Green Daily

With all the mind-boggling, high-dollar gadgetry necessary to transport human beings into outer space, it's easy to forget the little things -- like how to make sure the astronauts have enough to drink. After all, it's not like you can just turn on the tap up there. And for longer missions -- like a trip to Mars, for instance -- packing enough water actually presents a big (not to mention expensive) problem.

Until now, that is. Scientists are perfecting a Regenerative Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS) that, essentially, creates drinking water every time the astronauts breathe, sweat, or go to the bathroom. A water-recovery system collects both condensation from the cabin and urine from the astronauts -- then through a host of filters (that get rid of gross stuff like hair and skin cells) and chemical treatments (that make the liquid safe), what would've been waste instead becomes drinkable.

This is great for the space program, but could also mean interesting things for the rest of us (whenever this technology finally becomes available to the public). Especially in areas prone to drought, this could be incredibly useful. But the question is: could you stomach drinking recycled pee?

Check out these other fun ideas -- all inspired by urine.

Gallery: Go green in the bathroom