An Evaluation of Options to Satisfy Space Station EVA Requirements

The Space Station mission requirements for initial frequent use of EVA require the modification of the existing Shuttle suit and the Shuttle Extravehicular Mobility Unit (EMU). Options for a Space Station EVA space suit are described and evaluated in light of the Space Station mission human and environmental requirements. The evaluation is made to select the most cost-effective and technologically feasible alternative that meets the requirements. Requirements considered include; (1) the heavy, almost industrial use, of the suit, (2) long operational life, (3) on-orbit maintenance and fit check, (4) high mobility, (5) rapid don/doff, 6) high pressure for zero pre-breath, (7) radiation protection, (8) micrometeoroid/space debris protection, (9) thermal insulation, (10) contamination/ decontamination factors, (11) automatic checkout, and (12) low development and recurring costs.