What's the deal with spacesuits for the Moon? Will they be ready in time?
Summary
NASA is working on new spacesuits needed for astronauts to explore the Moon, but their development has faced delays and challenges. A recent government report says the spacesuits might not be ready before 2031, which is later than NASA’s goal of landing humans on the Moon in 2028.Key Facts
- NASA has been trying to develop next-generation lunar spacesuits for decades with limited success.
- In 2022, NASA awarded contracts to two companies, Axiom Space and Collins Aerospace, to develop the suits.
- Collins Aerospace later dropped out, leaving Axiom as the only contractor working on the new spacesuits.
- The loss of Collins created a risk for NASA because it reduced competition and backup options.
- The report suggests Axiom’s spacesuits may not be ready for testing on Artemis missions until 2031.
- Axiom Space, a newer company, has invested heavily and hired staff to meet NASA’s needs despite no guaranteed profits.
- NASA hopes to return astronauts to the Moon in 2028 but may have to use current spacesuits if new ones are not ready.
- NASA’s leader expressed confidence the spacesuits will be ready by the 2028 Moon landing date.
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