The environment on Mars presents many unique challenges when designing a space suit for use during human exploration. These include a micro-vacuum atmosphere of mostly carbon dioxide, wide temperature fluctuations, and physical hazards ranging from dust storms to micrometeoroids and radiation. Previous NASA suits were analyzed prior to choosing new materials for a Mars suit, using Ashby criteria where applicable, and specific commercial information where necessary. Liquid cooling and ventilation, pressure, and thermomechanical garments were developed, using multiple materials and layers in each. Further materials choices were made for bearing materials to allow movement while ensuring sealing integrity of the suit. The overall mass for the design (without life support systems) is just less than 21 kg, significantly (and necessarily) less than earlier designs for lunar and orbital applications.
Material Choices for Mars
Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance ; 13 , 2 ; 208-217
2004
10 Seiten, 27 Quellen
Article (Journal)
English
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