Space Tool - Hammer

Space Tool - Hammer

This space hammer is an example of the kind of tools used by cosmonauts undertaking Extravehicular Activities (EVAs) outside the Russian space station Mir. Between 1986 and 2001 a total of eighty EVAs were conducted around Mir. To perform repairs in the harsh environment of space specialised tools are required.

The hammer is filled with small metal spheres to dampen the shock and prevent recoil. This also helps to increase the kinetic energy transfer to the struck object. The hammer is made of beryllium copper alloy, which is able to withstand the extreme temperatures experienced outside the space station. In low Earth orbit the temperature can soar to 121˚C while facing the Sun and in the dark it can plunge to -157 ˚C.

The bulky gloves of a spacesuit limit manual dexterity and hand fatigue happens due to constantly fighting against the pressure of the suit. Therefore, space tools are larger than their equivalent on Earth and have specially designed handles to make them easier to grip. The gaps in the handle allow a tether to be attached, to prevent the hammer accidently floating away.