Magnetic boots for EVA suits – Redefining spacewalk in lunar habitats

One of the major risks of space walking on the moon is drifting away due to tether failure and another important problem is the difficulty of astronauts to work since their movement is restricted. This gives us a unique problem to solve which is what this idea aims to solve. The solution is a novel concept that can be extrapolated into lunar habitats since there is reduced gravity and walking poses a huge challenge. Magnetic technology is the glue to solve these problems in the literal sense. Force needed to hold two magnetic things is very less due to absence of gravity, we need fractions of newtons. This concept aims to propose an architecture where the base of the boots of the EVA suits are lined with magnetic material which is activated during spacewalk. In microgravity the size and weight of magnetic material used is relatively low due reduced weight factor. The ISS body being metallic throughout, especially modules like the Airlock module acts as an advantage to this concept. According to standard space practices sensitive sensors such as magnetometers are shielded and calibrated therefore this addition to the EVA suit will not cause any magnetic or electrical disruptions. This way the suit provides more stability and security during spacewalking where the tether acts as a secondary safety measure. It also provides more stability during the spacewalking activities to the astronauts. 

The idea will be experimented by developing the prototype at the space analog hosted by LUNEX Technologies at space analog habitat in Krakow. We will also be using mathematical methods to correct the results of magnetic power required to Lunar Conditions. The entire detailed architecture and process between the Suit and surface will be simulated to Lunar conditions.

This idea as mentioned above can be extrapolated into pathways and bridges for humans to walk on and having paved magnetic pathways across the habitat will reduce the challenges of walking on the lunar surface.