Designed for the “private astronaut”, the space suit is the result of a collaboration with Virgin Galactic on a line of space wear and footwear that is functional, stylish and safe for use on commercial space travel.
Sportswear manufacturer Under Armour has unveiled the first ever commercial space suit engineered for the masses, as part of its collaboration with Richard Branson’s Virgin Galactic.
Earlier this year, Under Armour announced that it will be the official Technical Spacewear Partner for Virgin Galactica for the latter’s aim to make space travel a possibility for the masses.
Designed for the “private astronaut”, the space suit is one in a line of space wear and footwear that is functional, stylish and safe for use on commercial space travel.
According to Under Armour, the space suit, which is a deep space blue, with atmospheric light blue elements and pops of gold throughout, was inspired by an image of the sun in space, casting its rays on Earth. The suit’s lining is cooling, quick-drying and smooth to ensure the future astronaut’s comfort in the different temperatures that they may encounter.
The suit also has a base layer that acts as a “second skin” to the body which helps to enhance performance and blood flow during the high and zero gravity portions of the space flight. Other elements of the suit have been specially tested in spaceflight-like environments. The suit even has special pockets to keep personal items.
Under Armour said that the spacesuits have undergone rigorous testing with pilots, spaceship engineers, medical officers, astronaut instructors and the like, to ensure its suitability for in-flight environments.
Meanwhile, the footwear uses precision fit technology to fit the exact shape of the foot, it is also cushioned and flame-retardant and is designed to be snag-proof while on zero gravity travel.
Virgin Galactic has said that 600 people have put down deposits for their tickets to space, which are USD250,000 per person. It expects to begin commercially flying tourists to space in 2020.
Visit Under Armour’s website here and Virgin Galactic’ website here for further information.
(Photos: Respective brands)