NASA's Got a Trash Problem: Can You Solve It for $3M?

NASA is facing a major trash problem for its long-term lunar missions. To tackle this, they've launched the LunaRecycle Challenge, offering up to $3 million in prizes. This competition, split into two phases, seeks innovative recycling solutions to reduce space junk and improve sustainability. For Phase 1, teams must design recycling systems for a hypothetical 365-day mission. Submissions close on March 31, 2025. The winner will be announced in May. Phase 2 involves building a functioning prototype of the winning Phase 1 design, with details released later.

Teams need to register by March 31, 2025, using the Expression of Interest Form. Registrations will be reviewed, and the team leader will be notified. Prizes for Phase 1 include $600, 000 for the best physical prototype and $400, 000 for the best digital twin. Phase 2 offers bigger rewards: $1. 4 million for the top physical prototype and $600, 000 for the best digital twin. Beyond space, NASA hopes these solutions will inspire better recycling methods back on Earth, making processes more efficient and reducing harm to the environment.

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