SpaceX has unveiled its new spacesuits which, according to Elon Musk’s company, can also be used for trips to the moon and Mars.
According to Pplware, this is another step by SpaceX in creating structures for increasingly ambitious incursions that go beyond Earth’s orbit.
For now, the suits are to be used on Polaris Dawn, the first of three missions, which is due to be launched into orbit in the coming months, but not before the summer.
During the five-day mission, which will be the first commercial spacewalk by astronauts, the crew will carry out SpaceX’s first “extra-vehicular” activity.
It will also be the first time that four astronauts have been exposed to the vacuum of space at the same time.
EVA suit, an evolution of the IVA suit
Space X’s new suit is called EVA and is an evolution of the IVA (intra-vehicular activity) suit currently worn by crews aboard Dragon spaceflight missions.
Developed with mobility in mind, the EVA incorporates new materials, manufacturing processes and new joint designs, which gives it, according to Pplware, “greater flexibility in pressurized scenarios” while maintaining “comfort”.
The 3D-printed helmet incorporates a new visor to reduce glare, as well as a new Heads-Up Display (HUD) and camera that provide information on suit pressure, temperature and humidity.
The helmet has also been improved in terms of pressure valves and seals, making it safer for the crew.
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