KBR and Axiom Space Successfully Test Next-Generation Spacesuit in Critical Step Toward Returning to the Moon

Core Insights - KBR and Axiom Space have successfully completed the first uncrewed thermal vacuum test of the AxEMU Pressure Garment, which is intended for the Artemis III mission, marking a significant milestone in human space exploration [1][2][3] Company and Industry Summary - The AxEMU spacesuit is designed to support astronauts during the Artemis III mission, the first crewed lunar landing in over 50 years, and the test evaluated its thermal performance and advanced materials [1][2] - This test is part of a series of increasingly complex evaluations leading to the suit qualification phase with NASA, with over 700 hours of crewed pressurized time already achieved [2][5] - KBR's Aerospace Environment Protection Laboratory (AEPL) in San Antonio, Texas, conducted the test, which is historically significant as it is the same facility where Apollo astronauts trained [3][4] - The AxEMU is currently in the critical design phase, and the successful test provided data to inform its performance and readiness for operational use on the lunar surface [5][6] - KBR's role in this project is part of the Exploration Extravehicular Activity Services (xEVAS) contract, aimed at developing a next-generation spacesuit that is versatile, reliable, and adaptable for future space exploration missions [5][6]