| To be able to explore and work in space, humans have to take their environment with them because there is no atmosphere to supply the pressure and oxygen necessary to support life. Without sufficient atmospheric pressure, body fluids will strat to heat up and boil. Without oxygen, we would be unable to breath. |
| Spacesuits serve many function. Today's spacesuits are pressurized, have an oxygen supply, protect the astronauts from micrometeoroid bombardment while spacewalking, and insulate the astronaut from the severe temperature changes experienced in space. |
| During the launch and re-entry, the astronauts wear a partially pressurized suit and a parachute pack. The suit has a helmet, gloves, boots which all serve as protection for the astronaut. Within the suit are bladders that automatically fill with air at reduced cabin pressures. |
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| The parts of a spacesuit |
| In addiction, while working outside of the shuttle during a mission, astronauts wear an Extravehicular Mobility Unit (EMU). This suit has interchangeable parts so it can be assembled to fit different astronauts. This makes the suit more cost effective since it can be reused. To help the astronaut get around freely while performing a spacewalk, a Manned Maneuvering Unit (MMU) can be attached to the EMU. The MMU is a nitrogen propelled backpack that allowed the astronauts to fly with precision. The MMU has a 35mm camera attached to it so that the astronaut can take pictures while in flight. |
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