Space & Astronomy

Elon Musk unveils futuristic SpaceX spacesuit

By T.K. Randall
August 24, 2017

Image: Elon Musk at the SpaceX CRS-8 post-launch press conference
Credit: Kim Shiflett / (PD) NASA The impressive looking suit was revealed yesterday via an Instagram post by CEO Elon Musk who noted that it was a proper working prototype, not simply a model or artist's mockup.

The suit, which is shown only from the waist up, exhibits a streamlined, black and white aesthetic that looks quite a bit different to any of the other spacesuit designs currently in use.

A post shared by Elon Musk (@elonmusk) on Aug 23, 2017 at 12:59am PDT

"First picture of SpaceX spacesuit," Musk wrote. "More in days to follow. Worth noting that this actually works (not a mockup). Already tested to double vacuum pressure.""Was incredibly hard to balance aesthetics and function. Easy to do either separately."

While the new suit won't be used during spacewalks, it will be worn by astronauts to protect them from any loss of cabin pressure during flights.

Its first proper use will be on the upcoming SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule when it begins flying astronauts to the International Space Station within the next couple of years.

Source: National Geographic

Tags: SpaceX, Spacesuit