Rescue Spacesuit

The Rescue Spacesuit is an innovative advancement designed to enhance astronaut safety during space exploration and extraterrestrial missions. The spacesuit has integrated c-spine support and tourniquets on the arms and legs. There are inflatable aspects integrated in the spacesuit to support these two functions. The c-spine support system, deployable via inflation, provides traction to stabilize the head and neck of an injured astronaut. The c-spine support can be activated using internal suit gas or external sources, while the limb tourniquets are strategically placed atop the bladder layer to optimize their effectiveness. This invention will specifically support human search, rescue and evacuation techniques for the surface of the Moon, space and beyond. 

Background: 
Spacesuits are human-sized and shaped spacecraft which incorporate environmental controls and life support systems. These systems are used to provide individual astronauts the capabilities to perform repairs, as well as research and explore the environment of space. Within the decade, NASA is looking to return astronauts to the Moon and develop a long-term settlement, resulting in an immediate need for a spacesuit that protects astronauts. Currently, spacesuits impede standard paramedical emergency response, which is necessary for the dangerous work environment that astronauts must endure. While current spacesuit technology prioritizes environmental control, life support, and operational mobility, it lacks built-in mechanisms to address traumatic injuries during spacewalks or surface exploration. This invented spacesuit incorporates spinal support and tourniquets to help apply emergency medicine and stabilize an astronaut who might become injured.

Applications: 

  • Spacesuit for astronauts
  • Space travel/tourism
  • Extraterrestrial exploration
  • Space search and rescue missions
  • Spacewalk safety


Advantages: 

  • Increased ability to stabilize astronaut given an injury
  • Safer research and exploration of space
  • Consolidated use of c-spine support and tourniquet
  • Integration without compromising mobility
Patent Information: