Space Tool - Wrench

Space Tool - Wrench

This space wrench 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 space wrench 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 handle of the space wrench has a gap in the middle for a tether to attach. This removes the risk of the tool accidently floating away.

Without gravity as an anchor, attempting to turn a bolt with a normal wrench while floating in space would result in the cosmonaut turning rather than the bolt. The space wrench is fitted with a cogged rack, which turns the wrench head when struck with a space hammer.