'Space mission' puts robotic trousers to test

ASTRONAUTS could soon be able to move more freely in space thanks to robotic trousers developed by Bristol scientists.

- STEPHEN BEECH

Not only does the groundbreaking technology have out-of-this-world benefits, but researchers say it could also provide more down-to-earth help for people who need support with their mobility.

‘The lightweight robotic exosuit is designed to resemble a garment and is mostly made of fabric material, according to a study published in the journal Advanced Science.

Worn underneath a spacesuit, the exosuit features artificial muscles that work automatically to help astronauts reduce muscular fatigue while maintaining natural movements during future missions to the moon and Mars.

Dr Emanuele Pulvirenti, research associate in the University of Bristol’s Soft Robotics Lab, travelled to the Exterres CRATER facility - the largest simulated lunar environment in the Southern Hemisphere - at the University of Adelaide in Australia.