Sunita Williams Rescue Plan: NASA Offers $20,000 For Best Rescue Plan To Save Stranded Astronauts On Moon

NASA has launched a global challenge, inviting innovators to create a life-saving Lunar Rescue System to aid incapacitated astronauts, including scenarios like those faced by Indian-origin astronaut Sunita Williams. The system aims to tackle the difficulties of safely transporting astronauts across the Moon’s rugged surface. As an incentive, the US space agency has announced a total prize pool of $45,000, including $20,000 for the best design.

The Lunar Rescue System will play a critical role in NASA's Artemis missions, which face challenges such as extreme lunar temperatures, rough terrain, and the limitations posed by bulky spacesuits. Submissions for the "South Pole Safety Challenge: Lunar Rescue System" are open until 23 January 2025 through the HeroX portal.

Addressing Lunar Challenges

NASA is preparing for situations where an astronaut may become incapacitated on the Moon due to medical emergencies, injuries, or accidents during the mission. In such events, crewmates must have an efficient method to transport them back to the lunar lander safely.

Also Read | Sunita Williams and Crew Celebrates Thanksgiving in Space with Smoked Turkey and Zero Gravity Fun (Watch Video).

The rescue system must be capable of moving a fully suited astronaut over two kilometres, including navigating a 20-degree incline, without relying on a rover. While the Moon’s low gravity reduces the astronaut's weight, manual carrying is still impractical, necessitating a technological solution.

Competition Details

Participants in the challenge must design a lightweight, practical, and effective rescue system that can operate under lunar conditions. The system must also be compatible with NASA's newly developed Axiom Extravehicular Mobility Suit (AxEMU). Designs will be judged based on criteria such as ease of use, weight, and impact on the astronaut’s safety and mobility.

How to Apply

Innovators can submit their designs through the HeroX portal, where NASA frequently announces public challenges. Submissions will close on 23 January 2025. NASA's team of experts and engineers will evaluate all entries based on their feasibility and alignment with mission requirements. For more information and application details, visit NASA’s official website or the HeroX portal.