HOW DO 'SPACE SUITS' WORK?




The conditions in outer space vary greatly from that on Earth, hence it is vital to create space suits that recreate an Earth-like atmosphere in space and provide protection. A space suit has to create enough pressure to help keep the body fluids in liquid state. For the purpose, it is built like an inflated balloon restricted by Neoprene-coated fibres. Since it is very difficult to move if your body is placed within a balloon, special joints are provided within the fabric of the suit to ensure the mobility. Outer space has no oxygen, therefore space suits get the oxygen from either from the spacecrafts through umbilical cords or the backpack strapped on the suit. Lithium hydroxide cansisters are attached to the space suit to help drain out excessive carbon dioxide. To combat the extreme changes in temperature, the space suit is heavily insulated with the layers of fabric. Additionally reflective layers are added to keep away sunlight and solar rays.
These multiple layers also keep away rock and dust particles that move at high speed in space. Fans are attached to help cool the air when the astronaut sweats. Helmets with lights are provided at the top. Microphones, headsets and radio transmitters are attached on the backpack for communication.

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