NASA Puts Its New Spacesuit Design To a Public Vote 127
An anonymous reader writes "NASA, in collaboration with ILC and Philadelphia University, has designed three different cover layers for its new spacesuit prototype, Z-2. NASA will let the public decide which of the three designs will actually be built. Voting is open through April 15, 2014, at 11:59 p.m. EDT. Here are brief descriptions of the three designs: 'The "Biomimicry" design draws from an environment with many parallels to the harshness of space: the world's oceans. Mirroring the bioluminescent qualities of aquatic creatures found at incredible depths, and the scaly skin of fish and reptiles found across the globe, this design reflects the qualities that protect some of Earth's toughest creatures. ... "Technology" pays homage to spacesuit achievements of the past while incorporating subtle elements of the future. By using Luminex wire and light-emitting patches, this design puts a new spin on spacewalking standards such as ways to identify crew members. ... "Trends in Society" is based off of just that: being reflective of what every day clothes may look like in the not too distant future. This suit uses electroluminescent wire and a bright color scheme to mimic the appearance of sportswear and the emerging world of wearable technologies.'"
Because (Score:5, Insightful)
Re: Options? (Score:5, Insightful)
They're all pretty fugly. The Buzz Lightyear looking one is the only one that doesn't make the wearer look stupid.
4th choice... (Score:5, Insightful)
I vote for (Score:4, Insightful)
NASA's 2012 Z-1 Spacesuit design.
Re: Options? (Score:3, Insightful)
They're all pretty fugly. The Buzz Lightyear looking one is the only one that doesn't make the wearer look stupid.
Ugh, I know. When comparing these options to the Z-1 suit at the top, I got this strange feeling like I had when comparing Windows 7 to Windows 8... "Seriously? Why can't we have the one that looks like something designed by a sane group rather than this abortion of an "upgrade"?"
Unfortunately, the astronauts can't simply wear these inside-out to hide the horrible flair spewed all over the outside of the suit.