Chain mail-inspired material developed for space travel

A new material inspired by chain mail used in armour worn by medieval knights could be used to create spacesuits of the future, according to its developers. The material can hold over 30 times its own weight while also being flexible, and was created by experts from the California Institute of Technology in Pasadena. As well as helping astronauts walk on Mars in the future, the 3D printed material may also cover the spacecraft - shielding it from meteorites and other deep space perils. More down to Earth, it offers extra protection for sports men and women due to its ability to turn from soft and bendable to rigid and back again. The hi-tech garment also opens the door to a smart exoskeleton that enables paralysed people to walk again, or could provide armour for modern soldiers.