New technology is giving astronauts exploring distant worlds a helping hand. Scientists from NASA and the SETI Institute have developed a'smart glove' that lets astronauts control robots, specifically drones, through one-handed gestures. The innovation uses a micro-controller to read an array of sensors that capture even the smallest motion of the fingers and hands. The glove coincides with NASA's latest spacesuit design that aims to add more comfort and efficiency for astronauts as they explore the moon and Mars. Scientists from NASA and the SETI Institute have developed a'smart glove' that lets astronauts control robots, specifically drones, through one-handed gestures The smart glove is a prototype for a human-machine interface (HuMI) that would allow astronauts to wirelessly operate a wide array of robotic assets, including drones, via simple single-hand gestures.

Reinventing the future of work can lead to shared prosperity. An artificial intelligence-driven career adviser, an industrial smart glove, freelance insurance, a tactile laptop for the visually impaired. The 12 European finalists of the global MIT Inclusive Innovation Challenge are "improving economic opportunity for workers," according to the MIT Initiative on the Digital Economy. The challenge is the flagship program of the initiative, and this year the initiative launched a worldwide competition divided into five regions: North America, Latin America, Europe, Africa, and Asia. "If we employ inclusive innovation globally, it could be the best thing that ever happened to humanity," Erik Brynjolfsson, director of the initiative, said in a statement.

What one piece of technology would most improve your working life? Chances are it wouldn't be a glove. But car workers in Germany are now using smart gloves that not only save time but prevent accidents as well. It is an example of how tech-enhanced humans are fighting back against the seemingly unstoppable rise of the robots. At BMW's spare parts plant in Dingolfing, for example, which employs around 17,500 people, hand-held barcode readers have been replaced by gloves that scan objects when you put your thumb and forefinger together.