Prada partners with Axiom Space to produce NASA’s new spacesuits for the Artemis III lunar mission
Fashion is about to reach new heights—quite literally. In a historic first, the inaugural woman to step onto the Moon will be wearing a Prada-designed spacesuit, blending the worlds of high-end fashion and space exploration.
This next-generation suit, officially named the “Axiom Extravehicular Mobility Unit (AxEMU),” was revealed at the 75th edition of the International Astronautical Congress in Milan—a fitting stage for such a ground-breaking collaboration between Prada and Axiom Space, a leading company in the space industry and creator of the first commercial orbital station.
The “Axiom Extravehicular Mobility Unit (AxEMU),” a spacesuit created by Prada and Axiom Space. Courtesy of Prada
NASA’s Artemis III mission, scheduled for the latter half of 2026, will mark the first crewed Moon landing since Apollo 17 in 1972. This historic mission will also mark the first time a woman and a person of colour step onto the lunar surface, and it will include the first exploration of the Moon’s south pole. Such a significant event requires a spacesuit as extraordinary as the mission itself, and this new design represents a striking departure from the bulky spacewear of the past.
Prada, Fly Us to the Moon
Prada has partnered with Axiom Space to bring a fresh perspective to an essential piece of astronaut gear. The spacesuit they have created is engineered to withstand the harsh conditions of the lunar surface while offering comfort and flexibility for optimal astronaut performance.
Matt Ondler, President of Axiom Space, described the collaboration as a “foundational model for cross-industry partnership.” He noted that combining Prada’s design expertise with Axiom’s capabilities has opened new possibilities, pushing the boundaries of “what is possible in commercial space.”
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Although this spacesuit is associated with a high-fashion label, it won’t feature any overt Prada branding. Instead, insiders might spot a subtle design touch: red stripes on the suit, which, according to Vogue, are reminiscent of Prada’s Linea Rossa collection.
Where Fashion Meets Engineering, Science, and Art
Prada’s expertise in high-performance materials and advanced sewing techniques has enabled its engineers to collaborate closely with Axiom Space to create a suit that is both highly functional and visually striking. Made from white materials that reflect heat and protect astronauts from extreme temperatures and lunar dust, the suit has undergone rigorous testing to meet the demanding conditions of space travel. It is built to endure temperatures well below freezing for up to two hours and to facilitate spacewalks lasting up to eight hours.
The “Axiom Extravehicular Mobility Unit (AxEMU),” a spacesuit created by Prada and Axiom Space. Courtesy of Prada
Underneath its sleek exterior, the suit is equipped with state-of-the-art features that enhance the astronauts’ ability to explore the lunar surface, including advanced life support systems, pressure garments, and other vital components.
Lorenzo Bertelli, Prada Group’s Chief Marketing Officer and Head of Corporate Social Responsibility, stated that the company has developed “tailor-made solutions” that not only help astronauts perform better but also set a new benchmark for the future of space exploration.
What You Need to Know About the Artemis III Lunar Mission
NASA’s Artemis III mission, slated to be the first human Moon landing since 1972, marks a great return to the lunar surface. The mission will not only bring humans back to the Moon but will also make history by including the first woman and the first person of colour to walk on its surface.
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The landing site is expected to be near the lunar South Pole, a region of interest due to its potential resources and unexplored terrain. NASA Administrator Bill Nelson described the mission as part of a broader effort to explore the Moon “in a way we never have before.”
The significance of this mission extends beyond scientific discovery—it represents progress in gender and racial equality. Additionally, the inclusion of a Prada-designed spacesuit marks a new era in how we envision fashion in space.
Looking Ahead: Prada’s Vision for the Future of Spacewear and Space Travel
During this iconic Moon landing, Prada’s involvement in the Artemis III mission also reveals the luxury fashion house’s vision for the future of space exploration. Lorenzo Bertelli mentioned that Prada is already exploring new weaving techniques using high-performance fibres and near-seamless production methods, which could significantly enhance future spacesuits. These advancements may lead to more durable, flexible, and comfortable spacewear, setting a new standard for astronaut apparel as humanity ventures further into space.
Moreover, this partnership could be seen as part of a broader trend towards the commercialisation of outer space. Once the exclusive domain of astronauts, space is now evolving into a frontier for private enterprise, and companies like Prada may play a role in defining this new era.
As reported by CNN, Bertelli told journalists in Milan, “Today, anyone with deep pockets can go to space... Soon it will become more affordable, and people will be able to go to the Moon. So, I believe we are only at the start of a new era.”
What’s Next When Moonwalkers Wear Prada
The traditional image of a bulky and cumbersome spacesuit has been deeply ingrained in our collective memory since the Apollo missions. However, Prada and Axiom Space are breaking that mould. By introducing high fashion into the realm of space exploration, they are signalling a shift in our approach to space travel. It’s no longer just about surviving in space—it’s about thriving. Through this partnership, astronauts are not only explorers but also ambassadors for the potential that arises when fashion and technology converge.
Prada’s spacesuit stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation. As we push the boundaries of space exploration, we are also pushing the boundaries of creativity and design. The Artemis III mission will be a historic event for many reasons, but thanks to Prada, it will also be a moment where fashion meets the final frontier.
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As we look to the future of space exploration, one thing is clear: the next generation of astronauts won’t just be pioneers of science—they will also be style icons.
Angelo Ruggeri
Journalist, Master’s Programme Tutor & Fashion Styling Course Leader, Milan