Soft Robotics for Space Applications

The emerging field of soft robotics represents an opportunity for novel solutions in the demanding environment of space. This talk will feature a brief overview of the domain of soft robotics, its suitability to space exploration applications, and a survey of NASA funded projects involving soft and/or hybrid robotics. There will also be discussion of the interpretation of next-generation space suits as wearable soft robots, and the exciting potential mechanical counter-pressure presents.