Meet The University Student Redesigning The Menstrual Cup For Space (And Earth)
Around 26% of the global population menstruates, yet managing a period remains a persistent hurdle. Whether it is a high-stakes scenario like living aboard the International Space Station or an everyday activity like hiking in a remote national park, inadequate sanitation and complex period products create unnecessary barriers.
Adelaide-based startup THE RED PLAN-ET was founded in 2026 to solve this exact problem. Originally engineered to address the unique constraints of microgravity environments on long-duration space missions, the startup is building a zero-waste, reusable menstrual product that functions seamlessly without needing a clean bathroom or running water.
We spoke with founder Mei He about how her background in space engineering inspired her to tackle period equity and how women on Earth can help shape the final product.
Bridging Space Engineering and FemTech
Mei started her journey studying Aeronautical (Space) Engineering Honours and Advanced Science (Chemistry) at the University of Sydney, where she also served as Co-President of Sydney Women in Aerospace Engineering, before continuing her studies at Adelaide University. Having worked across various roles in the Australian space sector and co-founded the Australian Space Diversity Alliance in 2024, she recognised a crucial gap: period management in extreme environments.
While designed with space in mind, the potential applications on Earth are vast, from remote industries and outdoor adventuring to disaster relief and communities with limited access to clean water and sanitation.
Help Shape The Future Of Period Tech
Every body is different, which is why Mei needs help to gather real-world insights from women to refine and improve traditional menstrual cup designs.
If you have used a menstrual cup, tried one and stopped, or decided against using one altogether, your feedback is vital to building a better alternative.
The survey takes less than one minute to complete.