NASA has revealed the Z-2 spacesuit, the newest prototype in the organisation’s Z-series of next-generation spacesuits. The Z-2 succeeds the Z-1 into the next steps of approaching a final design fit for service. In succeeding the Z-1, the Z-2 pass a number of NASA’s milestones, which are listed below.
- First surface-specific planetary mobility suit to be tested in full vacuum
- First use of 3D human laser scans and 3D-printed hardware for suit development and sizing
- Most advanced use of impact resistant composite structures on a suit upper and lower torso system
- First integration of the suit-port concept with a hard upper torso suit structure
- Most conformal and re-sizeable hard upper torso suit built to date
In light of the Z-2’s reveal and the positive response of the Z-1, NASA has opened up a public vote for you to decide which out of three cosmetic designs will be the spacesuits new appearance. Each design was created with the intent of protecting the suit, as well as highlighting certain mobility features to help in the testing of the Z-2.
The “Biomimicry” design (left) was inspired by the world’s oceans, and mirrors the bioluminescent traits of certain deep-sea creatures. The design specifically includes various pleats at the shoulder, elbow, hip, knee, and also includes electroluminescent wire across the torse, which glows in the dark.
The “Technology” design (center) is said to pay homage to previous spacesuit achievements whilst also incorporating elements of the future. Using Luminex wire and light-emitting patches, this design is said to put a spin on the standards of spacewalking, such as using different colors to identify crew members. Similar to the Biomimicry design, the Technology design incorporates electroluminescent wire and patches across the upper and lower torso, along with exposed rotating bearings, collapsible pleats for movement and mobility, and abrasion-resistant panels on the lower torso.
Finally, the “Trends in Society” design (right) is meant to envision what every-day fashion may look like in the near future. Also using electroluminescent wire like the other designs, the Trends in Society design features a bright color scheme, said to mimic the appearance of sportswear and wearable technologies. This design specifically includes gore pleats with contrast stitching to highlight mobility, an exposed bearing at the hip, and electroluminescent wire and patches of varying styles across the torso.
You can vote for whichever design you like by visiting the dedicated website for the Z-2 here, where you will also find an FAQ. The fully built version of the Z-2 is slated to drop this coming November.
Source: NASA.gov.