Columbia Sportswear announced an expanded scientific partnership with space exploration company Intuitive Machines for its upcoming second lunar mission. This collaboration will see Columbia's proprietary Omni-Heat Infinity and Omni-Shade Sun Deflector technologies integrated into Intuitive Machines' IM-2 lander, Athena. The mission aims to drill into the Moon's south pole to search for lunar ice, an unprecedented endeavor in this extreme environment.
Omni-Heat Infinity, a gold-dot thermal-reflective lining, will be used to insulate the helium tank on Athena, protecting it from temperatures ranging from approximately +250° to -250° Fahrenheit during its journey and lunar operations. This technology was previously used successfully in the IM-1 mission, demonstrating its insulative power and durability in space.
Additionally, Omni-Shade Sun Deflector technology will be integrated into a multilayer insulation blanket covering the top deck of the lander. This material, which uses titanium dioxide reflective dots, will help shield Athena from the sun's extreme heat in space and on the lunar surface, preventing overheating of essential batteries and avionics. This partnership underscores Columbia's commitment to testing its innovations in the most rigorous conditions.
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