The concept of development takes new heights as NASA
finishes open voting on its next generation of space suits. In 2012 NASA
released the Z-1 design which looks a little like Buzz Lightyear’s outfit (1).
The design was voted on by 200,000 people from around the world. It blends the
old features with new features to create greater levels of functionality. Developers
are not ready to move to infinity and beyond but are making a small step in that
direction.
The public could choose between the Biomimicry,
Technology, and Trends in Society designs (2). The Z-2 will be the next
generation to be bested around 2020. Tests will be conducted to Neural Buoyancy
Laboratory (NBL). The suits will be better than ones developed in the past and
contain features like pressurization, breathable atmospheres, regulate carbon
dioxide, and controlled temperature and waste (3).
In 2013 the ILC, the primary suit vendor, won $4.4
million contract to partner with Philadelphia University to develop, design and
test the suit (4).
The goal is to move into the next level
of development for Mars missions and ensure that the suits are safer, economic,
and extremely functional. The hope is to develop a stronger space program.
Why is this important? Space is still the next
frontier. Not much has changed from Armstrong’s moon landing. It is still a
step for mankind. Modern science is
moving into greater detail here on Earth as well as in outer space. Telescopes,
private investments, interstellar mapping, and other developments in technology
are making space travel an important function of scientific effort. When we someday
make our way out there we may find things that may be useful for further
science and development.
You may see the designs here http://jscfeatures.jsc.nasa.gov/z2/
