The design of the space suit by Axiom Space and Prada

Axiom Space and Prada unveiled the design of the Axiom Extravehicular Mobility Unit (AxEMU) spacesuit during the International Astronautical Congress in Milan. The new AxEMU spacesuit not only represents a technological evolution for lunar missions, but also embodies an example of synergy between seemingly distant worlds: that of aerospace engineering and that of luxury fashion. This suit will be used in NASA's Artemis III mission, which will mark humanity's return to the Moon. The collaboration between Axiom Space and Prada, which began with the joint development of the exterior design and materials of the suit, combines creativity and cutting-edge engineering.

 

 

Matt Ondler, President of Axiom Space, explained how the two teams have redefined spacesuit development, creating innovative new solutions and establishing a model for cross-industry collaborations. During development, the publicly shown suit was coated with a dark outer layer to hide the proprietary technology. However, the version that will be used on the lunar surface will be made of a white material, designed to reflect heat and protect astronauts from extreme temperatures and lunar dust.

 

 

The AxEMU program is an example of how the space industry is engaging unconventional partnerships to enhance space exploration capabilities. Since its first assignment by NASA in 2022, Axiom Space has collaborated with experts in various fields to develop this next-generation suit.

The AxEMU suit offers greater flexibility, performance and safety than previous models, and is designed to withstand the extreme conditions of the lunar south pole. The suit will be able to withstand extreme temperatures for at least two hours in permanently shaded areas and will allow astronauts to perform spacewalks for up to eight hours.

 

 

Axiom Space has iteratively improved the AxEMU suit over the past two years, with tests and simulations conducted at advanced facilities such as those at Axiom Space, SpaceX and NASA. These tests include underwater simulations and reduced gravity tests. The suit is now approaching the final stage of development and will face further testing before the Artemis III mission.

 

The Prada Group, known for its cutting-edge style, brought its expertise in fashion and high-quality materials to this project, helping to create a suit that not only protects, but also inspires the future of space exploration. Lorenzo Bertelli, Chief Marketing Officer of the Prada Group, emphasized that the project reflects the spirit of the Prada brand and the vision of its founders. Prada contributed to the project with its expertise in high-performance materials and innovative sewing techniques, offering advanced solutions that ensure comfort and protection for astronauts.