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    NASA’s new spacesuit can withstand over 120°C, removes toxic gases and regulates temperature

    Synopsis

    The new suit will be worn by astronauts on the Artemis lunar exploration program.

    With Elon Musk recently unveiling the first image of a new space suit developed by SpaceX, here's a look at some of the iconic space suits from famous movies. Musk might as well take some notes.
    NASA’s new spacesuit may not look any different from the one used for spacewalks outside the International Space Station recently, but the US space agency says the suit is designed to achieve more complex tasks than its predecessors. The new suit, which will be worn by astronauts on the Artemis lunar exploration program, is called the Exploration Extravehicular Mobility Unit, or xEMU for short.

    While the spacesuit is still under development, its features have been finalised. It’s already being tested underwater, and orbital testing is scheduled for 2023. Take a look:

    1. Can extreme withstand temperatures of -250 degrees Fahrenheit in shade and up to 250 degrees Fahrenheit in the sun.

    2. Life System Support backpack houses the suit’s power and breathable air, removes toxic gases and regulates temperature.

    3. The electronics and plumbing system are miniaturised to accommodate built-in duplicates, making some system failures less of a concern. It could also increase spacewalk duration.


    4. The headset has voice-activated microphones that automatically pick up the voices of astronauts when they speak.

    5. The headset contains a small foam block that allows an astronaut to scratch his nose.

    6. The gloves equipped with are heaters to keep their fingers warm while still allowing dexterity.

    7. Flexible parts of the suit are made from as many as 16 layers of material, which perform different functions.

    8. The suit is designed with inter-changeable parts and could be upgraded environment for the Martian.


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