As we stand on the brink of a new era in space exploration, it’s fascinating to look back at the incredible journey of spacesuit development over the past 60 years. These suits have not only protected astronauts but also enabled them to push the boundaries of space exploration. From the first pressure suits to the latest innovations for the Artemis III mission, spacesuits have evolved to meet the demands of space missions. Let’s dive into the history and future prospects of these vital pieces of technology.
The Early Beginnings: Soviet Union and Project Mercury
In 1931, the first spacesuit was created by the Soviet Union (modern-day Russia); however, the spacesuit became an integral part of space exploration after Russian Astronaut Yuri Gagarin’s famous flight to space in 1961. Ever since then, NASA has been inspired to create their own spacesuits to further space exploration for humanity. For example, in Project Mercury (1958-1963), NASA developed the first American spacesuits with materials like aluminum to protect astronauts from the extreme temperatures in space. Since these spacesuits were not technologically advanced like the spacesuits we have today, these suits were not intended to be utilized for spacewalks but rather they were meant for astronauts to wear inside a spacecraft at all times.
Advancements with Project Gemini
In order to expand our ability to explore space even more, NASA made a significant leap in the spacesuit design for the Gemini Program. This leap allowed astronauts to perform spacewalks and travel outside of their confined spacecraft to perform extravehicular activities (EVAs). To sustain astronauts outside of their spacecraft, the Gemini spacesuits were designed to allow an umbilical cord that provides air to connect to the astronaut’s suits. Despite challenges like rising body temperatures and helmet fogging, these missions proved that astronauts could safely perform critical operations in space, paving the way for lunar exploration.
Moonwalking with Apollo
As humanity developed an increased desire to reach the moon, the Apollo program created even more advanced spacesuits to not only attempt to defeat the Soviet Union in the Space Race but also feed the desire to explore the lunar surface. In the 1960s and 1070s, the Apollo mission had scientists create suits that featured rubber fingertips on gloves and portable life support backpacks, enabling free movement and untethered exploration on the Moon. Furthermore, these suits used a cooling system similar to car radiators, with nylon underwear and water circulation. The iconic image of astronauts like Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin walking on the Moon highlights the success of these suits in enabling human exploration beyond Earth.
Modern Developments: Space Shuttle and ISS
For over 40 years, NASA’s Extravehicular Mobility Unit (EMU) has been the workhorse for spacewalks. First introduced during the Space Shuttle Program in the 1980s, the EMU suits are used on the International Space Station (ISS) for maintenance and upgrades. These suits, weighing about 120 kg, provide a safe breathing environment, maintain body temperature, and protect from harmful radiation and micrometeoroids.
The Next-Generation Spacesuits
In the near future, NASA’s Artemis III mission aims to land the first woman and the next man on the Moon. To further the technological advancement of spacesuits, Axiom Space, chosen by NASA, is developing the Axiom Extravehicular Mobility Unit (AxEMU). This new suit builds on NASA’s xEMU prototype, incorporating the latest technology for enhanced mobility, protection, and efficiency. The AxEMU is designed to fit a wide range of body sizes and will undergo rigorous testing to ensure it meets all technical and safety standards.
Details of The Axiom Extravehicular Mobility Unit (AxEMU)
Design and Development
Axiom Space has been tasked with developing the Axiom Extravehicular Mobility Unit (AxEMU) for NASA’s Artemis III mission. This suit is built upon the foundation laid by NASA’s Exploration Extravehicular Mobility Unit (xEMU) prototype, integrating advancements in technology and astronaut feedback to refine its design. The AxEMU aims to address the limitations of current suits, offering a more versatile and robust solution for lunar exploration.
Key Features
- Enhanced Mobility: The AxEMU features a high-mobility upper torso that provides a greater range of motion, allowing astronauts to move more freely and efficiently. This design is crucial for conducting complex tasks on the lunar surface.
- Advanced Life Support Systems: The suit incorporates state-of-the-art life support systems, including improved oxygen supply, carbon dioxide scrubbing, electrical power, heat dissipation, and ventilation. These systems ensure that astronauts can perform their duties safely and comfortably.
- Liquid Cooling and Ventilation Garment: Underneath the suit, astronauts will wear a liquid cooling and ventilation garment. This system helps regulate body temperature during spacewalks, preventing overheating and ensuring comfort.
- Adjustable Fit: The suit is designed to fit a wide range of body sizes, accommodating at least 90 percent of the US male and female population. The torso can be adjusted in flight to provide a better fit for individual astronauts.
- Durability and Maintenance: The AxEMU is constructed with fewer parts and user-friendly features, minimizing the need for extensive maintenance and reducing the time required for astronaut training.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, the AxEMU and other next-generation spacesuits will support long-term lunar exploration and scientific discovery. These suits are crucial for preparing for future missions to Mars, where astronauts will face even greater challenges. The ongoing advancements in spacesuit technology promise to make space exploration safer and more efficient, opening new possibilities for human presence in space.
Collaboration and Innovation
The development of next-generation spacesuits showcases the importance of collaboration between NASA and commercial partners like Axiom Space and Collins Aerospace. These partnerships leverage industry capabilities and NASA’s expertise to push the boundaries of space technology. By using a commercial services contract model, NASA encourages innovation while maintaining the authority for astronaut training and mission planning.
Conclusion
The evolution of astronaut suits is a testament to human ingenuity and the relentless pursuit of exploration. From the early pressure suits to the advanced designs of today, each generation of spacesuits has played a crucial role in enabling astronauts to venture further into space. As we prepare for the next giant leap with the Artemis program, the development of next-generation spacesuits will continue to be a vital part of our journey, ensuring that we are ready to face the challenges of space exploration and beyond.
Credits
Spacesuit for NASA’s Artemis III Moon Surface Mission Debuts – NASA. 15 Mar. 2023, www.nasa.gov/humans-in-space/spacesuit-for-nasas-artemis-iii-moon-surface-mission-debuts/.
Next-Gen Suit for NASA’s Work for Space Station Missions Debuts – NASA. 19 Apr. 2023, www.nasa.gov/centers-and-facilities/johnson/next-gen-suit-for-nasas-work-for-space-station-missions-debuts/.
“History of Spacesuits.” JAXA Human Spaceflight Technology Directorate, humans-in-space.jaxa.jp/en/life/wear-in-space/history/.
Valladares, Maria. “Suits through the Eras: An Origin Story.” Roundupreads.jsc.nasa.gov, 29 Nov. 2019, roundupreads.jsc.nasa.gov/roundup/1307/Suits%20Through%20the%20Eras%20An%20Origin%20Story.