Can soft robotics improve spacesuit dexterity?

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Soft Robotics Technology Poised to Enhance Spacesuit Dexterity

Soft robotics technology is a key component of the SmartSuit concept, which aims to significantly improve the dexterity of spacesuits. This innovative approach is expected to make future spacesuits more comfortable and allow astronauts greater mobility and improved interaction with their environments, potentially revolutionising exploration on celestial bodies like Mars.
Enhanced Mobility and Interaction

The SmartSuit design prioritizes enhanced mobility and interaction for astronauts. By incorporating soft robotics, the suit is intended to be more comfortable than current models, enabling wearers to move with greater ease and engage more effectively with their surroundings during extravehicular activities.
Self-Healing Skin and Data Collection

A significant feature of the SmartSuit is its outermost layer, composed of a self-healing skin membrane. This advanced material will not only serve to protect the astronaut but will also integrate transparent embedded sensors. These sensors are designed to collect valuable data, further enhancing the suit's functionality beyond mere protection.
Funding for Concept Development

The SmartSuit concept has received initial funding from Nasa's Innovative Advanced Concepts programme. This US$125,000 award over nine months will be dedicated to developing the necessary materials and sensor architectures. Future phases of funding could provide up to an additional US$500,000 over two years, with a potential US$2 million award for a selected project to bring the concept to fruition.

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Can soft robotics improve spacesuit dexterity?

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