NASA astronauts have a closet full of suits, but nothing to wear for potential future missions. Engineers at the Johnson Space Center are working to develop a new kind of spacesuit, one for the astronauts who will potentially walk on Mars or spend time in deep space. In its more than 50-year history, the agency has designed only a limited collection of outer space wear.
For its Mars line, engineers are speaking with astronauts aboard the International Space Station to find out what attire works and doesn't work while in orbit.
"We want to make sure we're addressing the concerns of our current customer base," said Amy Ross, spacesuit engineer.
Despite efforts to keep things light, the current prototype would be tough to wear on Earth, as it tips the scales at nearly 160 pounds.
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