Axiom Space and Italian fashion label Prada have unveiled the first images of their moon suit for NASA’s Artemis III space program, marking an unprecedented turning point for the luxury industry. Behind this intergalactic collaboration lies a well-honed brand strategy, combining cutting-edge innovation with luxury aesthetics, and reflecting a growing trend where luxury fashion joins forces with the most futuristic projects.
Presented on October 16 at the International Astronautical Congress organized by the International Astronautical Federation, the AxEMU (Axiom Extravehicular Mobility Unit) spacesuit is the result of an exceptional collaboration between international technology leaders and Prada, experts in textile innovation.
It had been 50 years since Western astronauts had returned to the moon.
Creating a new era
Axiom Space, an American company founded in 2016 by the former head of the International Space Station program (2005 to 2015) and specialized in astronautics and space flight, is preparing in style for NASA’s new mission, Artemis III. The aim of this mission is to sign the return of Western astronauts to the moon by 2026. The spacesuit, developed in collaboration with Milan-based luxury fashion house Prada, can in many ways be compared to an autonomous mini-vessel, capable of protecting the astronaut from external dangers while providing vital resources such as air and water.
For this collection, Prada wanted to create a suit capable of withstanding the extreme cold of the lunar south pole (down to -14 degrees), where the lunar landing is to take place. Evolutive, modular and adaptable, the suit is designed for missions on the lunar surface as well as in low-Earth orbit, with a built-in diagnostic system offering eight hours of autonomy, as well as integrated HD cameras and4G/LTE communications. During their trip to the Moon, astronauts will have to wear this suit for long periods. It was therefore essential to design a suit that offered both protection and comfort.
A well-honed marketing strategy
Create your free account I create my account Don’t miss out on the latest luxury business news.
To continue reading this article, create a free account or log in.
Read also > [Luxus Magazine] Rasmus Munk’s gourmet meal on the edge of space
Featured Photo: © Prada
