
Japanese designer is developing a new line of space suits.
A Japanese designer, Yohji Yamamoto, and Adidas’ label Y-3 are forming a partnership to provide designer apparel to astronauts for space travel, well sort of. According to CNN, the team is creating a new apparel line that will be tailored for the astronauts’ comfort during long space flights.
The prototypes of the new apparel were shown at the Spaceport America in New Mexico, which is home to Virgin Galactic’s Gateway to Space terminal. Using materials such as Nomex, which is a material manufactured from strong synthetic fibers and is heat resistant, the new space suits will emphasize comfort in their design.
The Nomex is similar to Kelvar, used in bullet-proof vests, but is a good deal more flexible. The suits are designed to support a pilot in the sitting position on long flights, while remaining comfortable. The hope is to make them less bulky and hard to maneuver around, and more practical during performing tasks in space.
The prototype boot has leather content and provides extra grip and shock absorption through special out-soles and heel inserts. The plan is for astronauts to evaluate the practicality and comfort of the new apparel as a part of Virgin Galactic’s flight test program.
Adidas’ Y-3 will also be designing apparel for Virgin Galactic’s passengers, as the company plans to take travelers to the edge of space. It is expected the grounds crew and other support personnel will be wearing similarly-designed apparel as well.
After a setback in 2014, Virgin Galactic is moving forward with its project of providing sub-orbital flights for space tourists and plans next month to unveil an all new transport, called SpaceShip Two. Reports say the company is asking a $250,000 deposit for anyone interest in taking the first flights on the company’s shuttle.
Leave a Reply