The Evolution of Space Suits   

• Space suits are essential for astronauts working in space. In the vacuum beyond Earth, there is no oxygen, air pressure is absent, and temperatures can swing between extreme heat and cold. A space suit must protect astronauts from these harsh conditions with impeccable quality. But how were these garments created in the first place? Early suits were developed by NASA and were based on pressure suits worn by high-altitude pilots. During Project Mercury, the first American human spaceflight program, these suits proved to be durable enough for use inside the spacecraft. But they had to undergo several modifications for extravehicular activities. Engineers added systems that supplied oxygen to the suit through the spacecraft and managed extreme temperature changes in space. The Apollo mission saw the development of portable life-support backpacks that carried water, air, and batteries. After years of effort, engineers created sophisticated suits that allow astronauts to work outside a spacecraft for up to seven hours. Today, the search for an even better space suit continues. Hyundong Lee Staff Reporter junior/1773909290/1613367831