Lara Gauna and Mariano Tassinstudents from the Faculty of Arts and Design of the National University of Cuyo (UNCUYO), achieved international recognition by winning the category Best Mission Concept at Space Apps 2022the largest hackathon in the world sponsored by the POT.
Her project, “Mars 3D Home”, is a habitable space module designed for Mars, built with a 3D printer. This achievement has given them the opportunity to travel to the United States to visit NASA and present their innovative design.
The team, which also included Ivana Trento, Ian Pereyra and Maria Llarte from San Luis, impressed the judges with its practical design applicable to the Martian environment.
He “Mars 3D Home” allows you to build a house resistant to the harsh atmospheric conditions of Mars using concrete, metal and plastics. This project not only placed them among the top ten in the world in the competition, but also opened the doors for them to be recognized internationally.
Gauna and Tassin expressed their pride in representing Mendoza and Argentina in the POT and they highlighted the effort dedicated since 2022 to their project. They also mentioned their participation in the development of “RoverTito”, the first lunar rover in Latin America. This project complements his design of the ““Mars 3D Home” and reinforces its commitment to space exploration.
The invitation from NASA, received earlier this year, will lead them to present their project in Washington DC during June. This visit, organized in collaboration with The Mars Society Argentinais presented as a unique opportunity to show the talent and capacity of Argentine designers and scientists in the field of robotics and space technology.
Despite the enthusiasm for the invitation, Gauna and Tassin They face the challenge of covering travel costs. They are receiving donations through the Mendoza Foundation Create to make this experience a reality. Mariano expressed the hope that this event will strengthen the collaboration between Argentina and NASA and open new opportunities for future local space projects.
The presentation of “Mars 3D Home” in Washington DC will not only be a milestone in Argentine space exploration, but will also inspire future scientists and designers to reach new heights.
The creativity and dedication of these young students have shown that Argentina has a prominent place in the space race.
