Engineers at Kansas State University are working on the next generation spacesuit. The prototype can monitor an astronaut's vital signs by providing power to integrated electronic components. But what's unique is that it is powered from body heat.

Using the replica of the spacesuit used in the space shuttle program, engineers want to convert energy generated from an astronaut's body heat into power for on-board electronics like sensors and radios. The engineers are also building sensors into the suit to measure how astronauts' bodies change in space.

It will record information like pulse rate, blood oxygen levels, and respiration. Steven Warren, associate professor of electrical and computer engineering said:
“This project is a good example of how when you do something in space, everything needs to be rethought — human elements and nonhuman elements of the system. We have a lot to learn about human physiology and what happens to a person as they physically change in a reduced-gravity environment.”
The prototype suit is now undergoing testing with 3D electromagnetic field simulators. Will these be the ones used by astronauts in the future?

[Kansas State University]