Extravehicular Activities, or EVAs, are the quintessential symbol of human space exploration. Also known as “Spacewalks”, EVAs are when astronauts venture into inhospitable environments outside their spacecraft. Whether floating in outer space and tethered to their spacecraft or walking on the moon, an EVA is no small venture.
GEMINI 4
On June 3, 1965, astronaut Ed White became the first American to explore outside of his spacecraft, the Gemini capsule. While he was tethered to the Gemini, he used a hand-held oxygen jet gun to propel himself out to the end of his tether and back again 3 times. I’m not sure I am that brave.
The Importance Of A Good Suit
Because outer space is such a harsh environment, EVAs require a good suit. A space suit must act like a personal spacecraft. Not only does it need air pressure, protection, and communication, but it needs to be comfortable. While an astronaut is performing an EVA, the suit needs to provide mobility and be able to carry tools so work can be done either on the spacecraft or on a planetary surface. (source)
Raymond Loewy
From 1967 to 1973 Loewy performed his “most important and gratifying” work with NASA as a habitability consultant. His designs helped improve the conditions of space flight and life in orbit for astronauts. Most noteworthy, NASA’s head of the Office of Manned Space Flight, George Mueller, commented that Loewy’s efforts had “provided the foundation for man’s next great step – an expedition to the planets.” (source)
Concepts as Art: EVA
Artists in the 1900s drew out their design ideas for presentation, much like today’s artists conceptualize on computers. When Loewy’s designs became famous as real-life applications, these drawings became valuable themselves. We have several copies of the EVA concept, each signed and approved by Loewy himself. Above all, this is a beautiful reminder of what is possible when innovation and gumption come together. Visit the EVA product page to purchase your own Loewy design today!
