Exotrajes

Exotrajes, commonly referred to as spacesuits, are specialized garments designed to keep humans alive and able to work in space or other extreme environments. They provide life support, environmental protection, and mobility in vacuum, extreme temperatures, and radiation. They regulate suit pressure, supply breathable oxygen, remove carbon dioxide, control temperature, and shield wearers from micrometeoroids and solar radiation. They also integrally include communications and visual systems.

A typical exotraje comprises a pressurized inner garment (bladder), thermal and cooling layers, mobility joints, a helmet with visor, a glove system, and a Primary Life Support System (PLSS) backpack that supplies oxygen, power, cooling, and waste management. The suit includes communications equipment, a battery, and protective coatings. Mobility is provided by joints and sometimes actuators; glove design can limit dexterity, requiring training.

Exotrajes are used in two main contexts: extravehicular activity (EVA) suits worn outside spacecraft or on planetary surfaces, and intravehicular activity (IVA) suits worn inside. Notable examples include NASA's Extravehicular Mobility Unit (EMU) and the Russian Orlan suit; NASA is developing the xEMU for Artemis to improve mobility, fit, and maintenance.

Historically, exotraje development evolved from Apollo-era A7L-style ensembles toward more modular and reliable systems. Modern suits emphasize safer life support, greater mobility, and longer mission endurance. Tests are conducted in vacuum chambers and thermal-vacuum facilities to validate performance, reliability, and seal integrity.

Looking ahead, research targets lighter materials, more flexible joints, advanced gloves, and integrated robotics or exoskeletal assistance. The goal is to extend EVA duration, reduce suit weight, and enable more extensive exploration of the Moon, Mars, and other destinations while maintaining safety.