In space, no one will notice you lose your dignity. Aw, we kid — it's really not that bad at all. Japan is developing a space diaper, one that uses powerful suction to collect waste when nature calls in orbit. Sensors let the diaper know when to activate, and it will even dry and clean up its wearer after the fact. Now that's one smart latrine.

JAXA, Japan's national space agency, wants to have the diaper fully developed and ready within the next five years. The agency also sees other uses for the technology, including aiding the incontinent elderly.

Via Pink Tentacle