Unique Capability

A Globally Unique Analogue: The Variable Gravity Suspension System

The Variable Gravity Suspension System (VGSS) is a bespoke platform developed within the Aerospace Medicine and Rehabilitation Laboratory to simulate microgravity and hypogravity conditions on Earth. Using full-body suspension and adjustable offloading, the VGSS recreates the mechanical unloading experienced in space or on the surfaces of the Moon and Mars.This capability allows researchers to study acute physiological responses to altered gravity, including changes in muscle activation, spinal alignment, sensorimotor control, cardiovascular physiology and exercise performance.

Enabling Research and Innovation

The VGSS has been instrumental in supporting major projects, including the pre-flight demonstration of ESA’s European Enhanced Exploration Exercise Device (E4D) and the collection of physiological validation data for the PTSS used by SpaceX in its certification process. It provides an adaptable environment for testing countermeasure devices, wearable technologies, and training protocols under conditions that closely mimic spaceflight challenges.

Commercial and Collaborative Opportunities

As a globally unique facility, the VGSS is open for collaboration and commercial use. Industry partners, space agencies, and technology developers can leverage the system for device evaluation, product validation, and pre-flight testing. Its ability to simulate varying gravity levels makes it an invaluable tool for companies aiming to develop space-certified health technologies or to explore human performance in novel environments.

By integrating the VGSS into both academic research and commercial R&D pipelines, the lab offers partners a low-cost, high-fidelity analogue to accelerate innovation and readiness for flight.