The University of Chichester has taken its first steps into space research as part of an international project testing a prototype spacesuit for future lunar exploration.
The University of Chichester has taken its first steps into space research as part of an international project testing a prototype spacesuit for future lunar exploration.
The university’s Occupational Performance Research Group is working with King’s College London’s Spacesuit Physiology Laboratory and Nåva Space on the study, which looks at how the suit performs during simulated astronaut tasks.
The research focuses on simulated extravehicular activities, known as EVAs. These are tasks astronauts carry out outside a spacecraft, including geological sampling, exploration and maintenance work.
Nåva Space’s prototype EVA suit has been designed to improve the wearer’s field of view compared with current spacesuits. Researchers are now testing whether it can also improve spatial awareness and reduce cognitive load.
The team assessed how participants performed in tasks including avoiding obstacles, identifying geological features and completing manual dexterity challenges linked to construction and sampling.
These were combined with physiological measurements, including heart rate and skin temperature, as well as biomechanical data, such as head and torso movement. Participants were also asked about comfort, mental effort and physical effort while wearing and not wearing the suit.
Marcus Peach, Data Collection Lead at the University of Chichester, said: “Space is arguably the most extreme environment that humans perform in, as even the smallest mistake, a stumble or a missed hazard, can have severe consequences to both mission success and astronaut safety. When we were designing this study, we knew from the outset that it had to combine physiological, cognitive, and occupational relevant aspects.”
Jarle Steinberg, Chief Technology Officer at Nåva Space, said the study was laying the groundwork for further testing with space agencies and astronauts.
Professor Sam Blacker, OPRG Co-lead, said the project builds on the university’s work to improve health and performance in physically demanding jobs, with further collaboration planned.
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