Astronauts may soon have more freedom of movement thanks to a soft robotic exosuit developed by University of Bristol researchers.
The technology not only has extraterrestrial benefits but also potential to aid people with mobility issues on Earth.
The soft robotic exosuit is designed like a garment, primarily made of fabric material, and features artificial muscles that work automatically.
Worn under the spacesuit, it helps reduce muscular fatigue while maintaining natural movements during future Moon and Mars missions.
Dr Emanuele Pulvirenti, Research Associate at the University of Bristol's Soft Robotics Lab, recently visited the University of Adelaide's Exterres CRATER facility in Australia for trials.
The exosuit is designed to resemble a garment and is mostly made of fabric material.
Author's summary: Astronauts to get robotic exosuit.