# Vibrating Astronaut Footwear These Space Shoes Help Prevent Astronauts From Suffering Falls By Rahul Kalvapalle | Published 2016-07-28 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/space-shoe References: [gizmag](http://www.gizmag.com/vibrating-boots-astronaut/44515/) & [news.mit.edu](http://news.mit.edu/2016/vibrating-footwear-astronauts-visually-impaired-0722) A group of scientists and engineers working out of [MIT's](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/electrovoxel) [Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/incheon-national-university), working in collaboration with the [Charles Stark Draper Laboratory](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/charles-keith-1), have developed an exceptionally futuristic and high-tech space shoe that is designed to make it capable to reduce the risk of astronauts falling over in space. These shoes are embedded with an array of sensors as well as haptic motors that guide the wearer around potential obstacles by using vibrations. The vibrations vary based on proximity. The act of slipping and falling over might not be a big deal for most people here on planet Earth, but it can be fatal in space environments, which is why MIT's space shoe could be a hugely important innovation as far as space travel and exploration are concerned. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 5.5/10 - Popularity: 74% | Activity: 83% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 70% men, 30% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Gadgets](https://www.trendhunter.com/gadgets) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Sensory Footwear:** Developing footwear with embedded sensors and haptic motors to enhance stability and prevent falls. - **Proximity-based Vibrations:** Using varying vibrations based on proximity to guide individuals around obstacles and prevent accidents. - **Space Travel Safety:** Addressing the need for technologies that reduce the risk of falls and accidents in space environments. ### Where This Applies - **Footwear Manufacturing:** Exploring innovative ways to integrate sensors and haptic motors into footwear to enhance safety and stability. - **Space Exploration:** Developing technologies that improve astronaut safety and prevent accidents during space missions. - **Assistive Technology:** Applying proximity-based vibration technology to assist individuals with mobility challenges and prevent falls. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Advanced Robotic Footwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/moonwalkers-x.md) - [Ultra-Fast Walking Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/shift-robotics-moonwalkers.md) - [Haptic VR Walking Boots](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ekto-one-boots.md) - [Robotic Brace Walking Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nike-project-amplify.md) - [Resistance Training Space Outfits](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cosmofit-exosuit.md) - [Lightweight Gliding Walker Boosters](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/moonwalkers-aero.md) - [3D-Printed Smart Insoles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/3d-printed-customized-insoles.md) - [Space Exploration Sneaker Styles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/2024-reebok-x-nasa-shoes.md) - [Wearable Gait Rehabilitation Systems](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/gait-rehabilitation-system.md)