NASA launches online voting to decide design of next-gen space suit

The suit marks the second in NASA’s Z series, with previous Z-1 suit named one of Time Magazine’s Best Inventions of 2012. The Z-2 suit features a few “milestones” for NASA including the first use of 3D human laser scans and 3D-printed hardware for suit development and sizing.

Now for the first time it is letting the public decide via online voting, what design the cover suit should be for the Z-2.

On its official blog it stated: “After the positive response to the Z-1 suit's visual design we received, we wanted to take the opportunity to provide this new suit with an equally memorable appearance. The cover layer of a prototype suit is important as it serves to protect the suit against abrasion and snags during the rigors of testing.

"With the Z-2, we're looking forward to employing cover layer design elements never used in a spacesuit before. The designs shown were produced in collaboration with ILC, the primary suit vendor and Philadelphia University. The designs were created with the intent to protect the suit and to highlight certain mobility features to aid suit testing. To take it a step further, we are leaving it up you, the public, to choose which of three candidates will be built.”

Voting closes on 15 April and NASA expects to have a fully built Z-2 suit by November 2014.

According to NBC News NASA will take questions on the designs on Wednesday (26 March) via Reddit.

Biometry

This design draws from an environment which has many parallels with the "harshness" of space - oceans, according to NASA. It has been created to mirror the bioluminescent qualities of certain aquatic creatures found at significant depths - reflecting the skins of some of the earth's toughest creatures.

Technology

"Technology" pays homage to spacesuit achievements of the past while incorporating subtle elements of the future. By using Luminex wire and light-emitting patches, this design puts a new spin on spacewalking standards such as ways to identify crew members, says NASA.

Trends in Society

"Trends in Society" is based off of just that: being reflective of what every day clothes may look like in the not too distant future. This suit uses electroluminescent wire and a bright color scheme to mimic the appearance of sportswear and the emerging world of wearable technologies, according to NASA.