“Nasa’s Human Landing System Program is looking for a next-generation device that is smaller, more efficient, and capable of working in both microgravity and lunar gravity.”

Nokia to build moon’s first mobile network for Nasa

Zyson Kang Zy Shun’s “Spacesuit Lunar Toilet” invention impressed judges, who awarded him the top prize in the Junior category, which saw 897 entries from children of 85 countries.

Zyson’s design, which can fit snugly into an astronaut’s spacesuit, does not need electricity or batteries, only requiring mechanical kinetic power. It was made with convenience in mind, he said.

“It works by applying a manual mechanical kinetic concept to produce a vacuum suction power to crystallise the urine and faecal matter for safe disposal.

“When you move your legs, the urine will flow down into a container in the astronaut’s boots,” he said. “The design does not require any electrical components, hence, minimising the potential of a malfunction in space.”

The primary three pupil presented his invention to the Nasa team on October 28 via a webinar.

Chong Soo Sheong, 43, of I-Discovery World science centre Kuala Lumpur, said Zyson’s achievement did not happen overnight.

“He has toiled on his design endlessly for months. There was a lot of learning process involved,” said Chong, who has been coaching Zyson.

“There were many ups and downs, trial and errors, as well as learning curves to overcome,” he said.

“But I’m glad his perseverance and continuous learning enabled him to stand out on an international platform.”