The Lunar Loo Contest: NASA Wants Help Building Toilet For Astronauts

NASA wants YOU to help them design a toilet for astronauts in space as part of their Lunar Loo Contest:

A newly launched lunar loo challenge is asking those who are interested to redesign a toilet for the Moon that works in both lunar gravity and microgravity. NASA expects to return humans to the celestial orb in 2024 as part of the Artemis program

Working with the challenge platform HeroX, NASA is on the hunt for the best lunar, ahem, throne. A $35,000 prize awaits for the top three technical designs. Winners also get to consult with NASA engineers about their designs. NASA’s Human Landing System (HLS) program wants to improve upon the space bathroom options already used at the International Space Station with a next-gen design that's smaller and more efficient. The toilets will be used on lunar landers.

The challenge isn't just replicating a terrestrial toilet; it also requires careful consideration of how and where the moon toilet will be used. The challenge guidelines list not only size and weight requirements, but decibel limits and ease of cleaning. It has to work for both men and women, and handle "simultaneous urination and defecation." The bathroom system also needs to be prepared for what NASA calls a diarrhea "event."

OMG. Clearly this is for people way smarter than me. You can get more info HERE if you're into this.


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