When NASA returns to the moon in the future, astronauts will perform their missions under the protection of a high-tech "fitting inner layer" jointly created by Axim Space and fashion brand Prada. This base layer, called the Liquid Cooling and Ventilation Garment (LCVG), will accompany astronauts to the moon during the Artemis IV mission, expected to be in 2028.
LCVG is the most critical bottom layer of clothing inside the new generation Axiom Extravehicular Mobility Unit (AxEMU). Astronauts need to put on this layer before putting on the outer space suit. A large number of fine tubes are embedded inside the suit, which quickly removes the body surface heat of the astronauts through circulating cold water, ensuring that a comfortable body temperature is maintained during walking on the moon and extravehicular activities. Unlike previous cooling suits, the new design is equipped with a redundant backup system. Once the main cooling circuit fails, the backup system can take over, improving overall safety.
In addition to cooling functions, LCVG also integrates key ventilation components. Its internal ventilation system will continuously deliver fresh oxygen to the AxEMU helmet, and guide the carbon dioxide exhaled by astronauts to the carbon adsorption device for purification and recycling, thus forming a closed and efficient life support subsystem.
The cooperation between Axim Space Company and Prada is not the first time NASA has touched upon the cross-border design of "high technology + high fashion". Previously, NASA had funded the "BioSuit" concept project led by MIT professor Dava Newman and collaborated with architect Guillermo Trotti, which introduced advanced materials and cutting-edge structural design into space suit research and development.
Axim Space and Prada have recently officially demonstrated the LCVG designed for NASA. Several pictures of the front and back of the garment and key hardware details were displayed on site, highlighting its complex pipeline layout and modular hardware units. As the Artemis moon landing program advances, this type of "high-tech inner suit" that combines functionality, comfort and design is expected to become the new normal for astronaut equipment in future deep space exploration.