The astronaut wears Prada as Axiom unveils new spacesuit

Prada, long the trademark style statement of the high and mighty, is all set to soar even higher - quite literally.

NASA's Artemis 3 mission to the lunar South Pole will feature astronauts in Prada-designed suits, according to an announcement on Wednesday. Axiom Space, a private space company, has partnered with the Italian luxury brand to create these suits and spacewalk systems for the mission scheduled for September 2026.

The exterior of the suit will be predominantly white, similar to those worn during the Apollo missions over 50 years ago, but with added grey and red stripes inspired by Italy's Luna Rossa America's Cup boat, also sponsored by Prada.

Matt Ondler, Axiom Space president, said at a press event in Milan, “They will go in places that are incredibly hazardous, extreme environments." He noted the suits needed "extreme engineering" and "fantastic manufacturing capability."

The mission aims to explore the lunar South Pole's water craters, some of the universe's coldest spots. The suit needs to withstand temperatures ranging from 54 degrees Celsius in the sun to minus 203 degrees Celsius in shadowed areas.

The suits are designed to offer comfort and protection from radiation, external pressure, and provide power and oxygen for up to eight-hour moonwalks. Russell Ralston, Axiom spacesuit program manager, said, "We've blended engineering, science and art to produce the ultimate garments for future moonwalkers, ensuring that astronauts can perform their tasks and missions in safety and comfort."

The boots of the suits were particularly challenging to design for insulation and durability. Lorenzo Bertelli, Prada’s marketing manager, stated that the materials used remain confidential.

The Artemis 3 mission will also see the first woman landing on the moon, and the suits will be unisex, adaptable to different sizes.