Hobbies And Interests
Maneuvering Units
Designed like a backpack, maneuvering units allow astronauts to move around in space. These units have evolved over the years from bulky units that surrounded the astronaut, to sleeker designs with controls built into the suit's arms to facilitate ease of movement. These units consist of various nozzles which, when activated, dispense compressed nitrogen gas to propel the astronaut in any given direction. Newer systems like the Simplified Aid for Extravehicular Activity Rescue (SAFER) unit use small joysticks and monitors to aid the astronaut with directing the device.
Intravehicular Tools
Intravehicular tools are tools, used inside space shuttles and space stations, to make in-flight maintenance. These tools are generally the same tools found in everyday hardware stores on Earth, though sometimes slightly modified for repairing electrical cables and connectors. Tools most often used by astronauts for in-flight maintenance include various sizes of wrenches, pry bars, vise grips, hammers, and sockets. More advanced types of intravehicular tools include computer programs to help astronauts unload cargo and simple household tools like vacuum cleaners and stereos.
Extravehicular Tools
Extravehicular tools are those used outside of the space shuttles and stations; they are made of special materials to resist the high vacuum and extremely thermal environment of space. These tools are simple hand tools specifically designed to be worked from within a space suit where fine motor skills are difficult. Extravehicular tools are divided into the categories of general purpose tools and unique purpose tools. Some of the most well-known tools include the robot crane, used to position materials during construction; and the Pistol-Grip tool developed by Alliant Techsystems, Inc, a self-contained, computer controlled power tool. The Pistol-Grip tool is used with socket extensions to torque and remove bolts and has been an essential tool in the repairing of the International Space Station and the Hubble Space Telescope.
Safety Tethers
Safety tethers are an essential tool for any space mission and are one of the most important tools used by astronauts. Every tool is connected to a safety tether, typically 25 feet in length, this is then attached to handrails along the space station. Since fine motor skills are impeded by space suit gloves, there is an increased risk of tools being lost in the void of space. These tethers work to secure not only the tools, but also the astronauts using them from drifting off and colliding with the station. Made of a super strong heat-resistant webbing, these tethers can withstand over 800 lbs. of force.