How do engineers design the interfaces for future lunar and Martian explorers?

Space · Published 12 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: As NASA prepares for the Artemis campaign, engineers are working to ensure astronauts can survive the intense demands of surface exploration. From designing augmented reality displays to discussing the mechanics of spacewalks, the next generation of spaceflight technology is being shaped by both experts and students.

To prepare for human missions to Mars and scientific discovery on the Moon, NASA is actively developing technologies to ensure the successful completion of exploration missions. Central to this initiative is the NASA Spacesuit User Interface Technologies for Students (SUITS) competition. This initiative invites college students and university students from across the country to design and create information displays for spacesuits using augmented reality environments. This specific design challenge focuses on creating user interface solutions for future spaceflight needs. Participants aim to solve complex problems through these immersive digital environments.

These interface solutions are critical because crewmembers on spacewalks face elevated demands when exploring planetary surfaces. Engineers must develop sophisticated technologies to manage these environments, covering everything from vehicle design to the complexities of lunar surface operations. This work is part of a broader effort to revolutionize the human spaceflight experience as humanity pushes further into deep space. These advancements are vital as crewmembers encounter heightened requirements during planetary surface missions. Such innovation is essential for the safety and success of future explorers.

Beyond student challenges, NASA maintains deep technical knowledge through programs like the NESC Academy and NASA Talks. These platforms host experts and subject matter experts to discuss essential elements of spaceflight, such as Intravehicular Activity (IVA) and Extravehicular Activity (EVA) spacesuits. By capturing and transferring this technical information, NASA ensures that critical knowledge remains accessible for the professional development of the community and the support of ongoing missions. These educational series feature various specialists discussing technical topics of interest. Such content is available to both the internal NASA community and the general public.

General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.

Intellect Plus is a visual educational discovery platform for exploring fascinating facts and ideas. Brain Food, Not Brain Rot. What is Intellect Plus?

Related

• How NASA uses virtual and augmented reality to design and share space missions
• Beyond the Moon: How NASA’s Engineering Challenges Transform Life on Earth
• Why NASA's next lunar spacesuit is an engineering masterpiece
• Private citizens are now testing next-generation space suits in the vacuum of orbit
• How NASA connects students to the front lines of space exploration
• Can robots extend the lifespan of satellites through orbital refueling?
• How astronauts prepare for the high-stakes transition from orbit back to Earth
• How printing human tissue in orbit prepares us for Mars
• How a lightweight carbon fiber pallet revolutionized Hubble's servicing missions
• How NASA saved Hubble's most vital camera after a sudden electronic failure
• The ISS provides a front-row seat to Earth's electric secrets
• The cloud super-engines that power the world's most intense hurricanes

More in Space · Latest · A–Z · All topics