NASA has taken the unusual step of asking the American public to help select their next space suit design, which will be labelled the Z-2. The public will be able to vote between three different prototypes, each of which has distinct functional attributes. Voters can cast their vote until April 15th, 2014.
One proposal called 'Trends in Society' aims to reflect what regular clothes may look like in the future. This design borrows from elements of athletic clothing, and adopts futuristic glowing trim for style, adding a bit of oomph to the space suit design.
The 'Technology' proposal pays homage to space gear of the past while also incorporating subtle elements of future space suit designs. Light-emitting patches will make it easier to identify crew members, while collapsing pleats allow for extra mobility.
Finally, the 'Biomimicry' space suit design borrows from the bio-luminescent qualities of marine creatures. The use of electro-luminescent wire on the upper torso adds a distinct "deep sea" feeling.
Photo Credits: designboom, nasa.gov
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