NASA Glenn’s capability in space flight software, power and communications is being used to develop the Communications, Avionics, and Information (CAI) and Power Subsystems for the next generation space suit. This effort supports the Constellation Program’s Extra-Vehicular Activities (EVA) Systems Project, which is led by Johnson Space Center and supported by Glenn, industry and academia.

Venturing outside a spacecraft to conduct assembly, maintenance or emergency repairs is one of the most important activities that an astronaut performs. It is also one of the most dangerous. Astronauts must wear special clothing when executing EVA to protect them from the harsh environment of space.

The purpose of the EVA Systems Project is to build a new space suit architecture that can be upgraded to meet future exploration mission requirements. The space suits currently used for Space Shuttle and International Space Station missions each weigh approximately 300 lbs. and require 24 hours of preparation and maintenance time for every 8-hour period of EVA. Advancements over the current suit design are needed to provide improved functionality, reliability and productivity, while decreasing mass, astronaut workload and operating costs.

CAI Subsystems

Glenn is investigating new CAI Subsystems that allow transmission and reception of voice and data communications among crew members, mission control and ground operations personnel. Subsystems under consideration include computer and in-helmet electronic displays that provide data and procedures to the crew.

Suit avionics systems must manage and conserve the limited supply of consumable
resources, such as oxygen. Glenn is now developing a tool called the Portable Unit for Metabolic Analysis (PUMA), which measures the metabolic rate of crew members during various EVA activities and allows researchers to evaluate the data.

Various studies are underway at Glenn to determine the requirements of more autonomous information systems that will allow the astronauts to manage their own work more efficiently.

To support an increase in the frequency and duration of EVAs for future exploration missions, power systems with long run-time and fast recharge are necessary to ensure efficient performance. The power system needs advanced lightweight energy storage systems and must be capable of safely operating in the harsh environments of space by tolerating radiation, dust and large temperature variations.