NASA is moving forward with Phase 2 of its innovative LunaRecycle Challenge, inviting U.S. based individuals and teams to develop creative solutions for recycling waste materials on the Moon. The LunaRecycle Challenge is part of a bigger effort to support long-term human presence in deep space by addressing waste, which is one of its biggest challenges.
A crew of four astronauts can generate over 2,100 kilograms (about 4,600 pounds) of single-use waste in just one year. This waste includes everyday materials such as plastic films, foam packaging, clothing, and food wrappers. These items are challenging to manage in space where traditional waste disposal systems are not viable.
The LunaRecycle Challenge wants to create a practical recycling system that can repurpose these materials into valuable products, helping to minimise resupply needs and environmental impact during long-term missions. These systems need to be efficient and safe, while also requiring minimal crew time and resource inputs. Phase 2 of the LunaRecycle Challenge is organized into two parts: a milestone round and a final round. Submissions for the milestone round are open until January 2026. Up to 20 finalists will be selected in February 2026 to move on to the final phase of the competition, which includes in-person prototype demonstrations and judging scheduled for August 2026.