Research
Funded Research
Simulating reduced gravity in space flight training using an exoskeleton
The overall goal of this project is to develop and demonstrate one of the most critical enabling technologies required for developing space flight motion simulators. These next-generation, end-to-end (from launch to landing), 6-degree-of-freedom (6-DOF) simulators will provide the realistic motion and visual cues for training space travelers. They will also support the future of personal space flight. The technology to be developed uses computer-controlled exoskeletons to allow a human limb to move freely as if in a zero-gravity or reduced-gravity environment. This project will focus on a one-degree-of-freedom prototype to demonstrate key concepts. Dr. Robert Paz, electrical and computer engineering, received funding from NASA EPSCoR through the New Mexico Space Grant Consortium.