We’ve seen the Marvel movie where people ask Tony Stark how do you pee in a suit? The same was shown in the movie “Dune”, the suit converted moisture and urine into potable water.

 Similarly, NASA is making a space suit under its Artemis program, “The design includes a vacuum-based external catheter that leads to a combined forward reverse osmosis unit, providing a continuous supply of potable water with multiple safety mechanisms to ensure astronaut well-being” explained Eofia Etlin, at Weil Cornell university.

NASA Artemis III’s mission is to launch in 2026. They plan to land a crew on the Lunar South Pole with the ambition to launch a Man mission on Mars by the 2030s.

This space suit is needed for the mission because the current space suite has only one liter of stored capacity, which is insufficient for long-duration lunar spacewalks. This is a crucial component for extended space missions, where astronauts might need to remain in their suits for several days in case of emergencies.

Historically, female astronauts have faced particular challenges with waste management in space. Unlike male astronauts who used catheters, women relied on maximum absorbency garments (MAGs), essentially adult diapers. This was uncomfortable and unsanitary, especially for long-duration missions.

The Solution

NASA is working on a more efficient and hygienic system. The new spacesuits will incorporate:

• A collection cup: This is designed to fit the wearer’s anatomy and is part of an undergarment made from multiple layers of flexible fabric.
• Urine-to-water conversion: Some designs aim to convert collected urine into drinkable water within minutes, addressing the issue of water scarcity in space.

Key Features

• Comfort and efficiency: The suit is designed to be as comfortable as possible while ensuring reliable waste management.
• Gender inclusivity: The design addresses the specific needs of both male and female astronauts.
• Emergency preparedness: The suit is intended for extended wear in emergencies, making waste management a critical factor.

Importance for Future Missions

This space suit is needed for the mission because the current space suite has only one liter of stored capacity, which is insufficient for the long-duration lunar spacewalk. This is a crucial component of extended space missions, where astronauts might need to remain in their suits for several days in case of emergencies.

In essence, NASA’s pee suit is more than just a piece of clothing. It’s a technological advancement that will significantly improve the comfort, safety, and efficiency of future space missions.