Relieving themselves is one of the problems astronauts face in space, and since every little detail should be worked out well before we go to the Star Wars age, scientists are working to find ways to deal with this “shitty situation.” Japanese scientists have apparently devised a solution in the form of a portable toilet. Astronauts are supposed to wear these diaper-like devices around their waste at all times, and sensors in the toilets spring into action as soon as they detect that the user is about to relieve himself/herself.
The sensors then activate a suction unit that channels the waste into containers using tubes, and wash and dry the user after each use. Unwanted odors and sounds are also taken care of. There could be some use of these toilets on the ground, especially for medical patients.
Via: PinkTentacle
