Only 568 humans have experienced the splendor and dangers of space, but Virgin Galactic’s future explorers will have cutting-edge new garments to take on the harsh environment.
The Richard Branson-founded venture on Thursday announced a partnership with Under Armour, a popular athletic clothing and footwear company, to develop next-generation space apparel.
Serving as “Technical Spacewear Partner,” Under Armour will design custom space suits and footwear for Virgin Galactic passengers and pilots, according to a release.
Under Armour will also develop its own astronaut performance training program –focusing on enhancing mobility, strength, fitness, nutrition and sleep – to better prepare astronauts for space travel.
Virgin Galactic’s team at Spaceport America in New Mexico will also receive new uniforms courtesy of Under Armour. Each uniform is specifically designed to fit specific roles at the company – engineering, mission control, astronaut training, and so on.
Last December, the company sent two pilots to the edge of space 50 miles above Earth. Virgin Galactic plans on being the first to launch space tourists, and paying customers have already reserved seats on SpaceShipTwo.
