Although the NASA space shuttle program has been shut down, experts are still trying to perfect the technology used on such missions; the latest being the heat-powered spacesuit. It is a spacesuit that uses the heat generated from an astronaut to run the necessary devices such as sensors and radios that keep the wearer safe.
Developed by engineers at the Kansas State University, the heat-powered spacesuit would usher in a much-needed alternative to current sources of energy. As Dvice points out, "Batteries are too dangerous to use with spacesuits because of the oxygen they generate." The researchers are also building sensors into the suit in order to measure how astronauts’ bodies change in space. They will monitor movement, pulse rate, blood oxygen levels, and respiration.
Heat-Powered Spacesuits
Kansas State University Engineers Tackle Other Forms of Power for Space
Trend Themes
1. Heat-powered Spacesuits - Opportunity to develop heat-powered technology for spacesuits that harnesses the energy generated by astronauts, offering a safer alternative to batteries.
Industry Implications
1. Space Exploration - Disruptive innovation opportunity to revolutionize spacesuit technology by integrating heat-powered devices and sensors for astronauts' safety and monitoring.