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Honda plans to test new technology that could help enable sustainable human life on the moon
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as well as advance clean energy solutions for both space and Earth
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The Japanese automaker has developed a high-differential pressure-water-electrosis system, which is a key component of Honda's broader plan to create a regenerative fuel cell
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capable of continuously producing oxygen, hydrogen, and electricity. During the lunar day, the system harnesses solar power to extract hydrogen and oxygen from water
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At night, when sunlight is unavailable, the stored hydrogen and oxygen will generate electricity
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while also supplying breathable oxygen for astronauts. The only byproduct of this closed-loop process is water that is then recycled
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But in order to make sure this technology can still function in the conditions outside of Earth's atmosphere
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Honda has partnered with U.S. aerospace leaders, TechMasters, and Sierra Space to bring the system up to the International Space Station for a trial run
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Once aboard the ISS, researchers will evaluate how the electrosis system performs in microgravity
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a critical step before adapting it for use on the moon. This project comes as Honda has been expanding its efforts in space innovation
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In early 2023, the company began collaborating with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency
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on its partnership with NASA's Artemis program, which aims to establish a sustained human presence on the moon
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And late last year, Honda established a space development division at its North American headquarters to boost U.S.-based research
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Meanwhile, testing at the ISS on this latest extraterrestrial initiative is expected to take place soon, although an official launch date has yet to be announced
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For Straight Arrow News, I'm Jack Almer
