Makes Space Suits Won't Travel Where To Buy
Space exploration has been an important aspect of human history. From the first moon landing in 1969 to the recent Mars rover landing, space exploration has always piqued human interest. However, space exploration is not an easy feat. Astronauts face many challenges while in space, including exposure to radiation, lack of gravity, and the need for specialized equipment, including space suits. Space suits are an integral part of any astronaut's equipment, as they protect them from the harsh conditions in space. However, where can one buy space suits, and what should one consider when buying them?
Types of Space Suits
There are two main types of space suits: the Extravehicular Mobility Unit (EMU) and the Advanced Crew Escape Suit (ACES). The EMU is the primary space suit used for spacewalks or extra-vehicular activity (EVA) while the ACES is primarily used as a backup suit for the crew during transportation, launch, and re-entry. The EMU is a complex, multiple-layered suit that can be adjusted for different atmospheric pressures, temperatures, and measurements. Meanwhile, the ACES is a much simpler suit designed for quick escapes in case of an emergency, such as a fire or loss of pressure.
Where You Can Find Space Suits
Space suits are not commonly sold in stores. They are specialized equipment and can only be purchased by approved organizations or individuals. NASA, for example, does not sell space suits to the general public, but it does sell replicas of its space suits. Moreover, NASA has strict guidelines on who can purchase the suits and for what purpose. The suits are typically only sold to museums or educational institutions for display purposes.
There are also a few private companies that produce space suits for commercial purposes. For example, Orbital Outfitters, founded in 2006 by former NASA spacesuit engineer Rick Tumlinson, produces space suits for suborbital flights in space. The company's space suits are available for purchase by commercial space companies, astronautics programs, and aerospace research organizations. Additionally, ILC Dover, which created the first space suits for NASA's Apollo program, is another company that produces space suits for use in space.
Considerations When Buying Space Suits
When buying space suits, there are several factors to consider. The first is the purpose of the suit. Is it for EVA or backup purposes? The EMU and ACES have different functionalities, so it is important to determine the suit's intended use. Additionally, the buyer should consider the size of the suit. Space suits are custom-made to fit individual astronauts, so it is essential to know the correct measurements for a perfect fit. The buyer should also consider the cost of the suit. Space suits are expensive to produce and can cost millions of dollars. However, the cost will depend on the suit's functionality and features.
Another important factor to consider is safety. Space suits are designed to keep astronauts safe in harsh conditions, so it is crucial to ensure that the suit meets safety regulations. Buyers should research the company producing the suit to ensure that they have a reputable safety record. Moreover, buyers should consider the suit's ability to protect astronauts from radiation and other harmful elements in space.
Conclusion
Space suits are specialized equipment that can only be purchased by approved organizations or individuals. NASA does not sell space suits to the general public, but it does sell replicas of its space suits. Private companies such as Orbital Outfitters and ILC Dover produce space suits for commercial purposes, and buyers should consider the suit's purpose, size, cost, and safety before purchasing. Ultimately, space suits play a crucial role in space exploration by protecting astronauts from the harsh conditions in space.
