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Decathlon Races to Develop Astronaut Suit with French Space Consortium
PARIS – Sporting goods retailer Decathlon is partnering with a French consortium to design and build a new astronaut suit, aiming for a “ground demonstrator” prototype by 2026-2027. The unusual collaboration, spurred by a challenge to rapidly prototype a functional space suit, could position a French manufacturer to supply suits for future manned spaceflights.
The project began with a specific request: “We asked them to invent an astronaut suit to put on in two minutes,” explained Sébastien Barde, representing the consortium. This focus on speed and ease of use distinguishes the effort, which prioritizes ergonomics and rapid deployment alongside the complex life-support systems required for space travel. The initiative represents a significant investment in France’s space capabilities and a novel approach to astronaut suit development, traditionally dominated by established aerospace companies.
Currently, the consortium is focused on validating the suit’s ergonomics, with plans to integrate sensors, helmet mechanics, and oxygen supply systems in subsequent phases. If successful,the suit could be incorporated into a European-built cargo ship designed for manned missions,offering a potential pathway for French industry into the lucrative space sector.
“The process is much longer than a classic design as there are several partners,” noted Sébastien Haquet, highlighting the complexities of coordinating multiple stakeholders. While Decathlon typically develops sports products in 18 months, innovations like their EasyBreath diving mask required five years of research and development. despite the extended timeline, the project marks a pivotal step toward a future where astronauts might wear a suit bearing the Decathlon brand.
