The Artemis program's lunar missions will venture into harsh polar regions, necessitating advanced technology and design to protect astronauts from extreme temperatures. Unlike Apollo's equatorial missions, Artemis faces a frigid environment reaching -369°F, making Apollo-era gear insufficient for prolonged exploration. Researchers at the University of North Dakota are advancing biomechanical studies on how severe conditions affect human movement to aid astronaut safety. The development of new lunar boots is crucial, incorporating rigid thermal plates to retain warmth and address the unique challenges posed by the lunar south pole's climate.
For the Artemis program astronauts, walking on the Moon will require new ways of thinking, the latest technology, and innovative approaches to improve boot and spacesuit design.
In contrast, the Artemis missions are designed to take astronauts to the Moon's extreme polar regions, where temperatures can reach -369 degrees Fahrenheit (-223 degrees Celsius).
The current iteration of the lunar boot uses a rigid thermal plate, which is typically integrated into the sole of the boot, necessary for the unique conditions at the lunar south pole.
Our research explores the effects of extreme environments on human movement patterns and gait, and our lab conducts research that we hope will one day help astronauts explore the Moon.
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