A student research team from Texas Tech University has been named a finalist in the NASA Human Lander Challenge
A student research team from Texas Tech University has been named a finalist in the NASA Human Lander Challenge, earning a $9,000 award to support its proposed work on spacecraft noise reduction.
The team, part of the Biomedical Acoustics Research Laboratory in the Department of Mechanical Engineering is one of 12 finalists selected nationwide for the competition, which supports technology development for future lunar missions.
The challenge is part of NASA’s broader Artemis program, which aims to return humans to the Moon and establish a long-term presence to support eventual missions to Mars. The Human Lander Challenge contributes to those efforts by advancing innovations tied to human landing systems and long-duration spaceflight.
The competition is aligned with NASA’s Exploration Systems Development Mission Directorate, which focuses on developing technologies critical to sustaining astronaut health and performance, including Environmental Control and Life Support Systems.
The Texas Tech team is led by Jingfei Liu, an assistant professor from the Department of Mechanical Engineering. Student researchers include Meghan Cephus, Ezekiel Anguiano and Sergio Cantu.
Their project, “Acoustic Metamaterial Panel for Spacecraft Noise Suppression,” addresses the challenge of managing noise levels within human landing systems. The research focuses on using acoustic metamaterials — engineered structures designed to control sound — to reduce harmful noise while maintaining necessary airflow for spacecraft operations.
By targeting specific frequency ranges, the team aims to improve in-cabin communication, reduce crew fatigue and enhance overall habitability. Potential applications include air vent panels, duct-side paneling and insulation systems around common onboard noise sources such as fans, water recovery and cooling systems, carbon dioxide removal units and oxygen generation systems.
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