China's first batch of extravehicular spacesuits for its space station has set a record for their expected lifespan and continues to perform reliably after the Shenzhou-19 crew completed their third extravehicular activity (EVA) on Friday.These spacesuits, named Feitian, which means "flying into space," have exceeded the original design life of "15 uses within 3 years," according to the China Astronaut Research and Training Center."One of the spacesuits has been used up to 17 times," said Liu Dongyue from the center.The Feitian spacesuits are the most important piece of equipment for spacewalk tasks.
In addition to all the functions of an intravehicular spacesuit, it includes features such as radiation protection, heat insulation, micrometeorite shielding and ultraviolet protection, while ensuring reliable performance and telemetry communication.
Furthermore, the suit is equipped with a liquid cooling system to maintain thermal balance and a backpack-style life support system.
These functions provide astronauts with appropriate atmospheric pressure, sufficient oxygen, and optimal temperature and humidity during their extravehicular activities."The extravehicular spacesuit is more intricate than the spacesuit worn inside the spacecraft.
It has more layers to meet the demands of spacewalks.
In addition to ensuring a proper pressure differential, which helps astronauts survive in space, the suit also includes a system to regulate temperature effectively," said Yang Yuguang, chair of the Space Transportation Committee of the International Astronautical Federation.The second-generation Feitian extravehicular spacesuit, currently worn by Chinese astronauts, weighs about 130 kilograms and costs around 30 million yuan (about $4.14 million) per suit.
During the Shenzhou-19 crew's third spacewalk, two astronauts spent over seven hours outside the space station, carrying out a series of tasks. Given the extended duration and intense physical demands of extravehicular missions, the spacesuit is equipped with built-in provisions for food and water to sustain astronauts' energy throughout their tasks."The astronaut helmet is equipped with a drinking tube on one side, allowing them to drink when they're thirsty.
On the other side, there is a compartment for food energy bars, tailored to the mission's requirements.
These provisions are typically designed to provide high-calorie, high-energy sustenance to help the astronauts maintain their strength during the spacewalks," said Yang.(Cover via CCTVPlus)