Technology and IP

The M33 EVA suits patented nano-tube cooling and ventilation system is being designed to heat and cool the astronaut’s body by electrically charging intelligent textiles. Extreme temperature protection in this suit ranges from -120 degrees C to 120 degrees C.

The M33’s outer layer will be made of a puncture-resistant material that protects astronauts from micrometeoroids and other abrasive air borne particles. The material, known as NüwaBlend®, was specifically developed for long term use on the demanding surface environment of Mars. NüwaBlend® is a combination of multi weave, intelligent and reactive chemically coated fabrics and smart materials. NüwaBlend® limits exposure to both UV and cosmic rays, temperature fluctuations and abrasive particles traveling at high speed. It also has the capacity to be programmed to react to changing environmental and wearer conditions in real time, allowing heat and moisture to be added or removed from both inside and outside the suit. A series of Super Hepa Filters embedded in the outer layer of the material maintain the space protocols for ‘Forward and Backward Contamination’.

NüwaBlend® is still in the early stages of development. Planetary Protech is collaborating with a number of smart textile manufacturers in the US and Europe. The first versions of the material should be ready for testing in late 2023.