4 min read
The next-generation spacesuit for NASA's Artemis III mission continues to advance by passing a contractor-led technical review, as the agency prepares to send humans to the Moon's South Pole for the first time. Testing is also underway for the new suits, built by Axiom Space, with NASA astronauts and spacesuit engineers recently simulating surface operations and tasks underwater to demonstrate safety and mobility.
The AxEMU (Axiom Extravehicular Mobility Unit), is designed to give astronauts increased flexibility and improved mobility for moonwalking, including bending down to collect geology samples and perform a variety of scientific tasks. The suit features increased sizing options and adjustability to fit a wider range of crew members. It incorporates advanced life-support systems and enhanced protection to withstand the harsh lunar environment. Axiom Space is also developing specialized tools and equipment for work on the lunar surface, allowing astronauts to more easily gather geology samples.
Now that Axiom Space has completed their technical review of the AxEMU, NASA will evaluate whether the spacesuit is ready for the agency's Artemis III mission that will return American astronauts to the Moon. A NASA-led critical design sync review, which is an agency-required technical evaluation, will confirm that the design's hardware and systems are on track for final testing and delivery. In parallel, Axiom Space has begun receiving parts for the first flight unit, which will be assembled later this spring.
