Volatile organic compounds ( VOCs ) inevitably accumulate in enclosed habitats such as the International Space Station and the Crew Exploration Vehicle ( CEV ) as a result of human metabolism , material off - gassing , and leaking equipment . Some VOCs can negatively affect the quality of the crew 's life , health , and performance ; and consequently , the success of the mission . Air quality must be closely monitored to ensure a safe living and working environment . Currently , there is no reliable air quality monitoring system that meets NASA 's stringent requirements for power , mass , volume , or performance . The ultimate objective of the project -- the development of a Real - Time , Miniaturized , Autonomous Total Risk Indicator System ( RT.MATRIX).is to provide a portable , dual - function sensing system that simultaneously determines total organic carbon ( TOC ) and individual contaminants in air streams .