SCIENCE

Astronauts' New Moon Outfit: A Prada & Axiom Collaboration

Milan, ItalySat Oct 19 2024
Ever thought about what astronauts wear when they step onto the moon? Well, it's not just any old outfit. Axiom Space and Prada have teamed up to design a new spacesuit for NASA’s Artemis III mission. This isn't your usual fashion show! These suits need to keep astronauts safe, comfy, and ready for action. Think of it like creating a superhero costume, but for real-life explorers! At the International Astronautical Congress in Milan, Italy, they showed off the first flight design of the Axiom Extravehicular Mobility Unit (AxEMU) spacesuit. This isn’t just any spacesuit. It’s got major upgrades in safety, mobility, and performance. The goal? To help astronauts do their jobs better while facing the moon’s extreme conditions. Temperatures on the moon can swing from super hot to freezing cold. Plus, astronauts need protection from radiation and space pressure. The new suit has a special white material that reflects heat, keeping astronauts cool and safe from lunar dust. Prada’s expertise in materials and production helped make this possible. The collaboration between Axiom and Prada is a big deal. It shows how working together across different industries can lead to amazing innovations. Right now, the suit is in its final development stage. It’ll be tested underwater, with lunar vehicles, and go through critical reviews before astronauts use it on the moon. Exciting times ahead for space exploration!

questions

    What specific materials have been incorporated by Prada to address lunar conditions?
    Will the lunar surface become the newest runway for haute couture?
    How effectively will the materials used by Prada protect astronauts against harsh lunar environments?

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