Astronauts report that their hands get cold while they are doing extravehicular activity, especially when they are not in sunlight. Two solutions were devised: fingertip heaters in their pressurized gloves and thermal mittens to wear over their gloves. This insulated mitten, designed by ILC, can add some warmth temporarily, but it would be removed for tasks that require finger dexterity. Astronauts tested mittens like this on the STS-63 space shuttle mission in 1995. Over the years, NASA gave the Museum a mitten pair and a variety of spacesuit gloves.
Display Status
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Object Details
Date
1989
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
PERSONAL EQUIPMENT-Handwear
Manufacturer
ILC Dover, Inc.
Dimensions
Clothing: 29.2 x 32.4 x 1.3cm (11 1/2 x 12 3/4 x 1/2 in.)
Materials
HT1-Nomex, Kevlar, Aluminized Kapton, Velcro
Inventory Number
A19970607001
Credit Line
Transferred from NASA, Johnson Space Center.
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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