Prada and Axiom Space unveiled the design of the Axion Extravehicular Mobility Unit (AxEMU) at the International Astronautical Congress in Milan, which is set to be used for NASA’s Artemis ⅠⅠⅠ mission. This collaboration creates a history by amalgamating fusion and aerospace engineering. This shows creative design and technical expertise can level up the next generation of space exploration gear. This state-of-the-art suit spacesuit is designed for the astronauts heading to the lunar in 2026.
The chief marketing officer of Prada, Lorenzo Bertelli claimed that the brand has been talking about the collaboration even before the Covid-19 pandemic. The collaboration has focused on the outer-layer materials of the spacesuit, which combines high-performance textile knowledge with advanced engineering.
Earlier to conceal proprietary technology, a dark cover layer was displayed. Anyhow, the actual lunar spacesuit will feature a white outer layer, that reflects heat and protects astronauts from extreme temperatures and lunar dust.
NASA has chosen Prada to create a spacesuit long back in June 2022. Since then the company has been working on it and revealed the prototype of the AxEMU spacesuit in March. Axiom Space said that the Prada engineers will join the team in the design process. The team will develop solutions for materials and design features to stave off the space and lunar environments.
Lorenzo Bertelli states that their new plan aligns with Prada’s values. ‘Going beyond the boundaries is the testimonial of the Prada brand’s spirit’. ‘This is just a stepping stone in our collaboration with Axiom Space’, he added. Prada’s involvement was beyond the design, they were ready to show its material knowledge, sewing techniques, and advanced production process to ensure the suit satisfies the comfortability and is strong enough for the lunar conditions.
The AxEMU program exemplifies how public and private companies can collaborate. Axiom has used NASA’s $228 million Artemis contract to seek knowledge from different sources. This spacesuit is designed for NASA’s Artemis ⅠⅠⅠ mission, including the first woman and first person of color to ever step on the moon.
By combining both functionality and aesthetics, Prada and Axiom Space have created a spacesuit that is well-suited for lunar exploration and redefines the chances of commercial space innovation. The unisex suit is adaptable to different sizes which was a breakthrough in space apparel.
The contemporary suit which was designed by SpaceX is highly innovative and it shows a tribute to the 50 years old classic design which was worn by Apollo astronauts during their lunar exploration. The outer layer of the suit is mostly white in order to reflect heat and withstand extreme temperatures of the lunar South Pole.
During the shuttle program, astronauts wore black-and-white spacesuits, which were very different from the bright orange ‘pumpkin suits’. SpaceX is also designing pressurized spacesuits for the Polaris program, which will enable spacewalks. This is the first time a private company is organizing a spacewalk.
But Prada replaced white with sleek grey and red strips which shows the brand’s signature style. This look is somewhat similar to the Luna Rossa yacht from America’s Cup.
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