers")
Life-support systems and pressure domes can be used to make a class K planet more hospitable for Humans. (TOS: "I, Mudd") A key component in 23rd century life support systems was the mineral topaline. (TOS: "Friday's Child")
In the distress call from a Romulan warbird in 2369 which the USS Enterprise-D received, the status of the Romulan ship was included. Their life support systems are failing. (TNG: "Timescape")
Before its atmospheric dome was added, Internment Camp 371 relied on life support systems in its walls to provide atmosphere. Enabran Tain used the old systems to send a message to Elim Garak in 2373. (DS9: "In Purgatory's Shadow", "By Inferno's Light", "Inquisition")
After leaving Empok Nor, the Cardassians deactivated its life support systems. (DS9: "Empok Nor")
Hirogen body armor has internal life support and it can protect a Hirogen hunter while seeking prey in most hostile environments, including the surface of a collapsed star. (VOY: "Prey")
A Federation Intrepid-class starship has tricyclic life support systems. (VOY: "Drone")
It appears that even when life support systems are disabled it is still possible to maintain life aboard a starship for a limited period of time using the oxygen that is already in the atmosphere. (ENT: "Exile")
