The next generation of space suits

The next generation of suit technologies is being developed by a team of NASA's experts. The space suits have been designed to aid in deep space exploration by incorporating parts of advanced technologies such as carbon dioxide removal and water evaporation systems. They have been made by keeping in mind the space crew's need to work more efficiently and safely, NASA announced last month.

Mobility and fit of a pressurized space suits have been highly regarded in keeping the astronauts productive, so NASA's experts designed a new generation of space-walking suits empowered with a regenerable carbon dioxide removal and water evaporation systems that have proven highly efficient in providing individuals with breathing air and temperature regulation.

The EMU suit type pictured above on the left, the PXS (advanced prototype) in the middle and the Z-2 on the right. Image credit: NASA

Some of the newly designed suits include the Extravehicular Mobility Unit (EMU) operation suit on ISS, the Prototype exploration suit (PXS) and the Z-2 advanced prototype shown on the image above.

For example the Z-2 suit is designed to maximize astronauts productivity on a planetary surface. It is light weight, highly durable suit capable of withstanding long missions in highly unwelcome environments such as the one found on Mars while the PXS type of space suit is focused on improving suit fit and performance while at the same time keeping the required additional equipment for long term missions to low-Earth orbit and beyond minimal.

Z-2 space suit. Credit: NASA

Z-2 space suit rear view. Credit: NASA

The PXS suit design was based on a new approach of incorporating sizing feature that could one day be 3-D printed on-orbit, in transit, or on Mars to achieve a customized fit for any crew member or change the orientation of bearings to optimize EVA mobility for different mission phases.

Featured image: The Z-2 space suit. Image credit: NASA