Safety Analysis of Spacesuit Design for Martian Surface

Paper number

IAC-16,A5,IP,5,x33017

Coauthor

Mr. Carlos Manuel Entrena Utrilla, International Space University (ISU), Spain

Coauthor

Ms. Laura Bettiol, Space Generation Advisory Council (SGAC), Italy

Coauthor

Ms. Jessica Piness, University of Southern Mississippi, United States

Coauthor

Mr. Istvan Revesz, Space Generation Advisory Council (SGAC), Australia

Coauthor

Mrs. Funmilola Oluwafemi, National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), Abuja, Nigeria

Coauthor

Mr. Joao Lousada, DLR (German Aerospace Center), Germany

Year

2016

Abstract

Mars is often seen as the next logical step in human exploration of the Solar System. This interest in Mars is linked with its resources and environment, which could help sustain long term human presence, and answer the crucial question, “Can life arise outside our planet?”. In the past, Mars presented environmental conditions that might have been able to support life as known on earth, including liquid water and a dense atmosphere. However, the evolution of Mars has rendered its surface environment inhospitable for all currently known life forms. 
Extravehicular Activities (EVAs) will play a crucial role in any human Mars mission, not only to achieve scientific goals, but also to help maintain the mission facilities and hardware.  The most critical piece of equipment in an EVA is the spacesuit. Current spacesuit designs are restrictive in terms of mobility and operability, and are designed to work only in micro-gravity environments. Therefore, designing a spacesuit capable of shielding the astronauts from the harsh environment of Mars, and allowing the execution of frequent, physically-demanding EVAs is critical for future Mars exploration missions. 
In this paper, the major hazards associated with spacesuit operations on the Martian surface are investigated. This includes definition of the associated risks, and identification of procedures, technologies, and countermeasures that can reduce these risks. Hazards are studied with a focus on the different subsystems and equipment of a spacesuit. These include thermal and pressure control, life support, power control and distribution as well as radiation protection. Human factors such as mobility and operability of the suit are also discussed.

Abstract document

IAC-16,A5,IP,5,x33017.brief.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-16,A5,IP,5,x33017.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

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