Spacesuit Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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spacesuit
[ˈspeɪsˌsuːt ]
Definition
astronaut gear
A spacesuit is a tailored garment designed to keep a human alive in the harsh environment of outer space. It provides life support, mobility, and protection from extreme temperatures, radiation, and micrometeoroids. Spacesuits are equipped with a helmet, gloves, boots, and a life support system that supplies oxygen and removes carbon dioxide. Generally used during spacewalks, they are crucial for astronauts performing repairs or conducting experiments outside their spacecraft.
Synonyms
extravehicular mobility unit, space gear, space suit.
Examples of usage
- The astronaut donned his spacesuit before the mission.
- Spacesuits allow astronauts to operate in the vacuum of space.
- She inspected her spacesuit for any signs of damage.
- The design of the spacesuit has evolved over the years.
Translations
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Origin of 'spacesuit'
The term 'spacesuit' was first introduced in the early 1950s during the development of human spaceflight programs, notably the Project Mercury and Project Gemini missions by NASA. The concept evolved significantly from the prototype garments used by early astronauts, which were simply protective suits designed for high-altitude flight. By the 1960s, with the launch of the Apollo program, the design of spacesuits became more sophisticated, incorporating multiple layers for insulation, pressure retention, and protection against the outer space environment. In particular, the Apollo lunar spacesuit, known as the A7L, was developed to withstand the extreme conditions of the Moon's surface, including its vacuum, temperature fluctuations, and radiation exposure. Over the decades, spacesuit technology has continued to advance, resulting in modern designs that prioritize astronaut safety and functionality while allowing for a greater range of movement and usability in complex tasks. Today, spacesuits are an essential element of space exploration, reflecting both technological innovation and the unique challenges posed by the cosmos.