For over 25 years, astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS) have relied on off-the-rack clothing during their missions in Earth orbit. Now, a company preparing to launch the world’s first commercial space station is taking a more tailored approach to crew attire.
Vast, a space infrastructure company, has unveiled its astronaut flight suit—a two-piece outfit designed for wear both in space and on Earth. In addition, the company has certified a custom Swiss wristwatch for use aboard its upcoming Haven-1 space station.
From Generic to Custom: A New Era in Space Fashion
The announcement reflects a broader shift in how astronauts dress during extended stays in orbit. According to Drew Feustel, Vast’s lead astronaut and a former NASA mission specialist who logged 225 days in space, daily wear of flight suits has declined over the past two decades aboard the ISS.
"Over the last two decades on the International Space Station, astronauts have moved away from wearing flight suits every day. The environment has become safer and more like how we work on Earth."
Feustel’s statement underscores the evolving nature of life in space, where improved safety and operational conditions have reduced the need for constant flight suit use.
Haven-1: The World’s First Commercial Space Station
Vast’s Haven-1 is slated to become the first commercial space station in orbit. The station is designed to support both scientific research and commercial activities, with crewed missions planned for the near future. The custom flight suits and certified wristwatch are part of Vast’s broader strategy to enhance crew comfort, functionality, and branding for its orbital outpost.
Key Features of the Vast Astronaut Flight Suit
- Two-Piece Design: The suit is engineered for versatility, allowing astronauts to wear it both in microgravity and on Earth.
- Custom Fit: Tailored to individual crew members for optimal comfort and mobility.
- Functional Materials: Designed to meet the demands of both space and terrestrial environments.
Certified Swiss Wristwatch for Space Missions
In addition to the flight suits, Vast has certified a custom Swiss wristwatch for use aboard Haven-1. The timepiece is designed to withstand the unique challenges of space, including microgravity, radiation, and extreme temperature fluctuations. Swiss-made precision ensures reliability in the harsh conditions of low Earth orbit.
The introduction of custom flight suits and a certified wristwatch highlights Vast’s commitment to redefining the standards of crew attire for commercial spaceflight. As the space industry evolves, these innovations may set a new precedent for how astronauts dress and operate in orbit.