Axiom Space's Advanced Spacesuit Experiences Initial Testing in NASA's Buoyancy Pool Facility with Astronaut Crew Members
The Axiom Extravehicular Mobility Unit (AxEMU), a spacesuit developed by Axiom Space, is making significant strides in the realm of lunar exploration. The spacesuit, designed for the Artemis III mission to the Moon's south pole, is currently undergoing rigorous testing to ensure it provides increased flexibility, mobility, and safety capabilities.
The AxEMU has already completed its first three crewed tests in the Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory (NBL), one of the world's largest indoor pools used for astronaut training and mission preparation. This facility allows astronauts to simulate lunar surface tasks in partial gravity or spacewalks in zero gravity.
Axiom Space's astronaut and Chief Technology Officer recently tested the AxEMU in the NBL, evaluating its operations and capabilities. The spacesuit's communications, breathing, and cooling systems were put to the test in the pool, demonstrating their effectiveness.
The spacesuit has also undergone multiple field evaluations using lunar tools, further enhancing its suitability for lunar exploration. It is being integrated with Lunar Terrain Vehicles (LTVs), a crucial component for lunar missions.
The EVA program team at Axiom Space has conducted 23 tests in NASA's Active Response Gravity Offload System (ARGOS), and the AxEMU has demonstrated that it exceeds its mission requirements in lunar regolith challenge testing. This is a significant achievement, as the spacesuit must be able to withstand the unique challenges posed by the lunar environment.
The AxEMU was initially tested with astronaut Wakata, followed by NASA spacesuit engineers Kristine Davis and Richard Rhodes. These tests were aimed at familiarising the NBL divers with the AxEMU's operations and support systems.
The AxEMU is scheduled to enter the Critical Design Review (CDR) later this year, a crucial step in the development process. The Artemis III mission, developed by NASA, aims to return astronauts to the Moon's south pole, and the AxEMU will play a vital role in this mission.
Axiom Space continues to focus on the development of the next-generation spacesuit for the Artemis III mission, ensuring that it meets the highest standards of safety and performance. The advancements made so far in the AxEMU's development are a testament to Axiom Space's commitment to pushing the boundaries of space exploration.
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