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NASA made public their new range of prototype spacesuits called the Z2 series. The goal is to create a spacesuit suitable for missions into deep space and planetary walks. NASA presented 3 designs from the new Z2 series and gives us the opportunity to vote for our favorite design until April 15. After that, the spacesuit will be turned into a prototype model by November 2014. The previous spacesuit model presented in 2012 looked pretty futuristic. The new NASA Z2 spacesuits look like they come from another planet. Pun intended.
For these new prototype suits NASA has been working with ILC Dover and Philadelphia University. NASA has worked in the past with ILD Dover for projects like the Apollo program. The plan is to test a spacesuit prototype on the International Space Station in 2017.
The three NASA Z2 spacesuits are called Technology, Biomimicry and Trends In Society. The Biomimicry spacesuit is inspired by the fact that our oceans are very similar to outer space and on the NASA official site they explain that: “Mirroring the bioluminescent qualities of aquatic creatures found at incredible depths, and the scaly skin of fish and reptiles found across the globe, this design reflects the qualities that protect some of Earth’s toughest creatures.”
The Technology suit is inspired by the same things but it has a more science fiction design. The Trends In Society suit draws its inspiration from the world of wearable technology.
NASA Z2 spacesuits – features
The new spacesuits come equipped with 3D laser scanning and three dimensional printing. Each suit will have a unique covering layer with an electroluminescent pattern for an easy identification and they will support a new suitport concept and new airlocks.
So if you have any favorite NASA Z2 spacesuits don’t forget to vote them. You have until the 15th of April.
