The Evolution and Technology of Space Suits

The first space suit was introduced with Vostok 1 in 1961, worn by Yuri Gagarin. It was a modified version of a pilot's pressure suit, designed to maintain atmospheric pressure in the vacuum of space.

Modern space suits consist of multiple layers. An inner comfort layer, middle pressure layer, and outer thermal micrometeoroid garment protect astronauts from extreme temperatures, micrometeoroids, and provide mobility.

Pressure suits simulate Earth's atmosphere, providing necessary oxygen and pressure. They're crucial during a depressurization event, sustaining life and preventing a condition known as 'the bends'.

Space suits use a Liquid Cooling and Ventilation Garment with tubes carrying water to remove excess body heat, maintaining a stable temperature regardless of whether the astronaut is in direct sunlight or shadow.

Bearing joints in the suit's design enable mobility. Recent developments include 'active materials' like shape-memory alloys, potentially reducing the need for bulky bearings and improving movement.

The Primary Life Support System (PLSS) backpack provides oxygen, power, carbon dioxide removal, and communication systems. It's essentially a portable life-sustaining environment for astronauts.

NASA's next-generation suits aim for Mars' surface. These will offer enhanced mobility for difficult terrain and improved dust tolerance, ensuring long-term durability in harsher conditions beyond the moon.

Apollo 11 suits were left on the moon to save weight for lunar samples.