tech
Artemis II astronauts talk mission toilet troubles: "We made do"
Updated on: May 1, 2026 / 9:41 AM EDT / CBS News
TL;DR
- Artemis II mission experienced toilet troubles from the first day.
- A frozen vent line made it impossible for the toilet tank to empty.
- NASA flight controllers re-oriented the capsule to allow sunlight to warm and clear the vent.
- Astronauts used backup 'contingency collapsible urinals' (CCUs) to manage waste.
- CCUs are plastic containers that collect urine and can be vented into space later.
- Each crew member has two CCUs, which replace approximately 25 pounds of diapers.
- The crew managed hygiene challenges by using backup systems and making do.