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A team of scientists is working on happy suits for astronauts to use in future space missions.
STATES CHRONICLE – Astronauts in space face have to constantly face a number of difficult challenges. For example, they present a higher risk for mental illness because they expose themselves to twice as many dangerous challenges.
Students and researchers from the Florida Polytechnic University have recently begun working on what they have labeled as “happy suits.”
In future missions, this technology could get integrated within the astronomers’ spacesuits and clothing. This way, it might help put them in a better mindset during their space missions. At the same time, the astronauts would receive the maximum level of comfort and efficiency with these suits.
The Happy Suits, the Smart Skin
Endearingly termed happy suits for astronauts, the more technical term is Smart Sensory Skin. This was equipped with wireless sensors that can detect a broad range of physical deficiencies. As they recognize the need for adjustments, they will also automatically work their magic and complete them.
Whether in the spacecraft or the spacesuit, these adjustments will be made for better circumstances. Light exposure, temperature, light color, and oxygen levels are some of the possible modifications that could help improve the astronomers’ moods and mission.
In the final product, doctors on Earth will finally have an option to monitor pulse, blood pressure, and some of the other bodily functions of the men and women in space.
While the technology isn’t exactly groundbreaking, it does improve past ones. For example, current techniques reportedly feel uncomfortable, and astronomers have to collect the data first, and only later check it with a physician.
“It’s vital for astronauts to be mentally healthy during missions and right now there’s no active, real-time solution to help them when they feel stressed or anxious,” states Arman Sargolzaei, a Florida Polytechnic professor part of the study.
In contrast, the Smart Sensory Skin feels much lighter, and it has ergonomics twice as good. The innovation in the design has also meant that it integrates seamlessly with future space mission clothing.
It sounds like something intended more for pleasure, but in fact, this technology could help minimize the number of distractions men and women face in space. In doing so, it might also allow them to finish their tasks more safely and efficiently.
Image Source: MaxPixel
