How Is Nanotechnology Used in Space?

Function

Nanotechnology is a new science that works on the molecular scale to assemble new materials using the most fundamental of structures. All work is done in nano-scale, where one nanometer is equal to one-billionth of a meter. Applying this technology to space exploration opens up a whole new world of possibilities. The ability to "nano-manufacture" the specialized equipment needed for space travel removes many of the barriers currently preventing further advances within the field.
Environmental conditions like temperature, weight and resistance, are drastically different beyond the Earth's atmosphere. How a spacecraft is constructed determines how well it will be able to withstand adverse conditions while on a mission. How an astronaut's spacesuit is constructed determines how well protected he will be from the effects of radiation. The use of nanotechnology to manufacture spacecrafts and spacesuits means this equipment can be made molecule by molecule, allowing for the creation of new high-performance materials.
A big part of space exploration involves the study of the organic materials, land composition and biological systems found on other planets. A branch of nanotechnology called nanorobotics makes use of nano-sized sensors and microscopes capable of analyzing materials and processes on a molecular level. The use of these nano-robots means information is gathered and compiled in space and sent back to computers here on Earth, greatly reducing the need for human-manned flights.

Features

Researchers have found that the effects of radiation on electronic devices are greatly reduced when the devices are smaller. Corrosion, electrical interference and mechanical strain are all environmental effects caused by continued exposure to radiation. To counter this, scientists are currently developing a nano-material that is capable of hardening when exposed to radiation for long periods of time.
As of 2007, NASA has been working on developing materials for use in making spacecrafts and spacesuits. Carbon nanotubes and boron nanotubes are two new molecular materials being developed. These materials are lightweight but significantly stronger than the conventional materials in use today. On top of this, scientists are attempting to construct nanorobotic devices built into the actual covering of a spacecraft. These devices would act as computerized sensors capable of re-adjusting the surface of the spacecraft to accommodate changing environmental climates.

Potential

The field of nanotechnology is so new that scientists are still discovering new capabilities and applications. Foreseen developments within space exploration include establishing colonies of nanorobots on Mars and Venus, and the building of space elevators that will place spaceships and satellites into Earth's orbit.
Space colonization efforts would use nanorobots to construct projects on other planets by remote control using the environmental materials at hand. Sensors and cameras would be built by the nanorobots, and used to monitor the construction projects.
Plans for space elevators entail constructing a cable leading from earth to Earth's orbit using carbon nanotubes as the material. Electric lifts would then run the length of the cable. The lightweight durability of carbon nanotubes makes them a likely material for constructing the satellites and space stations that will ride the lift.
As of yet, no one knows how far nanotechnology will advance space exploration. Workers in the field are still trying to identify and understand the limits of molecular manufacturing. So for now, anything may very well be possible.

Resources

• Nanotechnology in Space
• Space Development