AIR-0
AIR-0 is an extravehicular activity (EVA) footwear system developed for astronauts operating in microgravity. The design addresses two critical challenges of low Earth orbit work: anchoring to spacecraft structures and stabilizing the ankle joint under load. A rotating mechanical sole locks into keyed interfaces on the spacecraft exterior, while dual inflatable bladders stiffen dynamically around the ankle to provide adjustable support during force-intensive tasks like equipment handling.
The system combines inflatable pneumatics, 3D-printed TPU structural components, and heat-sealed coated nylon bladders. Extensive materials testing, sealing protocols, and iterative fabrication informed the final prototype, balancing flexibility for free motion with rigidity for joint stabilization. A custom BOA lacing system secures the system while preserving ease of donning and doffing. The fully functional prototype demonstrates a task-adaptive wearable interface designed to minimize astronaut fatigue, reduce injury risk, and expand EVA mobility capabilities.
4.154 Space Architecture
Spring 2025
Team / Gert Duvenhage, Orr Kalati, Yuying Lin
Instructors / Jeffrey Hoffman, Oliver Moldow, Cody Paige, Skylar Tibbits
