Design and Product Development

Synergizing Wearable Technology and Augmented Reality for Astronaut Optimization; A Diverse Team Approach

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Abstract

With Artemis missions underway, advancing astronaut autonomy during Mars extravehicular activities (EVAs) requires innovative, user‑centered technologies. A multidisciplinary team from two universities designed an Augmented Reality User Interface (UI) integrated with an ExoSuit to enhance efficiency, reduce fatigue, and minimize reliance on peripherals. The Hololens‑based UI incorporated five components: navigation, suit data, geo, rover, and EVA, while supported by an AI voice assistant to enable hands‑free operation. Design considerations addressed extreme lighting conditions, screen visibility, and biometric monitoring. The ExoSuit housed peripherals including a vision kit, pyranometer, and biometric devices, secured through durable, adaptable construction aligned with NASA’s inclusivity goals. Materials were selected for strength, water resistance, and UV protection, with tethering systems for component stability. Testing revealed challenges in data streaming, LLM processing speed, and display correction, which were mitigated through backend adjustments. Results demonstrate the potential of AR‑enabled ExoSuit systems to improve astronaut performance and safety during EVAs.

Keywords: Wearable Technology, Augmented Reality, ExoSuit Design

How to Cite:

Dragoo, S., Govindarajan, A., Strout, C., Strout, C., Patel, I., Piotrowicz, M., Lasiter, P. & Gonzalez, I., (2025) “Synergizing Wearable Technology and Augmented Reality for Astronaut Optimization; A Diverse Team Approach”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 82(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.21838