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KBR and Axiom Space Successfully Test Next-Generation Spacesuit in Critical Step Toward Returning to the Moon
Globenewswire· 2025-11-20 11:00
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]
KBR and Axiom Space Successfully Complete Initial Crewed Spacesuit Tests in NASA's Neutral Buoyancy Lab
Globenewswire· 2025-08-12 10:00
Core Insights - KBR and Axiom Space have successfully completed three crewed underwater tests of the Axiom Extravehicular Mobility Unit (AxEMU) at NASA's Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory, marking a significant milestone in support of NASA's lunar return efforts [1][2] - The AxEMU is being developed for NASA's Artemis III mission, with tests aimed at evaluating the suit's integrity in a simulated weightlessness environment, demonstrating that the suit is ready for advanced evaluations and future missions [2][3] Company Contributions - KBR's leadership in supporting human spaceflight and next-generation EVA systems is highlighted, showcasing its technical depth and operational excellence in collaboration with NASA and Axiom Space [3] - The successful tests are part of KBR's Exploration Extravehicular Activity Services (xEVAS) contract, which focuses on the evaluation of the next-generation spacesuit designed for versatility and reliability in space exploration [3][4] Industry Context - Axiom Space emphasizes the importance of KBR's expertise in spacesuit innovation, which enhances the AxEMU's capabilities for astronauts to operate in the challenging lunar environment [4] - The collaboration between KBR and Axiom Space is positioned as a key support mechanism for the next era of human space exploration, facilitating astronaut training and mission execution [4]
KBR Supports Axiom Mission 4 Launch to International Space Station with Embedded Flight Controllers and Astronaut Training
GlobeNewswire News Room· 2025-07-02 10:00
Core Insights - KBR successfully supported the launch and execution of Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), marking a significant milestone in the company's role in commercial spaceflight [1][4] - The company provided comprehensive training for the Ax-4 crew, enabling them to live and work aboard the International Space Station for two weeks [2] - KBR embedded four flight controllers into Axiom Space's mission control center for real-time operational support during the mission [3] Company Contributions - KBR has supported four private astronaut missions through its agreements with NASA, leveraging its experience from previous contracts [2] - The company has a long history of working with U.S. astronauts since 1968, covering various aspects of space missions [5] - KBR's President highlighted the company's growing footprint in the private space sector and its reputation as a trusted partner in human spaceflight operations [4] Operational Scope - KBR employs approximately 38,000 people globally and operates in over 29 countries, providing technology and engineering solutions to various clients [6] - The company is committed to delivering consistent results and value-added services to its customers worldwide [6]