China is gearing up for its first manned moon landing, and the country’s space agency has just revealed its new spacesuit designed for the mission. After four years of research and development, the lightweight suit is specially built to protect astronauts during their mission.
The lunar environment is harsh, temperatures can swing over 300 degrees on the surface. The moon also lacks an atmosphere, meaning astronauts face intense pressure and solar radiation.
The new suit is said to allow astronauts to walk, climb, drive and even conduct research on the lunar surface. It’s crafted from advanced fabric that shields against heat and lunar dust, and is equipped with protective gloves for “dexterity” and flexible knee joints for movement in low gravity.
The suit also features a panoramic antiglare visor, integrated with communication systems. There’s even a video camera, allowing for clear communication and documentation of their mission.
Beyond functionality, the suit draws design inspiration from Chinese culture. The upper part features red straps that symbolize a balance of strength and grace, much like traditional Chinese armor.
The legs have red stripes representing fiery rocket tails during liftoff. It has a nod to national pride as well, and the China Manned Space Agency has launched a public campaign to name the suit, inviting suggestions that blend traditional culture with modern technology.
This announcement comes as China pushes forward with plans to send astronauts to the moon by the end of the decade. Their mission will involve two Long March 10 rocket launches to carry astronauts and a lunar lander into orbit.
Meanwhile, the U.S. is also aiming to send astronauts back to the moon through NASA’s Artemis program, potentially as soon as 2026, with the goal of establishing a long-term human presence on the lunar surface, which may help prepare for missions to Mars.
