NASA's Watts on the Moon Challenge, concluding on September 20, 2024, aims to develop power transmission and energy storage technologies for lunar missions under the Artemis program.
Key points include:
Continuous, reliable power is essential for sustained astronaut presence on the Moon.
Technologies are tested in simulated lunar conditions to withstand extreme cold and low atmospheric pressure.
Finalists delivered prototypes that operate effectively in a scenario with 6 hours of solar daylight and 18 hours of darkness.
Teams are evaluated based on Total Effective System Mass (TESM), with awards of $1 million for the lowest TESM score and $500,000 for the second lowest.
This initiative not only prepares for Moon missions but also aims to improve battery resilience in harsh conditions on Earth.