Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) and The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) have been awarded $500,000 from NASA’s TechLeap Prize program to conduct a flight test of innovative electrolyzer technology aimed at enhancing propellant and life-support compound production for future space missions. The project, known as MARS-C, led by researchers from SwRI and UTSA, focuses on utilizing local resources on celestial bodies like the Moon or Mars to create essential compounds for long-term human habitation. The technology, developed with NASA support, involves converting simulated Martian brine and carbon dioxide into methane and hydrocarbons using a unique electrolyzer. Testing will take place on a parabolic flight to address the challenges posed by chemical processes in low gravity. The goal is to establish operating procedures and enhance the efficiency of electrolyzers for space exploration. This initiative reflects a positive sentiment towards advancing space exploration and fostering technological innovations that benefit both space missions and everyday life.