New Flexible Shielding Material Could Transform Spacecraft Design
New Flexible Shielding Material Could Transform Spacecraft Design  
Podcast: Bedtime Astronomy
Published On: Mon May 18 2026
Description: Researchers at the Korea Institute of Science and Technology have created a composite film thinner than a human hair that blocks both electromagnetic waves and neutron radiation.Built from carbon and boron nitride nanotubes in a polymer matrix, the material remains elastic across extreme temperatures and can be shaped via 3D printing.By reducing weight and structural complexity, it offers a scalable solution for aerospace, medical, and nuclear applications—pointing toward flexible shielding for next-generation spacecraft and wearable protection.Thank you for listening to Bedtime Astronomy — your guide to the cosmos. New episodes on space exploration, NASA missions & the latest astronomy breakthroughs.This episode includes AI-generated content.