Preliminary considerations for a wearable computer system for astronauts
on International Space Station (ISS) during extravehicular activity (EVA)
are discussed. The proposed system acts as a client on a wireless network
external to the ISS, and provides text, graphics, audio, and video to astronauts
using a near-eye display. Primary design considerations include astronaut
safety, comfort, ease of use, operational simplicity, and cost. Requirements
are highlighted for electrical design, in-suit thermal issues, the space
environment, and EVA displays and controls. A suit-internal wearable computer
system prototype is proposed. Suit-external components include a camera,
video processor, and wireless access point, which provides access for both
the suit-internal wearable and other potential wireless EVA tools. Future
plans include development and testing of the prototype system.