ON Mars, there are no supermarkets or ovens to cook with, let alone refrigerators to keep your groceries cool. In space, everything has to be rethought in terms of food circuits, from production to conservation. And so with this in mind, NASA has launched a competition to stimulate creativity. It is looking to the public for ideas for projects that could feed its astronauts during a mission without having any impact on the environment.
Gratin dauphinois, beef bourguignon or cod with piquillos... During his last mission on the International Space Station, French astronaut Thomas Pesquet ate versions of these gastronomic dishes, thanks to conserves and freeze-dried dishes that French Michelin-starred chef Thierry Marx had specially prepared for him.
All he had to do was heat them up, or add a little water and he was ready to eat. In an interview with Figaro Madame, the chef of the Mandarin Oriental explained that during a future mission in space, and particularly one on Mars, "we will no longer be able to be satisfied with sending ready-made food."
And he added: "it will probably be necessary to make it on the spot, or during the journey...] travelling to Mars takes at least six months to go and six months to return. Without counting the time of the mission on-site. So we will have to rethink the power supply system. Perhaps by using micro-agriculture? In any case, this will represent new challenges."
And Thierry Marx's comments indeed encapsulate the issue. NASA is actively looking for ways to provide a healthy and balanced diet for its astronauts. And the public is invited to contribute through a contest. The first phase of this challenge launched last October and saw participants propose mushroom plants, lab-based meat culture, dehydrated powders that can be transformed into food, vertical farms and 3D printing.
Now, the International Space Agency wants to put its money where its mouth is by encouraging people to create prototypes. It is offering a million dollars to those who can come up with the most effective project to feed a team of four astronauts sent to Mars for a three-year mission.
But, it is not a question of proposing just any solution. The projects must incorporate a sustainable dimension. So setting up a system that would generate waste is totally out of the question. The challenge is as much about designing a way to preserve food as it is about producing and preparing it.
The call for projects is open to all until February 28. But be warned: if you are not a US resident, you will only be proposing your idea for the good of the space community. The $1 million prize will only be awarded to a US-residing participant.
ETX Studio
Tue Feb 01 2022
During his last mission on the International Space Station, Thomas Pesquet ate tinned and freeze-dried food prepared by famous French chef Thierry Marx. - ETX Studio
ISIS Malaysia's perspective of Budget 2025
An excellent rakyat-centric budget under the overarching principle of a caring and humane economy.
Budget 2025: Record increase in STR, SARA aid initiatives
The government will provide a significant boost to the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) and Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) initiatives next year.
Budget 2025: EPF contributions to be made mandatory for foreign workers – PM Anwar
The government plans to make it compulsory for all non-citizen workers to contribute to the Employees Provident Fund (EPF).
What policies to expect from Indonesia's new President Prabowo
Prabowo will be open to foreign investment, his aide has said, such as by offering investors management of airports and sea ports.
Budget 2025: Govt allocates RM470 mil to empower women's participation in PMKS
The Women's Leadership Apprenticeship Program will be intensified as an effort to produce more female corporate personalities.
Israel sends more troops into north Gaza, deepens raid
Residents of Jabalia in northern Gaza said Israeli tanks had reached the heart of the camp, using heavy air and ground fire.
Indonesia ramps up security ahead of Prabowo's inauguration
Prabowo Subianto will be sworn in as Indonesia's president on Sunday with Vice President-elect, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, also taking office.
Immediate allocation of RM150 mil for local authorities, DID to tackle flash floods
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said this allocation is intended to address the recent flash floods that hit the capital and several major towns.
Budget 2025: Sabah, Sarawak to continue receiving among highest allocations - PM
Sabah and Sarawak continues to be prioritised under Budget 2025, with allocations of RM6.7 billion and RM5.9 billion respectively.
NFOF will be operational in November 2024 with funding of RM1 bil
PM Anwar Ibrahim said NFOF will support venture capital fund managers to invest in startup companies with RM300 million set aside for 2025.
Minimum wage to increase to RM1,700 effective Feb 1, 2025
The Progressive Wage Policy would be fully enforced next year with an allocation of RM200 million, benefiting 50,000 workers.
Bursa Malaysia ends higher on Budget 2025 optimism
The benchmark index, which opened 1.85 points higher at 1,643.29, moved between 1,641.71 and 1,649.31 throughout the trading session.
Five important aspects relating to people’s lives in Budget 2025 - PM
The focus is on driving the MADANI Economy, speeding reforms, cutting red tape, raising wages, and tackling the cost of living.
Economic outlook: Govt plans to leverage, expand existing city transit system
The expansion aims to provide a more efficient and reliable public transportation network, reduce congestion, and improve accessibility.
Economic outlook: Budget 2025 to lay foundation for a digital-driven economy
The report said Budget 2025 will entail efforts to position Kuala Lumpur as a top 20 global startup hub by 2030 through the KL20 initiative.
Economic outlook: Corruption and lack of accountability hinder economic progress
Special Cabinet Committee on National governance is established to curb corruption, law reforms to modernise outdate regulations, MoF said.
National Wages Consultative Council will be strengthened
The govt will also incentivise hiring women returning from career breaks, offer job matching and improve care services facilities.
Economic outlook: Ensuring 11 years of compulsory education for all children
Budget 2025 will continue prioritising upskilling and retraining initiatives to equip workers with the latest skill sets necessary.
Consolidated public sector projected to record lower surplus of RM41.7 bil 2024
The MoF said the consolidated general government revenue is estimated to increase slightly to RM384.7 billion in 2024.
PM announces substantial Budget 2025 hastening Malaysia to become Asian economic powerhouse
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said it would create jobs and also tackle financial leakages to enhance public spending efficiency.