Produced by: Tarun Mishra Designed by: Manoj Kumar
Objective of Artemis Missions
The upcoming NASA Artemis missions aim to explore the moon’s south pole, where significant amounts of water ice are believed to exist. This water could be crucial for human consumption and as a source of oxygen for breathable air.
Challenge Overview
The Aqualunar Challenge, a collaboration between the U.K. and Canadian Space Agencies, is focused on developing technologies to convert lunar water ice into liquid water for future moon missions.
U.K. Finalists
Ten U.K. teams have been selected as finalists in the Challenge. Each team proposes a different method for extracting and purifying water from lunar ice, addressing the unique challenges of the moon’s environment.
Innovative Proposals
Lunasonic – Proposes melting the ice and using ultrasound waves to purify the water, similar to a jewelry cleaner. RIPPLE – Suggests vaporizing the ice, then separating contaminants using a vortex system, akin to a salad spinner. Ganymede’s Chalice – Plans to concentrate sunlight with mirrors to heat a crucible of ice, sequentially removing contaminants to yield clean water.
Technical Challenges
The technologies must withstand the extreme cold and abrasive lunar dust at the moon’s south pole. They must also be low-maintenance, as astronauts will not have easy access to replacements or repairs.
Judging Criteria
The proposals are being evaluated by a panel including UKSA reserve astronaut Meganne Christian. Criteria include the technology’s feasibility, durability, and efficiency.
Funding and Development
Each of the U.K. finalist teams will receive a £30,000 grant to further develop their technology. The U.K. winner and two runners-up will be announced in March 2025.
Canadian Competition
In parallel, the Canadian Space Agency has selected eight semi-finalists. This group will be narrowed down to four finalists in early 2025, with a final winner announced in early 2026. These efforts are crucial for ensuring that future Artemis astronauts have access to essential water supplies, supporting sustained human presence on the moon.
