Episode 117: Textiles in Space

Episode 117: Textiles in Space

From Materialism: A Materials Science Podcast by Taylor Sparks and Andrew Falkowski

May 4, 2026 · 38 min · Episode 117

About this episode

This episode explores the innovative use of textiles in space, featuring insights from Kate Winning of Oxford Space Systems.

The fanciest suit isn't on the runway, it's in orbit. In this follow-up episode, Taylor and Andrew bring back Kate Winning from Oxford Space Systems to dive into the world of space textiles. From the knitted gold-plated mesh antennas that fold up for launch and deploy to the size of a room, to the 14-layer suit that keeps astronauts alive. Learn why tungsten makes a better yarn than you'd expect, how ancient crafts still have a place in high tech manufacturing, and why the hardest part of a spacesuit might just be the gloves. Thanks to Kate from Oxford for talking to us. Learn more about Oxford Space Systems here [LINK] This episode of the Materialism Podcast is sponsored by Momentum Transfer. Visit their website for more details about their measurement services. [LINK] The Materialism Podcast is sponsored by Materials Today, an Elsevier community dedicated to the creation and sharing of materials science knowledge and experience through their peer-reviewed journals, academic conferences, educational webinars, and more. [LINK] Thanks to Kolobyte and Alphabot for letting us use their music in the show! If you have questions or feedback please send us emails at…

People in this episode

Hosts: Taylor Sparks, Andrew Falkowski

Guest: Kate Winning

Topics covered

  • space textiles
  • astronaut suits
  • materials science
  • high tech manufacturing
  • spacecraft design

Keywords

  • space textiles
  • astronaut suits
  • gold-plated mesh
  • tungsten yarn
  • high tech manufacturing
  • spacesuit gloves

Sponsors

Momentum Transfer, Materials Today

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Oxford Space Systems, Kolobyte, Alphabot

More episodes of Materialism: A Materials Science Podcast

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Materialism: A Materials Science Podcast podcast page.