Artemis Suits: Heavyweights on the Moon

• Artemis suits too heavy, cause pain, abrasions.
• Axiom suits are heavy but best option for Artemis.
• NASA improving suits for flexibility and comfort.

The Artemis program aims to send astronauts back to the Moon, but the suits they will wear are raising concerns. The weight and inflexibility of these suits could make lunar missions physically demanding. Here's a look at the challenges astronauts face, and the efforts being made to create better spacesuits.

Suiting Up For Moonwalks

Modern spacesuits, while improved, present unique challenges. The Axiom spacesuit design, though more flexible, is heavier, weighing several hundred pounds due to its lifesupport system. Former NASA astronaut Kathleen Rubins noted that the Artemis suits are too heavy. Astronauts will experience "extreme physical events" on the lunar surface. Lunar gravity, at 1/6th of Earth's, still poses a significant challenge compared to the microgravity of the International Space Station (ISS). Spacewalks around Earth are already physically taxing, and extensive Moon EVAs will be even more demanding. The weight impacts sleep, with astronauts possibly working eight to nine-hour EVAs daily. There are skin abrasions and joint pain from this weight.

Weight and Weariness

The weight of the suits places immense stress on astronauts. The added flexibility, while intended to facilitate movement, contributes to the overall heaviness. According to Kathleen Rubins, sleep will be severely impacted, and the astronauts will be working long hours in the spacesuits. This situation presents a physical and mental strain on those involved. Mike Barratt, a NASA astronaut and medical doctor, reported that tests revealed issues such as skin abrasions, joint pain, and even minor bone fractures as a direct consequence of the suits' weight. The combination of heavy suits and the lunar environment intensifies the demands. The astronaut must work through strenuous EVAs, potentially leading to compromised performance and heightened risks.

Axiom Suit Advancements

NASA has been trying to improve the Axiom suits. Mike Barratt defended the Axiom suits, seeing them as the best option available for the Artemis astronauts. Despite the current challenges, improvements are underway. These adjustments aim to optimize performance and reduce potential risks for astronauts during lunar missions. The improvements will focus on aspects, like ease of movement and comfort. The agency is looking for ways to adapt to issues regarding bending and movement on the moon. Addressing the physical toll of spacesuits is essential for the Artemis missions' success. Despite its flaws, Axiom suits represent a step forward. The emphasis on continuous enhancement and addressing critical concerns demonstrates NASA's commitment to astronaut well-being.

Addressing Suit Shortcomings

To address the suit shortcomings, further refinements and innovations are under consideration. Rubins noted that the Apollo suits were a considerable burden. She suggested that tools could assist astronauts in getting up after falling, which could slightly reduce mobility limitations and, consequently, weight. Addressing mobility issues remains a core focus. Rubins pointed out the difficulties in bending to pick up rocks and concerns about the center of gravity, stating that astronauts will likely fall over. The emphasis is on balancing flexibility with practicality. The goal is to provide astronauts with equipment that minimizes physical challenges and promotes effective lunar operations. The ultimate aim is to create suits that do not hinder operations and boost safety and astronaut performance.