Nasa has asked American universities to propose new technologies that will help the space agency conduct sustainable exploration of the moon. Successful applicants will receive up to $2m (£1.5m) from the newly inaugurated lunar surface technology research (Lustr) opportunity to rapidly develop technology in two key areas: finding and extracting water from the lunar “soil” or regolith, and developing power systems that will maintain technology through the long lunar nights.
Both are necessary for astronauts to stay on the moon for long periods. The water is essential for life support and can be split into hydrogen and oxygen for use as rocket fuel. Each lunar night is equivalent to 14 Earthdays and so reliable batteries will be needed, along with power distribution and control systems that can work well in the moon’s harsh radiation environment. Such power systems will also be needed to extract the water, much of which is thought to exist in permanently shadowed craters near the moon’s south pole.
Although the first human landings are scheduled for 2024, this will be only a short stay. Sustainable lunar exploration is not expected to begin until 2028. Lustr applications must be received by 12 August.
