2006-07-09 05:33:32 · 8 answers · asked by lovemars 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Astronomy & Space
If a tether breaks during a spacewalk, the result will depend on the motion of the astronaut right before the tether broke. For example, if the astronaut was moving away from the spaceship and the tether broke, before applying any force onto the astronaut, he would keep moving in the direction he was traveling at the speed he was traveling until he hit another object. If the tether produces a force on the astronaut before breaking, which it probably would, then he or she, almost like someone on a bungee cord, would move in an entirely new direction. Space is a vacuum, meaning there is no air, and the effects of gravity are very minimal, so practically no force is acting on the astronaut. NASA has dealt with this scenario by giving the astronaut a specially designed rocket suit, that allows him or her to move freely and still make it back to the ship using the power of the rocket suit. Another, more difficult option, if there is no rocket suit, is for the team on the shuttle to maneuver it in a manner that will catch the overboard astronaut. I hope this answers your question.
2006-07-09 05:45:35 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 4⤊ 2⤋
identity relies upon on how undesirable the breakage is. many times the area matches have many layers to guard the astronauts and performance protection measures merely in case. even if that is a finished rip off the the astronaut may unfortunalety die in a million or 2 seconds.
2016-11-01 12:21:04 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
If I am not mistaken, the tether is what also supplies most of their atmosphere. That's why they call it a life line. It is unlikely to break, but if it did, I believe they would experience vacuum for the first time.
2006-07-09 05:39:26 · answer #3 · answered by Darryl E 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If they had the MMU (Manned Maneuvering Unit) with them, they could use that. However, it is highly unlikely for a tether to break as most contain Kevlar fiber which makes them strong, but light weight.
2006-07-09 05:39:10 · answer #4 · answered by Shaula 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The spacecraft may be able to move into a position that could recover the astronaut.
2006-07-09 05:38:35 · answer #5 · answered by ijcoffin 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It is highly unlikely that a tether would break. But if it did, they do have manuevering jets. I can't remember the specific name of the pack they carry that gives them that.
2006-07-09 05:36:56 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
they would disappear quite quickly and die of exposure.
2006-07-09 05:40:59 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
very carefully...
2006-07-09 05:36:32 · answer #8 · answered by Some Lady 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋