kwebb@UTEXAS-11@sri-unix (12/03/82)
The space suit discussion has been very interesting so far. I'm surprised that Jerry Pournelle hasn't contributed since he used to design spacesuits, according to an article he wrote (called "About Those Brass Brassieres", from Destinies, Vol.2, No.3, Summer 1980). He refers to NASA Report CR-1892, "Development of a Space Activity Suit" by James Annis and Paul Webb, published in 1971. The SAS consists of a tight-fitting porous garment with a ring seal around the neck and a bubble helmet. The garment is for support; skin holds in the air and sweat provides the air-conditioning. An outer Thermal- Micrometeorite Protective Garment, also porous, would also be worn. During the study, several suits were build and tested in vacuum chambers; they proved more comfortable than standard space suits. Nasa has apparently done nothing with the suits since. For more information, see the Destinies article, or ask Jerry, or write for the report. Kirk Webb, KWEBB at UTEXAS-11 -------