🛰️ Top 10 Essential Tools Astronauts Use in Orbit (2025 Update)

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Space is not just the final frontier—it’s also an extreme environment where even the simplest task becomes a technological challenge. Since the first humans ventured into space, astronauts have depended on specialized tools to survive and work in microgravity.

In 2025, as missions become longer and more complex, the International Space Station (ISS) continues to serve as a high-tech hub in low Earth orbit. Let’s dive into 10 of the most important tools astronauts use in space today.


🧰 1. Multi-Use Tool (Zero-G Wrench)

What It Is: A specially designed wrench that works in zero gravity. Unlike traditional wrenches, it uses magnetic or Velcro systems to secure itself.

Example: NASA’s torque-limiting ratchet wrench was even 3D printed aboard the ISS in 2014.

"This is more than a tool; it's an astronaut’s third hand." – NASA Mechanical Engineer Mike Snyder

💻 2. Laptops with Space-Friendly Software

What It Is: Ruggedized ThinkPad laptops preloaded with custom software to control systems, communicate, and monitor experiments.

Fun Fact: They float around using Velcro and use Linux as their primary OS.

🚽 3. Advanced Space Toilet (Universal Waste Management System)

Why It Matters: In microgravity, even using the toilet requires a highly engineered system of suction and separation.

Update 2025: NASA’s UWMS is now standard on the ISS and upcoming Artemis missions.

🩺 4. Medical Diagnostic Toolkit

What’s Inside: Portable ultrasound, defibrillators, ECGs, digital thermometers.

New in 2025: Smart patches that track vitals in real time and sync with Earth-based teams.

👩‍🔬 5. Glovebox (Microgravity Science Glovebox - MSG)

Purpose: A sealed chamber for safe handling of hazardous or sensitive materials.

Example: Used in fluid dynamics, combustion, and biology experiments.

🧽 6. Water Recovery System (WRS)

Why It’s Crucial: Water is recycled from urine, sweat, and humidity.

NASA Fact: Up to 93% of water is recovered and reused on the ISS.

🧪 7. Portable Scientific Kits

Instruments Include: Microfluidics, bioprinters, and zero-G ovens.

2025 Update: Carbon nanostructure kits used for material testing in orbit.

🔧 8. Tethered Tool Belts

Reason: To prevent tools from floating away during spacewalks.

"Lose a wrench in space, and you lose a mission." – ESA Astronaut Andreas Mogensen

🛰️ 9. Robotic Assistants (Astrobee)

What It Is: Autonomous AI robots that float, assist and record data.

2025 Insight: Astrobee bots now feature upgraded navigation and diagnostics support.

👓 10. Augmented Reality (AR) Headsets

Usage: AR glasses allow astronauts to follow instructions and overlays hands-free.

Update: Microsoft HoloLens 2 is used for repairs and experiments.

🧭 Final Thoughts

Astronauts rely on a combination of traditional tools and futuristic tech to work in space. These tools are critical for safety, health, and mission success—and they evolve with every mission. With Mars on the horizon, the tools of today will shape the exploration of tomorrow.

📚 Sources 

  • NASA Official Website
  • ESA - Tools in Space
  • Space.com - Tools in Orbit
  • IEEE Spectrum - Astrobee in Orbit
  • NASA - 3D Printed Wrench

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