Why did NASA abandon the dream of the untethered space jetpack?
In short: On February 7, 1984, astronaut Bruce McCandless II became the first human to fly freely in space using the Manned Maneuvering Unit. While jetpacks are science fiction staples, modern spacewalks are strictly tethered. This video explores the history of the MMU and why this mobility tool was ultimately retired.
The Manned Maneuvering Unit (MMU) was a bulky, chair-like device powered by jets of nitrogen gas. During the 1984 Space Shuttle Challenger mission, it allowed Bruce McCandless II to operate 370 kilometres above Earth without any physical connection to the spacecraft. This feat realized a long-standing aspiration for astronauts to move independently in the vacuum of space.
Despite the success of the MMU, current Extravehicular Activities (EVAs) rely on safety tethers. The video examines the evolution of this technology and the practical constraints that shifted NASA away from using free-flying jetpacks for routine spacewalks.
Opens the Intellect+ feed with this card first. Swipe up for the next one.
Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Touching the Void: The Story of the Space Jet Pack
To cite this card, link to https://intellectplus.co.uk/app/ideas-touching-the-void-the-story-of-the-space-jet-pack.
How we source, check and correct cards: Editorial standards.
General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.
Intellect Plus is a visual educational discovery platform for exploring fascinating facts and ideas. Brain Food, Not Brain Rot. What is Intellect Plus?
