Jul 22, 2023: What are moonboots? Why is this innovation important? What will the next footprints on the Moon look like?
The moonboots worn by astronauts on the Artemis missions will serve to protect them from challenging terrain and extreme temperatures on the lunar surface. However, their most iconic role is leaving behind footprints. These distinct prints, like those made by astronaut Buzz Aldrin, are a powerful symbol of human achievement.
Over the years, 12 astronauts left hundreds of footprints on the Moon during missions from 1969 to 1972. Remarkably, these prints still exist today, as there is no wind or rain on the Moon to ruin/erode them. They will likely remain for millions of years to come.
Moonboots- boots/shoes, specifically designed for walking on the surface of the Moon
Buzz Aldrin- the second person to walk on the Moon after mission commander Neil Armstrong.
NASA is getting ready to send a new group of astronauts to the Moon's South Pole, and they will leave their own footprints on the lunar surface.
These boots will be different from the ones worn by the Apollo astronauts 50 years ago. NASA and its partners have spent years developing and refining the materials for these new moonboots.
Why is this innovation crucial?
When the four astronauts land on the Moon in 2024 with the Artemis Programme, their boots will need to perform better to keep them safe and comfortable. These boots will have to protect the astronauts in extremely cold temperatures as low as -225°C (-373°F) and provide stability on the rough terrain of the lunar South Pole.
Why are NASA’s moon missions named “Artemis”?
Artemis is the Greek goddess of the Moon and Apollo's twin sister, inspired by the name of the Apollo mission that aims to return humans to the Moon. The crewed spacecraft for this mission is called Orion, which is also the name of a famous constellation in the sky. In Classical mythology, Orion is known as Artemis' hunting companion. The mission's names pay tribute to these mythological connections.
NASA’s plan includes three Artemis missions: Artemis 1, an uncrewed test flight that already circled the Moon in December 2022; Artemis 2, a crewed flight that will take astronauts farther into space than ever before, beyond the Moon; and Artemis 3, which will land the first female astronaut and the first astronaut of colour on the Moon. This mission will involve spending a week conducting scientific studies on the lunar surface.
The ultimate goal is to establish a long-term presence on the Moon for science and exploration through the Artemis program.
Why does NASA want to send astronauts to the south pole of the moon?
The agency has its sights set on a place no humans have ever gone before: the lunar South Pole. Water is vital for long-term exploration, and that's why NASA plans to send astronauts to the Moon's South Pole by 2024. It's an essential resource for human missions, as it can be used for drinking, cooling equipment, breathing, and making rocket fuel for future missions in space. By learning from the Moon and using its resources, NASA will gain valuable experience to prepare for sending astronauts to Mars.
The aesthetics matter too-
Engineers are not only using innovative materials and technologies for the new moonboots, but they are also focusing on creating iconic and recognizable footprints on the Moon's surface. The soles of these boots must provide good grip on various surfaces, from the Moon's rocky terrain to metal surfaces like vehicles and rovers. Functionality is crucial, ensuring the boots are durable and resistant to wear and tear.
However, looks are also important because the footprints left by astronauts have become iconic images associated with Moon exploration.
Axiom Space, a commercial space company, is in charge of designing the spacesuits for the Artemis missions. The exact design of the boots has not been made public yet, but research and early tests have given some insights. The biggest challenge will be the extreme temperatures at the Moon's South Pole, it can get as cold as -373F (-225C) or even hotter than 150F (65C) in the sunlight.
The new spacesuit, called AxEMU, is designed to withstand the temperature extremes using advanced materials not available during the Apollo missions.
A New Era
While keeping the final design a secret, plans are underway to incorporate a logo or imagery symbolising the significance of returning to the Moon. The new footprints on the Moon will be as important as the last, signifying a new era in space exploration. The Moon will not only be a destination but also a stepping stone for further manned missions in the Solar System, including Mars. Working on something that will leave an iconic mark on another world brings a sense of responsibility and pride to the team. It represents the efforts of all involved in the missions, from testing rockets and capsules to successfully landing on the lunar surface.