The LunaRecycle Challenge: NASA Challenges the Public to Develop Recycling Projects in Space

NASA has launched the LunaRecycle Challenge, a competition that aims to find solutions to recycling solid waste in space. The long-term objective of the two-track, two-phase competition is to improve the longevity and sustainability of long-term lunar missions.

Not only is NASA challenging private companies to bring forward innovative ideas for aerospace recycling, but it promises to provide $3 million worth of prizes for successful ideas.

 

Why Is NASA Pushing For Solutions to Waste Disposal In Space? 

 

The motivation behind finding solutions for waste disposal in space is fueled by NASA’s intention to find ways to make long-term space exploration possible.

It’s becoming increasingly clear that human space missions are most likely to become a very real part of our future, and in order for that to be plausible, it’s going to be necessary to find a solution to the question of how solid waste can be managed and disposed of in space.

That is, how waste be stored, processed and even recycled in a space environment without having to send it back to Earth?

We’re already facing serious challenges in terms of waste management on Earth, so needing to send more waste back here from outer space isn’t a long-term solution.

And, finding a solution to waste disposal in space isn’t just something that needs to be done for the purpose of current space exploration. For those who are developing ways for humans to live in space at some point in the future, no matter how plausible that may be, waste disposal is a problem that needs a solution.

 

 

All About the LunaRecycle Challenge

 

The LunaRecycle Challenge is part of NASA’s continued efforts toward finding solutions for long-duration human space travel, especially in terms of building a sustained human presence on the moon via its Artemis missions.

Previously, NASA has launched projects focusing on reducing the mass and volume of trash in space, the LunaRecycle Challenge is more focused on creating innovative technologies that will help recycle waste into products that are not only reusable but actually necessary for off-planet science and exploration activities.

The challenge provides an incentive to the public to design and develop recycling solutions that are energy-efficient, low-mass and low-impact for long-term lunar missions. The idea is for NASA to appeal to the creativity and ingenuity of the public and private sectors, broadening the horizons of research in space travel and waste reduction technology.

 

The Two Tracks of the LunaRecycle Challenge

 

The challenge is designed to have two tracks, the Prototype Build track and the Digital Twin Track.

 

1. The Protoype Build track

 

The Prototype Build track is all about designing and constructing the hardware components and systems that will be able to recycle one or more streams of solid waste on the lunar surface.

 

2. The Digital Twin track

 

The Digital Twin Track, on the other hand, is focused on designing a virtual replica of a complete system for recycling streams of solid waste on the lunar surface and, in addition, manufacturing end products.

Companies who choose to participate will have the choice of competing in both of the tracks or just one. Each track promises a share of the prize money, so participation in both tracks creates the potential for higher rewards.

 

The Three Main Technological Needs of the LunaRecycle Challenge

 

The LunaRecycle Challenge aims to address three primary problems and technological needs. They include:

 

1. Clothing and trash management in space and logistics tracking
2. Manufacturing of parts and products in space and on-space
3. In-space and on-space manufacturing of re-used and recycled materials

 

It’s up to the competition participants to try to achieve these goals as best as possible as they work on one of or both tracks of the challenge.