How do astronauts go to the bathroom in space?

Going to the bathroom is much more complicated in space without any gravity. To solve this problem of tricky orbital potty breaks, NASA builds special toilets that work without gravity.

By: Tracy K.P. Gregg, University at Buffalo, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: January 31, 2026

Words: 863

Last Updated: 1 month, 2 weeks ago

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By Tracy K.P. Gregg, University at Buffalo

Curious Kids is a series for children of all ages. If you have a question you’d like an expert to answer, send it to CuriousKidsUS@theconversation.com.

How do astronauts go to the bathroom in space? – Henry D., age 7, Cambridge, Massachusetts

Whether you use a hole in the ground or a fancy gold-plated toilet, on Earth, gravity pulls your waste down and away from …

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