New Space Suits for NASA

NASA begins to develop new gear for astronauts

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An astronaut in space in an older version of the NASA space suit. (Photo: NASA)

April 2007

Before astronauts can go into space, they have to have the right suit. That's why NASA scientists are developing a new kind of space suit—lighter and more flexible than before.

These new space suits will have lots of mobility for the astronauts, but will not need much maintenance. NASA wants the suits to include new technology that can help astronauts be safe in outer space.

Right now, the American space suit weights about 275 pounds and is big and bulky. But the suit is also easy to work in for long periods of time. The Russian space suit is less complicated, but is used only a few times and then gets thrown away.

"Finding the right balance is always going to be a challenge," said long-time astronaut Jeff Williams. Williams has worn both type of suits.

Space suits protect astronauts from both extreme heat and freezing temperatures. They carry life-packs with oxygen for the astronauts. They also shield astronauts from radiation, or particles that send out harmful rays.

Without these suits, astronauts wouldn't be able to explore space. That's why Williams thinks NASA has to make the new space suit a top priority.

"In the end," Williams said, "we'll be relying on these suits to go and do our exploration."

The Design

Scientists are using computers to design the new suits. This allows them to change the again and again, and to even test the design out before actually making anything.

"There's a lot more capable tools and technology to get the job done—a lot more knowledge, as well," said Joe Kosmo. Kosmo helped design, develop, and test suits during the Mercury, Gemini, Apollo, Skylab, and shuttle periods.

These new space suits will be much lighter and use a new kind of composite material. They also will have a smaller life support backpack, thanks to tiny electronics.

NASA hopes to have the first prototypes in development by 2010 and certify the suit by 2012. This will be in time for the launch of the Orion spaceship in 2014.

Tiffany Chaparro is a contributing writer for Scholastic News Online.

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