NASA is seeking innovative solutions to a critical challenge in lunar exploration: the safe transportation of incapacitated astronauts on the Moon’s treacherous terrain. As part of its Artemis program, NASA has launched the South Pole Safety Challenge on the HeroX platform, offering a total prize pool of $45,000, with $20,000 awarded to the top design. The competition is open to individuals and teams worldwide, with submissions due by January 23, 2025 .
The Challenge
Designers must create a Lunar Rescue System capable of transporting a fully suited astronaut over a 2-kilometer distance, navigating 20-degree inclines, and rugged terrain—all without a rover. The system must be compatible with the Axiom Extravehicular Mobility Suit (AxEMU), developed for the Artemis missions. The South Pole’s extreme conditions, such as temperatures ranging from -203°C to 54°C and jagged, dusty terrain, pose unique challenges.
Key design criteria include:
Lightweight and compact construction.
Ability to function under lunar gravity, which reduces the astronaut’s effective weight but still demands innovative handling.
Minimal impact on the AxEMU suit and ease of deployment during emergencies.
Why It Matters
The lunar South Pole is the focal point of upcoming missions due to its potential water-ice reserves, essential for sustaining long-term exploration. However, its unforgiving environment makes astronaut safety a top priority. In emergencies like injuries or accidents, this rescue system will be crucial for transporting astronauts back to the lunar lander safely.
Rewards and Judging
NASA’s $45,000 prize will be distributed among winners, with the first-place design receiving $20,000. Submissions will be judged on innovation, adaptability, safety, and compatibility with the lunar environment. Additional factors, such as ease of use and manufacturing feasibility, will also be evaluated .
This challenge is part of NASA’s commitment to leveraging global expertise in addressing complex space exploration needs. Innovators are invited to contribute to this historic endeavor by submitting designs on HeroX. The winners will be announced on February 27, 2025 .
For more information or to participate, visit the HeroX platform or NASA’s official challenge page .