Collins Aerospace, a leading private company responsible for designing spacesuits for astronauts outside the International Space Station (ISS), has achieved a significant milestone in the development of their spacesuit design. The company recently conducted a successful test of their spacesuit aboard a commercial microgravity flight, demonstrating its ability to function in zero gravity. This achievement paves the way for Collins Aerospace to move forward towards the critical design review phase.
The decision to outsource the design of new spacesuits to Collins Aerospace came after NASA spent 15 years attempting to develop their own suits. The new Collins Aerospace spacesuit boasts several improvements over the current Extravehicular Mobility Units used by NASA astronauts. It is lighter in weight and has reduced volume, making it more comfortable and maneuverable for astronauts. Additionally, the suit can be easily modified to accommodate changing mission requirements and can fit a wider range of body types, unlike the older suits that are based on outdated designs.
During the test aboard the microgravity flight, the plane executed various maneuvers to induce weightlessness, allowing the wearer of the prototype spacesuit to assess its performance under such conditions. The video footage captured during the test shows astronauts navigating through doors in zero gravity, demonstrating the suit’s capability to enable movement and mobility in space.
Moving forward, Collins Aerospace plans to subject the spacesuit to further tests to evaluate its performance in different environments. One such test will involve placing the suit in a vacuum chamber to simulate the conditions of space. This will enable engineers to assess how the suit functions in the vacuum of space, where there is no atmospheric pressure. Additionally, a test will be conducted at NASA’s Neutral Buoyancy Lab in Texas, where the suit will be submerged under 40 feet of water to simulate microgravity experienced during spacewalks.
The successful completion of these tests will bring Collins Aerospace one step closer to finalizing the design of their spacesuit and obtaining approval during the critical design review. This review is a crucial step in the development process as it ensures that the suit meets all necessary requirements and specifications for use in space.
Collins Aerospace’s innovative spacesuit design represents a significant advancement in the field of space exploration. With its improved functionality, comfort, and versatility, the suit has the potential to revolutionize extravehicular activities and enhance the overall astronaut experience during missions outside the ISS. As NASA continues to push the boundaries of human space exploration, collaborations with private companies like Collins Aerospace play a vital role in driving innovation and progress in spacesuit technology.
The successful completion of these tests not only brings Collins Aerospace closer to their goal but also signifies a significant milestone for the future of spacesuit design. As we venture further into space and embark on ambitious missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond, the development of advanced spacesuit technology is crucial to ensure the safety and success of astronauts. With Collins Aerospace at the forefront of this endeavor, we can look forward to a new era of spacesuit design that will enable astronauts to explore the cosmos with greater ease and efficiency.