The next generation of spacesuits will be designed to protect astronauts during spacewalks outside the International Space Station and walk across the lunar surface during the Artemis landings.
Neither of the two companies had any photos or renders to share.
It is a landmark decision that marks the beginning of a years-long development phase and will lead to its first demonstration missions outside the International Space Station in the mid-2020s. The first lunar test for the next-gen suits could be the Artemis III Moon landing mission.
To that end, the deals represent a major part of NASA's efforts to leverage the private space industry to return astronauts to the Moon. The agency has faced many challenges while developing its own spacesuit.
By partnering with industry, we are able to advance the necessary technology to keep Americans on a path of successful discovery on the International Space Station and as we set our sights on exploring the lunar surface.
The total value of the contract is $3.5 billion if all options are exercised. The agency did not reveal how much the individual values of the suit awards are, figures that will be released by the end of the month.
The space agency didn't dictate whether the companies should design two separate suits, as the required life support systems will likely be quite similar.
Pressure garments, fit, and flexibility requirements are different between the space station and the lunar surface.
The company is aiming for a suit that resembles ruggedized extreme sports outerwear, but not the kind of bulky suits that almost mimic an entire.
The suits have to fit a wide range of sizes. Fit has been an issue for astronauts in the past, especially when it comes to women. NASA wants to put the first woman on the Moon as part of its Artemis missions.
According to Burbank, the suit can be 888-282-0465 888-282-0465 888-282-0465 888-282-0465 888-282-0465 in 30 minutes.
Whether either of the two companies can execute on these ambitious timelines to build a spacesuit that is not only safer but more flexible remains to be seen. NASA has already been plagued by setbacks and technological challenges.
The private space industry may be able to come up with a suit that is worthy of the 21st century.
NASA has partnerships with industry for new spacewalking.
Spacesuits keep filling up with water.
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